Parents.. with different treatment

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A few days later, just as Valerie was beginning to feel some hope about Xander's recovery, the atmosphere in the hospital turned heavy with uncertainty once more. Xander had been doing relatively well, and Valerie had just spoken with Dr. Patel about a possible discharge date in the coming week. But that morning, she noticed that the nurses were more attentive than usual, their whispers low and their expressions grave.

As she sat by Xander's bedside, reading to him, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. When Dr. Patel walked in, her face set in a serious expression, Valerie's heart sank. "Ms. Davis, can we talk for a moment?"

The knot in Valerie's stomach tightened as she nodded, reluctantly stepping away from Xander's side. She felt a mix of dread and apprehension as they moved into the hallway.

"Is it Xander?" Valerie asked, her voice trembling. "What's wrong?"

Dr. Patel took a deep breath, her demeanor somber. "We've received the results from Xander's latest tests, and I need to discuss them with you. Unfortunately, the findings are concerning."

Valerie's heart raced. "What do you mean? Is he... is he going to be okay?"

Dr. Patel looked down for a moment, gathering her thoughts before meeting Valerie's gaze. "Xander's heart defect is more severe than we initially diagnosed. It appears to be impacting his overall health more than we realized. We're now looking at the possibility of surgery sooner than expected, and we need to act quickly."

Valerie felt her breath hitch, a wave of panic washing over her. "Surgery? What kind of surgery? Will he be okay?"

Dr. Patel placed a reassuring hand on Valerie's shoulder. "It's a complex procedure, and while it carries risks, it's essential for his long-term health. I know this is overwhelming, but we have a team of specialists ready to discuss the best approach."

Valerie's mind raced with thoughts of Xander's fragile state and the long road ahead. "When would it happen? How serious is the surgery?"

"We're aiming for within the next few days," Dr. Patel explained. "We want to prepare him as best we can, and we'll be there every step of the way. I understand this is a lot to take in."

As Valerie nodded, her eyes filled with tears. "What about his recovery? Will he be in pain?"

"Recovery can be difficult, but we'll manage his pain and provide support throughout the process," Dr. Patel assured her. "It's crucial that we give him a chance for a healthier future. He's a fighter, and with your support, he'll get through this."

Valerie turned back toward Xander's room, her heart heavy. As she reentered, she found Xander still engrossed in his book, seemingly unaware of the storm brewing outside. But she could see the remnants of worry in his expression as he caught her eye.

"Mom, what did the doctor say?" he asked, his voice innocent yet laced with concern.

Valerie knelt beside his bed, forcing a smile despite the turmoil inside her. "She said you're doing really well, and they're going to help you get better," she replied, her voice shaking slightly. "We just need to do some more tests to make sure everything is okay."

Xander nodded, but she could see the flicker of worry in his eyes. She squeezed his hand tightly, trying to channel strength and reassurance. "I'm here for you, always. We're going to get through this together."

In that moment, she realized how crucial it was to remain strong for Xander, to shield him from the weight of the uncertain road ahead. Despite the unfortunate news, she was determined to fight for her son's health, hoping that the love and support surrounding him would carry them both through the difficult days to come.