From the Heart

Chapter III

Matthew had always separated his family and his work, so it was surprising when he requested Bailey's presence on a work-related trip. "Why am I joining you on a work trip?" Bailey asked, slightly uncomfortable. "Well, I thought that this patient was a good candidate for you to help. This patient and his family can't really afford the procedure he needs. I mean, they can pay for most of the procedure; they are a couple of thousand dollars short. I told the family about your Foundation. "Oh...I mean, if they needed the money, I could've sent it with you." "You remember, I wanted you to be careful with who you gave your heart and energy to. I want you to know, be comfortable, and sure about the people you give the money to. This means you have to hear from the patient to make the final financial decision." "Thanks." Bailey enjoyed the car ride. "How did you get involved with this patient?" Bailey asked, hoping for some insight before the meeting. "A couple of years ago, Dr. Ryan called me for a consult. A few days later, I was traveling to Virginia for the consultation and to meet the patient. I've been on this patient's case ever since. The patient's name is Aaron. He's twelve years old. He suffers from the genetic disease, Osteogenesis Imperfecta. It's also known as the Brittle Bone Disease: He has Type IV." The car fell silent.

Dr. Ryan greeted them upon their arrival. The two doctors discussed the case and went to their patient's room. Bailey followed the men. "Hey, Aaron," Dr. Nelson announced. "Hello, Dr. Nelson. Welcome back!" Aaron was cheerful. Bailey had remained outside in the hallway. While in the hallway, Bailey overheard a discussion about doing an operation on the right femur bone. Suddenly, Bailey heard her father say, "I want you to meet someone. She's actually my daughter. Bailey, you can come in." Bailey came in as the men abandoned her. Aaron and Bailey exchanged, "Hi." "What are you doing here?" "I'm here to hang out and get to know you." "Really?!" Aaron was pleasantly surprised. "Yes! So, what do you want to do?" "Play Monopoly!" Aaron directed her to a bookshelf that had the game. "Thank you. I don't have anyone to play with. It's lonely and boring." "Where are your parents?" "At work, they work a lot. They even work most weekends. I only really see them in the mornings before work and evenings. During the nights, I'm usually alone." As they played Monopoly, they continued to small talk. The game lasted a couple of hours. "When is your surgery?" "It's scheduled to be in three days, but I don't know if I'm going to have it." "What?! Your parents don't want you to have the surgery?" "No, my parents want me to have the surgery. They want me healthy. It's me, who doesn't want the surgery. My health is more important to them than going into debt. It bothers me that we'll go into debt. Staying healthy is temporary; I'll break another bone and require another surgery. All I do is suck my parents dry of money. All the hospital bills. I'm the reason that my parents work almost 24/7." Aaron was very hard on himself. "If someone was giving away money; what would you say to that person? Why would you want the money?" Aaron took a moment to ponder before responding. "My parents deserve to feel less weight, pressure, and anything else that makes their life hard. They deserve a break and having time to themselves." Aaron was sentimental. Bailey gave a smile. "That's exactly what I needed to hear. Your parents are a little short in paying the hospital bill, so I want to pay for what they can't." "What?! Are you serious?" Aaron was dumbfounded. "Yes. There's a catch; I only give money to friends." "Thanks, friend!"

Bailey met with her father, Dr. Ryan, and Aaron's parents in a conference room. "I want to help pay for the remaining balance that you two can't pay for this surgery." "We can't take your money, but thank you," Aaron's father replied. "It's not my money; it's no one's money. It's meant to be given to the people who need it." Bailey insisted. "Alright, thank you," Aaron's mother answered, appreciative. The parents had put aside their pride. "We'll pay ever cent back," the father insisted. "There's no need, and if you try, I will not accept it. If you feel an obligation to repay your gift, then donate to my Foundation. Your money will help others in similar situations." Bailey was very adamant. "We will! Thank you! Thank you!" they echoed. Both were showing happiness and relief. Bailey handed over a check. Bailey shook the father's hand and gave the mother a hug. "I have something for you," Dr. Ryan spoke. He pulled out a check and gave it to Bailey. "What you are doing is incredibly selfless and humane. I want to contribute to your Foundation." "$5000, really?" Bailey was stumped. Dr. Ryan gladly nodded. "Thank you!"