Being Brave

Bella followed the nurse to the exam room. She sat quietly while her blood pressure and heart rate were checked. She even cooperated when her blood was drawn, something she hated and that usually made her sick. But not today. Today she was a fighter. Today, you're going to be brave, she recited in her head.

After the nurse was done, Bella was left alone to wait for the doctor. Alone with her thoughts, which now turned to the man in the waiting room. She wondered if he was seeing the same doctor or if perhaps he was just there with a friend or relative. Maybe he's married and here with his wife, she thought. She then found herself struggling to remember if he was wearing a wedding ring. Not the time or place, Bella, she scolded herself. She was shaken from her inner monologue when the door opened and Dr. Cullen walked in.

"Hello, Isabella. How are you feeling today?" He shook her hand and smiled politely. "Just Bella, please...and I'm as good as can be expected I guess". "Okay, Bella. Well, I've gone over your records. You were diagnosed three months ago, correct?" He examined her while speaking softly. Good bedside manner, she observed. "Yes". He sighed as he leaned on the edge of the table. "To be honest, Bella, I am not entirely sure I can help you. But, I am very willing to try. I just can't make any promises. Is that alright? Are you up for this treatment?" Bella looked down at her hands and thought for a moment. Again, she recited her mantra...be brave. She looked up at Dr. Cullen and nodded once. "I have to try". He then gave her some information on the treatment and went over the side effects of the drug. She got an appointment for the following week and left the building feeling hopeful for the first time in weeks.