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Later, Dr. Patricia Chen explained privately that Rebecca had experienced a serious medical emergency and was extremely lucky to have survived. The medical team was treating not only her heart condition but also the consequences of medication misuse. Her recovery would require close monitoring, psychological support, and a strong support network.
« She will need constant support, » said Dr. Chen. « Not just medical support, but also emotional support. Does she have family or close friends who can support her? »
I realized I hadn’t known. During our marriage, Rebecca had gradually withdrawn from most people. I had assumed it was part of her development. Now I understood it was linked to her illness and her shame.
I spent that first night in the family waiting room at the hospital, unable to leave despite having no legal reason to stay. We were divorced. She was no longer my responsibility. But this woman lying in bed wasn’t just my ex-wife. She was someone I had loved, someone whose suffering I had failed to perceive when it could have been at its most critical.