11

Perhaps a miracle did happen. The nurse brought good news. “The surgery inside was successful. The patient's vital signs are stable. The most difficult part is over. Now we just have to wait for the heart transplant.” I was almost overcome with joy, as if I could already see Kerwin's recovery. But then, the waiting became unbearably long. The lights in the operating room stayed on, but no further news came. Until the attending physician emerged, his face betraying exhaustion and regret. “Doctor, what about my brother?” He looked at me and sighed. I jumped to my feet, my voice trembling, “Was there a problem with the transplant surgery? Or did a rejection reaction occur?” “I, I checked. If a rejection occurs, there’s another method… you…” The doctor shook his head, cutting me off, “The family of the heart donor… suddenly refused the donation.” “What do you mean?” I was struck speechless, “Refused the donation? How could they refuse at the last minute? Didn’t they