Emily Mayfield, part 8: The Diagnosis

The medical bills are staggering. For the first time, Suzanna goes to work outside the home. She manages the kitchen at the boys’ school. Robert takes Emily to the neighbor Mrs. Biddle every morning and picks her up after he gets the boys from school in the afternoon.

George sees what a lack of money means to the family. Their whole world has changed in some subtle and some not-so-subtle ways. He feels guilt about the financial burden because he feels that he was responsible for Alex sneaking out to ride Moon at night. George begins his life of lawyering by keeping his first ‘client’s’ confidentiality and never revealing the source of the fire behind the garage.

Robert does not resent or even consider the changes in his life. He lives so much in his mind; he is an economist, not a philosopher. He is just amazed that he can now spend more time with Suzanna and the kids after he brings everyone home from school each day.

Suzanna is practical. She is, above all else, grateful that Alex is alive, has sight, and is not disfigured—in that order. As for finances, bills are bills and she does what needs to be done to pay the bills.

Alex has had an eye-opener. He was most impressed by the specialists. They were so capable and efficient and adroit. They were the ultimate ‘doers.’ The plastic surgeon spends time with the boy explaining what he has done, what will be happening, and answering the boy’s insightful questions. The surgeon, Dr. Morgenstern, sees in Alex intelligence and a willingness to learn. Alex asks questions about becoming a doctor, and Dr. Morgenstern plants the seeds that will take root in the boy and grow into the respect that will make them peers in the future. Dr. Morgenstern will give the boy odd jobs to keep him around, and he will write a letter for Alex when he applies to medical school.

(continued)