Chapter 28 Knowing News About Him
Bianca had been feeling down all morning, maybe because of Michael and Harper.
Olivia noticed Bianca's sadness and spent a good chunk of time comforting her until she finally perked up.
After lunch, Olivia got a call from Daniel. "Hey, can you come to the hospital? We've got an important patient who needs your expertise."
"Sure thing," Olivia replied without a second thought.
She'd been throwing herself into work lately.
With her divorce looming, she needed to save up for herself and Bianca.
After making sure Bianca was with Yara, Olivia headed out.
When she got to the hospital and slipped into her white coat, Daniel personally brought the patient over.
The patient was an elderly man, probably around seventy, sitting in a wheelchair.
Despite looking a bit tired, he had strong features and an upright posture that gave off a vibe of dignity and integrity.
Behind him stood a middle-aged couple, who seemed to be his family.
Daniel introduced them, "This is Mr. Miller. He got injured in the military years ago, which left his right leg paralyzed and his left leg with chronic rheumatic pain. He's seen a bunch of doctors and has been getting treatment to manage the pain, but the recent cold and rainy weather has made the pain in his left leg unbearable."
Olivia nodded, understanding the situation.
No wonder Joseph Miller had such an authoritative presence; he must have held a significant position in the military.
Wasting no time, Olivia stepped forward to examine Joseph's left leg.
After a thorough check, she confirmed Daniel's diagnosis of severe rheumatism.
Before starting the treatment, Olivia gently informed Joseph, "This might be a bit uncomfortable, so hang in there."
Joseph smiled nonchalantly. "Go ahead. I can handle any pain."
Olivia believed him. Given his background, he must have endured countless injuries.
With that, she began the treatment swiftly and skillfully, using a unique method from Medica Vitae Sect, targeting unexpected areas.
Fifteen minutes later, the treatment was complete.
After a couple of minutes, she asked Joseph, "How's your left leg feeling now?"
Joseph's previously furrowed brows relaxed, and he seemed more spirited. He moved his leg slightly, amazed. "The aching, cold, and stabbing pain have significantly lessened. I haven't felt this good in a long time!"
Olivia smiled, not surprised by the results.
The treatment was specifically designed for joint and nerve issues, combined with her custom-made medication.
"That's great to hear," she said, looking at the medical instruments. Then, after a moment of hesitation, she asked, "Would you mind if I take a look at your right leg?"
Joseph's expression darkened slightly. He was about to refuse, but Olivia's sincere demeanor made him nod.
Olivia noticed a fleeting look of despair on his face, likely from numerous failed treatments.
She didn't push further and began a meticulous examination.
After about ten minutes, her expression turned serious. It seemed there was a foreign object in Joseph's right knee, pressing on the nerves, causing the paralysis.
Daniel, noticing her concern, pulled her aside and whispered, "The Miller family only asked for treatment for the left leg. They've always been hesitant about the right leg, and I don't know the specifics. But this issue has been present for decades."
Olivia was silent for a few seconds before looking up at him. "The situation is indeed risky. But what if I told you I could try to treat it?"
Daniel didn't doubt her skills but was apprehensive about the risks.
Joseph's special status meant any complications could bring trouble from the Miller family.
"I advise against it. The risk is too high."
Olivia glanced at Joseph in the room, recalling the fleeting look of despair on his face.
That wasn't the expression of someone who had given up on treatment. He still hoped for recovery.
After a few moments of contemplation, she decided, "I want to ask Mr. Miller for his opinion. His leg has a chance of recovery, and he deserves to make that decision."
Daniel frowned, still worried.
But Olivia's determination made it hard for him to refuse.
Finally, he gave in. "If they say no, don't push it."
Olivia nodded, "Got it."
They went back to the ward.
Seeing them avoid talking about his right leg, Joseph forced a smile. "Doctor, I know my leg's condition. It's okay if it can't be fixed. I'm used to it. No need to be secretive."
He explained that his injury was from a mission years ago, where he got shot, and his comrades sacrificed themselves to save him.
The bullets had damaged his nerves, causing paralysis. Many doctors had deemed the surgery too risky.
His face showed deep sorrow, making him seem ten years older.
"Dad..." The middle-aged couple looked at him with pained expressions.
Moved by his story, Olivia quickly said, "I can treat your leg."
Her words stunned the three of them, as if they had heard something unbelievable.
Joseph was the first to react. "Is that true?"
The couple, less enthusiastic, asked, "How confident are you?"
Olivia hesitated but answered honestly, "No one can guarantee a hundred percent success, especially with such a risky surgery. There's a chance of needing amputation or worse. I estimate a sixty to seventy percent success rate."
Her words dampened their spirits. Sixty to seventy percent still meant a significant risk. They couldn't gamble with Joseph's life.
"Let's stick to conservative treatment," Joseph's son, Jasper Miller, immediately rejected the idea, supported by his wife.
Joseph remained silent, his eyes showing a mix of hope and resignation.
Sixty to seventy percent was higher than previous estimates, but he understood his family's reluctance.
Seeing his dejection, Olivia couldn't bear it.
She added, "With my medication, the success rate could increase to ninety percent."
Her words shocked everyone, including Daniel.
He couldn't understand why Olivia was so insistent on treating Joseph, given their brief acquaintance.
But he trusted Olivia's judgment and didn't interfere.
Olivia waited for the Miller family's response. Jasper and his wife were still hesitant, but Joseph, with a determined look, said, "I want the treatment."
"Dad..." Jasper tried to object, but Joseph interrupted, "I've been a burden for too long. I want to stand on my own again. You know my wish is to salute my fallen comrades standing. Please, let me have this chance. I trust this doctor."
Seeing the resolve in Joseph's eyes, Jasper and his wife couldn't refuse.
Jasper finally said, "Alright, Dr. Garcia, please do your best."
Olivia assured them, "I will give it my all."
Joseph, eager to proceed, asked, "When can we start?"
Olivia scheduled the surgery for the afternoon.
Daniel arranged for a high-standard operating room and the best team to assist her.
Olivia, having not performed surgery in a while, spent three hours practicing to ensure everything went smoothly.
The surgery was long and arduous, taking three to four hours. The Millers waited anxiously outside.
When the surgery light finally went off, they rushed to Olivia, asking, "Dr. Garcia, how did it go?"
Olivia smiled, "The surgery was a success. We removed the bullets from Mr. Miller's leg."
Jasper and his wife, seeing the bloodstained, rusted bullets, were moved to tears. "How is he?"
"He's in recovery and should be waking up from the anesthesia soon. You can visit him now."
They hurried to Joseph's ward, finding him overwhelmed with emotion. He never thought he'd have a chance to stand again.
Later, Olivia visited Joseph, who was deeply grateful. "Dr. Garcia, thank you so much!"
Jasper and his wife echoed his sentiments, "We'll never forget your kindness. You are a great benefactor to our family."
Olivia humbly replied, "My efforts are nothing compared to Mr. Miller's sacrifices."
Joseph insisted, "It's different. You gave me the chance to walk again. If there's anything you need, the Miller family will do our best to help."
Olivia, feeling a bit guilty, admitted, "I do have a request. I'm looking for information about a brilliant psychologist who helps many soldiers with their mental health."