“It’s a nice morning,” Mike said, motioning in the direction of the exit. “How about taking a walk? There’s a park on the other side of the hospital. It seems like I’m spending more and more time there.”
“Sure,” Jack answered.
They left the hospital and followed a brick-paved path that took them around to the west side of the campus. Similar to Mike, many other family members had discovered the small green space, using it as a respite from the stress and fatigue of the hospital. They sat down on one of a dozen steel benches.
Their conversation began with Jack providing Mike with a detailed update on Tess’s condition.
“So, you’d agree with the other doctors that she’s worse,” Mike stated flatly.
“Yes.”
“I’m getting the feeling you’re struggling to find some way to tell me Tess isn’t going to make it.”
“I know I keep saying the same thing, but I need more time.”
“And you still have absolutely no idea what might be causing the illness.”
“Not yet.”
Mike’s manner and tone reflected a growing sense of both doom and contrition.
“I got a call from Dr. Sinclair. He told me he thinks he’s within a few days of proving what’s causing GNS and how to cure it. He wants to set up a meeting with me as soon as possible to discuss his treatment plan.”
“What else did he say?”
“That he believed GNS was a viral disease that was very treatable. He also mentioned that most of the doctors in the country had their heads up their collective asses regarding GNS, and unless they opened their eyes, they had no hope of finding a cure.” Mike waited for a young couple to walk past before going on. “He didn’t say it in so many words, but I got the feeling he was counting you amongst those unenlightened physicians.”
Considering the source, Jack wasn’t bothered by the comment.
“Over the years I’ve been called everything from uninspired to intellectually reckless. I guess I’ve developed a pretty thick skin.”
“Do you think he’s right about GNS being a viral disease?” Mike asked.
“My gut feeling is no, but I can’t prove he’s wrong.”
“So you’re saying you don’t know?”
“That’s right,” Jack answered in a quiet voice. “I’m saying I don’t know.”
“On the phone you said you had something to tell me.”
“It wasn’t anything specific. I have some understanding of what you’re going through and I just wanted to make sure you didn’t make any rash decisions. I don’t foresee any choices that have to be made on an urgent basis. We should have time to calmly discuss any treatment plans that…that are proposed.”
“Since Sinclair’s the only one proposing any, I assume you’re referring to him.”
“His plan would be included in what I’m talking about.”
“Don’t worry. That’s why you’re here. If you think putting Sinclair off for a few days is the way to go, that’s what we’ll do.” Mike lifted his eyes, staring off at nothing for a few seconds. “I’d rather not talk about this anymore,” he said, coming to his feet. “Do you mind if we head back to the hospital?”
As they started back toward the hospital, Mike’s silence spoke volumes. Jack knew he was doing everything he could to disguise his dismay and fear. Going all the way back to their childhood, one of the first things Jack had learned about Mike was that timing was everything. Now was not the time to try and allay his concerns or look for a silver lining. Jack knew if he tried, it would only make matters worse.