Life was pretty much perfect for Elaine (Lany) and Ethan and even though they hadn't planned to start a family right away their love was strong enough to sustain anything as long as they would be together. They would discover that love is the most powerful gift of all especially when St. Nicholas is around on Christmas eve to help miracles happen. *** Shortland writes a powerfully emotional story that moved me to tears with an intensity that took my breath away.
Excerpt:
Doctor Gibbons again sighed heavily. "There is never an easy way to tell patients when their test results are unfavorable. But you need to know you do have options."
"I've only fainted. I'm tired, but surely there isn't anything seriously wrong with me. Tell me what the tests say so we can discuss the options you mention."
"The test results show a weakness in your heart, Mrs. O'Donovan."
"A weakness?" Ethan and Elaine asked together.
"I've been healthy my whole life. Why is this weakness only now showing symptoms?"
"As your baby grows, it's pushing on your heart. With the weakness, the heart can't function properly. Other things can also affect the heart's function, such as diet, exercise and stress. Even bending over can force the baby against the heart, totally preventing functionality."
"But I wasn't really bending over. It's kind of hard these days." She rubbed her belly.
"Nonetheless, this is what we believe happened today. When the heart doesn't function properly, the oxygen supply to the body is diminished. When that happens, a person can faint." The doctor flipped through the test results again. "Is this the only time you've fainted? Have you felt weak or more tired than usual?"
Elaine glanced at Ethan. He knew by the look on her face she had. How could he have missed her distress?
Elaine shook her head. "No. I'm tired all the time and not sleeping well these days since it's hard to get comfortable. And with work and everything that's been going on at home, well… But I did go see my doctor. He said I was probably just down on my vitamins and to get some rest. I've been trying, but…"
Ethan sat up straighter, glancing at the doctor. "So, what does this mean? Elaine just needs more rest, right? Get those vitamins?" He turned to Elaine. "I'll call Mary and tell her you've worked your last day, love. You should have quit weeks ago."
"I'm afraid it's a bit more complicated than that," the doctor continued. "Mrs. O'Donovan, I fear your heart has irreparable damage.
