The treatment began the next day — and this time, it worked. Slowly, her body responded. Her skin regained color, her appetite returned, and the sharp edge of pain dulled into memory. Weeks turned into months.
The chemo sessions grew less frequent, her hair began to return in soft brown wisps, and her body no longer trembled when she stood. Maggie stayed until she was certain her daughter could manage on her own, leaving reluctantly but with pride in her eyes.