(ARIELLE'S POV)
I puffed out air as the nurses helped me into the wheelchair. I was having my first physiotherapy session today, and the wheelchair was to aid my movement since I couldn't walk properly yet.
As I sat in the chair, my emotions were a whirlwind. Fear of the unknown, and determination. The nurses helped me get settled, and Ashley stood beside me, her hand on my shoulder.
“Ready?” The doctor asked, beaming at me.
I took a deep breath, trying to expel the feeling of nervousness. “Yes.
Ashley got behind me, pushing the chair as we made our way to the physiotherapy department.
We soon arrived, and the doors opened, and we were welcomed by the lady in charge.
“Welcome, Arielle,” she said beaming with a warm smile, and momentarily wondered how she knew my name. But then, I recalled that the doctor must have shared my medical file with her.
“We're going to get you moving in no time. Trust us,” she went on.
I returned her smile. “Thank you.”
“Alright, I guess my job is here done. I'll come back when you're done. Have a nice time having your joints fixed,” Ashley said and leaned down to peck my cheek. We bid each other goodbye, and she left.
Left alone with her, the Physiotherapist, Sinai, began the session by outlining and explaining the exercises we would be engaging in. She began with some gentle stretches, her hand guiding my movements.
“Remember to be focused, and take it one step at a time. Don't push yourself too hard,” Sinai instructed.
“I'll try.”
As the session progressed, and I grew weary, Sinai kept encouraging me. “You're doing great, Arielle. Keep it up!”
After what felt like forever, the session came to an end. Sinai patted mg shoulder. You did great on your first day. I'm proud of you, Arielle. If you keep going like this, you should be back on your feet in a week's time.”
“Really?”
“Yes, really.”
“Thanks,” I said, feeling optimistic. I honestly could not wait to be out of the hospital. It felt like my life has been placed on pause, and I didn't like the feeling.
Ashley arrived just then. “How was it?” She asked, helping me back into the wheelchair.
“Quite tough and painful, but I made it through.”
“I'm so proud of you,” she said, patting my hair.
I smiled.
As we headed back to the room, she asked about the exercises, and I shared every detail with her. When we got to the room, Ashley had already set up lunch. We ate in silence for a while before she spoke up.
“That reminds me, I got a call from your junior chef, Rebecca. She's been worried, and your boss too. Do you want me them to know where you're and what happened?”
I paused, and after a moment's thought replied, “yes.”
“Alright, I'll inform them. And tomorrow, I'll get your phone fixed. Who knows who else is trying to reach you.”
“Thanks, Ashley. I don't know what I'd do without you,” I said, growing sober.
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