Page 59 of Shadows of Recovery

“We need to consider transferring Sophie to the Blackwell Institute. They have the facilities and expertise to help her with both her physical and cognitive recovery.”

Tristan nodded thoughtfully. “But we need to ensure her head injuries are stable enough for the move. We can’t risk her health.”

James ran a hand through his hair. “I agree. Her progress is encouraging, but we have to be cautious. I’d like to do another scan to get a detailed assessment.” He looked at Tristan, his expression firm but compassionate. “You’ve been amazing with her, Tristan, but you need to take care of yourself too. I know you’re still seeing Ellen Boyle. But this has been hard on you, and I fear things will get harder. We have no idea what will happen if and when she remembers what happened to her.”

Tristan’s brow rose, and he nodded, though the concern in James’s voice only added to his own worries. “I know. But I can’t stop now. She needs me.”

Chris placed a hand on Tristan’s shoulder. “We’re all here for her, and for you. You don’t have to do this alone.”

* * *

The next morning,after weeks of intensive care and meticulous recovery efforts, Sophie's condition was finally stabilized enough for Tristan, James and her family to consider the next crucial step in her journey: transferring her to the Blackwell Institute. It was a decision fraught with careful consideration, knowing the significance of providing her with a safe and supportive environment to continue her recovery.

Tristan and James stood outside the conference room near the ICU, bracing themselves for the conversation ahead. Inside, Sophie’s family was gathered, their faces etched with worry. Dr. Chris Skylar stood with them, ready to provide his expertise.

James took a deep breath and stepped into the room, Tristan close behind. Sophie’s mother looked up, her eyes filled with hope and fear. Sophie’s sisters sat around her, expressions showing concern and anticipation.

“Mrs. Everhart, everyone, thank you for meeting with us,” James began. “We need to discuss the best course of action for the next phase of Sophie’s recovery.”

Charlotte nodded, her hands trembling slightly. “What do you suggest?”

James glanced at Tristan, who gave him an encouraging nod. “I believe her brain scans show stability. Her fractures in her ankle, arm, ribs and facial bones are also healing well, so I am passing off my expertise to Dr. Chris Skylar.”

Chris stepped forward, his expression calm and reassuring. “I understand this is a difficult time for your family. After consulting with the medical personnel, I believe transferring her to the Blackwell Institute would be the best option. The Institute specializes in both physical and emotional rehabilitation, and Sophie will need that comprehensive support to recover fully.

We believe we can provide her with the best care possible.”

Charlotte’s eyes filled with tears. “Will she be safe there? Will she really get the help she needs?”

James nodded. “Yes, Mrs. Everhart. The Institute is well-equipped to handle her medical needs. The blood clot I removed from her brain was in a critical area, affecting the hippocampus and amygdala.” He pointed to the side of his own head to illustrate. “I know her memory is affected. She may not remember the trauma now, but as she heals, there’s a possibility those memories could resurface. And, in fact, I believe they will. She’s been having snippets of memories.”

Olivia, her eldest sister, spoke up, her voice shaky. “And if she remembers? What then?”

Tristan took a deep breath. “That’s why we believe, why I believe the Blackwell Institute is the right place for her. The sexual assault was severe, and when those memories come back, or when she demands to read her chart, she’s going to need specialized support. The Institute has the resources to help her navigate that process.”

Charlotte’s face crumpled, and she buried her face in her hands. Molly and Isobel moved to comfort her, while Ruth looked at Tristan with wide, fearful eyes. “How will we know if it’s working? How will we know she’s getting better?”

Chris Skylar stepped in again, his voice firm yet kind. “We’ll work closely with Sophie, monitoring her progress every step of the way. We’ll keep you informed and involved in her care plan. That said, this is what we are looking for: we'll see Sophie start to manage her emotions better. Instead of intense mood swings, she'll begin to respond to situations with a more balanced emotional reaction.”

He counted on his fingers. "For Sophie, healing might mean fewer panic attacks, less frequent nightmares, and a reduction in her constant sadness. She will begin to use healthier coping strategies. Instead of avoiding her feelings or turning to unhealthy behaviors, she'll start using techniques we've worked on in therapy, like mindfulness, exercise, or talking about her feelings.”

He pressed his lips together. "As Sophie heals, she'll likely develop a more positive outlook on life. She might start looking forward to activities she used to enjoy and engage more with friends and family." He smiled. “You’ll all notice that.”

Dr. Skylar emphasized that healing was a gradual process and varied from person to person. He assured Charlotte that they would closely monitor Sophie's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to support her recovery.

The family sat in silence for a moment. Finally, Charlotte spoke, her voice filled with resolve. “Let’s do it. Let’s get Sophie the help she needs.”

* * *

Later that evening,Tristan found himself sitting in the hospital cafeteria with Charlotte Everhart. She was a poised woman, but her eyes betrayed the deep worry she felt for her daughter.

“Thank you for meeting with me, Tristan,” she said, her voice steady despite the circumstances.

“I’m just glad to have the chance to speak with you, alone.”

Charlotte nodded, her gaze intense. “I want to know how Sophie is really doing. James and her other doctors tell me she’s stable, but I need to hear it from someone who truly cares about her.”

Tristan took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. “Sophie is strong, but the trauma she’s experienced was significant. Physically, she’s healing well, but emotionally... it’s going to take time.”

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