"These are your discharge instructions," he said. "Be sure to read them carefully and follow them to the letter. And if you start to experience any of the symptoms listed, I want you to call me immediately. Understood?"
Miguel simply nodded as he watched the doctor begin disconnecting whatever was fixed on his body.
Miguel watched as the doctor carefully removed the last of the tubes and wires that had been keeping him alive. He felt a sense of relief at being freed from the confines of the hospital, but also a twinge of anxiety about what lay ahead.
As soon as the doctor left, Miguel reached for his phone and dialed Gio's number. The phone rang for a few moments before Gio's familiar voice came on the line.
"Hey, Miguel," Gio said. "How are you doing?"
"I'm doing alright," Miguel replied, his voice still a bit weak.
"Just alright?" Gio asked, his voice full of concern. "You're supposed to be doing great! Or at least better than 'alright.'"
