Episode 15

It was Dr. Alessandro Rossi, a renowned respiratory disease specialist, working at the Menecucci Family Hospital in Sicily. Dr. Rossi was known for his expertise and dedication in caring for patients with complex respiratory issues, providing advanced treatments and specialized follow-up. He was highly respected by the medical community and by patients who trusted in his knowledge and skills to pursue the best possible quality of life.

"Sorry for the delay, Mr. Menecucci. I have Mavie's test results," Dr. Rossi said.

"Please, doctor, tell us what you found. What does my daughter have?" Sabrina asked anxiously.

"Unfortunately, Mavie's respiratory problems have worsened. She is facing a significant deterioration in her airways. After detailed analyses, we've concluded that she will need a lung transplant," Dr. Rossi explained.

"A lung transplant? But that means..." Sabrina said, feeling a hole open up beneath her, completely surprised and worried.

"Yes, Sabrina. It's a complex surgery, but it's the most viable option to improve her respiratory condition and ensure her quality of life in the long term," Dr. Rossi explained.

"Dr. Rossi, we need to do whatever is necessary to save Mavi's life. Where can we perform this transplant?" Dom Mauricio said with a firm voice, realizing Sabrina's desperation.

"For a successful lung transplant, we need to refer Mavi to a specialized transplant center. Fortunately, we have excellent connections to a renowned hospital in another country. There, she will have access to the best specialists and medical care necessary for the procedure," the doctor explained.

"But Doctor, isn't it possible to perform this surgery here in Sicily?" Sabrina questioned.

"We are the best hospital in Sicily, with excellent professionals, but for a high complexity lung transplant, it's necessary to seek a specialized center in another country. In this case, we will have to refer Mavi to a renowned hospital in the United States, where they have extensive experience and advanced resources for this type of procedure."

"Going to the United States... But how will we do this? The costs will be very high, do you know the cost of this transplant?" Sabrina said, worried.

"Sabrina, the costs of a lung transplant can vary considerably, depending on various factors like the region where the procedure is performed, the chosen hospital, the medical team involved, and post-operative expenses. It's around $500,000," Dr. Rossi said.

"That's a lot of money, Doctor. I don't have that amount—my daughter's health insurance is recent, and I doubt it will cover this," Sabrina said, becoming even more frightened by the situation.

"The health insurance doesn't cover a surgery like this, Sabrina. In this case, I need your authorization for payment to proceed with the preparations of the necessary medical team to accompany us on the trip and for the other hospital."

Dom Mauricio remained silent, listening. He put his hands in his pockets and observed Sabrina's worry and despair. She truly loved her daughter Mavie, and he admired that.

"Doctor, can Mavi travel by plane, even with the respiratory issues she's facing? Is there any risk involved?" Sabrina asked, still concerned.

"I understand your concern, Sabrina. In Mavi's case, we will work with a specialized medical team for the transport of patients in delicate conditions. They have the necessary resources to ensure that she remains stable and comfortable during the flight. Moreover, the hospital in the United States will be prepared to receive her upon arrival," the doctor explained.

"And how much time do we have? Because I don't have the money, and need to arrange our visas," Sabrina said.

"As for the time, we will do everything possible to expedite the process. We are in contact with the medical team of the hospital in the United States to ensure that there is an available slot as soon as possible. The priority is to take care of Mavi's health and perform the surgery at the earliest to give her the best chance of recovery. We cannot delay; we have days or she could deteriorate gradually," Dr. Rossi said with concern.

"Thank you for clearing up my questions, doctor."

With teary eyes of worry, Sabrina approached Dr. Alessandro Rossi with an emotional request:

"Dr. Rossi, I need to see my daughter in the ICU. I want to be by her side, even if only for a few moments. Can I see her?"

The doctor looked at Sabrina with compassion, understanding the anguish she was experiencing. He responded kindly:

"Sabrina, I understand your worry and desire to be with your daughter. However, given the delicate circumstances and the fact that Mavi is intubated, it's important to ensure her stability and safety throughout the intensive care period. Therefore, visits to the ICU are not possible at this time."

Sabrina's heart tightened, but she knew it was essential to trust the medical care and Dr. Rossi's expertise. She took a deep breath and asked:

"Doctor, how is she doing? Is there any chance of improvement before the surgery?"

The doctor replied calmly:

"Mavie is in critical condition, but we are doing everything in our power to stabilize her and ensure the necessary care. She is closely monitored, and our team is committed to providing the best possible treatment. At the moment, it's difficult to predict any immediate improvement, but we are dedicated to doing whatever is necessary to help her. It is ideal to perform the surgery as quickly as possible."