For the sake of appearances, my husband, the university professor, went for the matching test. On the day the results came back, Margaret and her family were all there.
To my surprise, my husband was a match.
Just when I was filled with hope, listening to the doctor discuss the treatment plan, Margaret pulled him aside.
“Son, you can’t donate to her. What if something goes wrong? What would I do? This woman can be replaced, but you’re essential to this family!”
My husband nodded, taking her words in.
“Doctor, my son has always had a weak immune system. The transplant might not be viable. My daughter-in-law’s hospital bills will still be on him. Oh, he has a business trip coming up – can’t you help find another liver?”
Margaret glanced at her phone and suddenly looked panicked. “We’re running out of time! Doctor, I’m counting on you for my daughter-in-law. We have to go now!”
She pulled my son and pushed my husband out the door.
In that moment, my heart turned to ash. I could see the pity in the nurses’ eyes as I forced a brave smile.
After that day, my husband didn’t reach out, and my mom never called to check on me.
Perhaps this was for the best. At least in my final moments, I could enjoy some peace and quiet. It was only at the end of my life that I saw the true faces of those around me, and it left me feeling bitterly resentful.
