The following morning, Jillian and Dr. Lin Mei met with the patient, Mr. Zhao, a middle-aged man who had been struggling with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) for years. His fear of invasive procedures was evident, and his anxiety about surgery had only worsened his condition.
Seated across from him in the consultation room, Jillian carefully explained, "Mr. Zhao, we want to discuss an alternative treatment plan with you. It involves using the Nine-Needle Technique alongside medication to help manage your symptoms."
Mr. Zhao frowned slightly. "Nine-Needle? Like acupuncture?"
Dr. Lin Mei nodded. "Yes, but it's a highly specialized form, designed to improve circulation and heart function. It won't replace your medication, but it may help stabilize your condition and delay the need for surgery."
Mr. Zhao leaned back, considering. "I've always been skeptical of alternative treatments, but… if it means avoiding surgery for now, I'm willing to try."
Jillian smiled reassuringly. "We'll monitor your progress closely. If your condition improves, we continue. If not, we reassess."
With his consent, they scheduled the first session for the next day. Jillian felt a sense of accomplishment—she wasn't just treating a condition; she was helping a patient take control of his health in a way that aligned with his comfort and beliefs.
Now, the real test would begin. Would the Nine-Needle Technique yield results?
As the weeks passed, Mr. Zhao's condition began to show remarkable improvement. The integration of the nine-needle technique alongside his prescribed treatment yielded positive results, stabilizing his irregular heart rhythms and significantly reducing his episodes of breathlessness. His once frequent dizziness and fatigue became less severe, allowing him to move around with greater ease. The medical team, including Jillian, conducted regular tests and closely monitored his vitals, ensuring that every adjustment in his treatment plan was carefully considered.
Jillian was particularly invested in his progress. She made sure to check on him daily, observing his response to the therapy and making minor adjustments under the guidance of her mentors. With each session, Mr. Zhao expressed gratitude, noting that he felt stronger and more capable of performing his daily routines. His complexion, which once appeared pale and weak, began to regain a healthy glow. Even his family, who had been initially skeptical about the alternative technique, started to believe in Jillian's approach after seeing the undeniable improvements in his condition.
After a month of continuous treatment and observation, a series of follow-up tests revealed significant advancements. His heart function had improved, his circulation was better, and his overall stamina had increased. The cardiology department reviewed his case and acknowledged the effectiveness of the combined approach. The success of this treatment not only reinforced Jillian's confidence in utilizing traditional methods alongside modern medicine but also earned her the recognition of her colleagues and superiors.
Doctors and specialists in the department began discussing Jillian's innovative thinking, and even the hospital director took notice. Her ability to merge different medical techniques demonstrated a depth of knowledge and adaptability that few students possessed. This breakthrough not only benefited Mr. Zhao but also opened new discussions on how integrative treatments could be explored further in the field of cardiology.
Mr. Zhao, now on the path to recovery, expressed his deep appreciation to Jillian and the team. "I never imagined I would feel this way again," he said with a warm smile. "Thank you for not giving up on me."
Jillian left his room that day with a deep sense of fulfillment. This experience solidified her belief that medicine was not just about science but also about patience, innovation, and a willingness to think beyond conventional methods. She knew that this was only the beginning of many more breakthroughs to come.
Jillian's reputation as a talented young doctor began spreading across different corners of Shanghai. Patients who had been treated under her care shared their success stories, speaking highly of her dedication, skill, and willingness to explore innovative medical approaches. Her colleagues, once merely observant of her progress, now sought her insights on complex cases, impressed by her ability to merge traditional and modern techniques.
Doctors from other departments started recognizing her name, and even senior specialists commended her work. Some of her superiors began recommending her for high-profile cases, believing that her unique approach could benefit more patients. Jillian remained humble, focusing on her work rather than the growing attention.
With her rising popularity, she started receiving invitations to medical discussions and hospital conferences. A few renowned specialists in Shanghai even expressed interest in mentoring her, recognizing that she was a rare talent in the medical field.
However, not everyone was pleased with her rapid rise. Some colleagues, feeling overshadowed, whispered about how she was "just an intern" and didn't deserve the recognition she was getting. Others doubted whether her unconventional techniques would be effective in the long run. But Jillian was unfazed. She had worked too hard to let jealousy or skepticism slow her down.
Despite the challenges, her focus remained on her patients. And with each successful case, her name continued to grow, not just within the hospital but beyond—cementing her place as one of the most promising young doctors in Shanghai.
Jillian found herself at a crossroads. After years of relentless dedication and pushing her limits, she had finally received an offer from one of the most prestigious heart institutes in the world—a place she had always dreamed of training at. The fellowship was an opportunity of a lifetime, one that could solidify her expertise and allow her to make groundbreaking contributions to the field of cardiology.
However, the news was bittersweet. While her heart soared at the thought of advancing her skills, another part of her was weighed down by the unfinished battle back home. She had not forgotten about Harlond or the dark web of secrets surrounding him. Jillian had promised herself that she would see this fight through, uncover the truth, and protect those who had suffered under his influence.
Late at night, as she sat by her window overlooking the city lights of Shanghai, she thought about all the people who had supported her journey—her grandmother, Dante, Leo, Chloe, Clara. They had all played a role in shaping the person she had become. But she also knew that they would want her to make the best decision for herself.
The next few days were filled with deep contemplation. She sought advice from her mentors, including the female department director who had become her close friend. "Opportunities like this don't come often, Jillian," she advised. "But only you can decide if the timing is right."
She weighed her options carefully. If she accepted the fellowship, she would be away for several more years, gaining unparalleled expertise and making invaluable connections. But if she chose to return, she would be diving straight into the battle that awaited her—one where the risks were higher than ever.
The clock was ticking. She had to make a decision soon. Would she follow the path she had worked so hard for, or would she return to face the storm that had been brewing all along?