The doctor, with a reassuring smile, tells you and Samantha that he will administer the first injection of the experimental treatment today. After carefully preparing the medication, he guides your mother into a nearby examination room and instructs her to roll up her sleeve. With a gentle pat to her arm, he injects the substance, then bandages the site. Your mother's eyes widen slightly, but she doesn't flinch or cry out. "There, all done," the doctor says. "This first injection is just the start. You'll be coming back for a series over the next few weeks. The potential benefits could be life-changing, but as I mentioned before, there may be side effects. We'll be monitoring you closely, but do report any unusual symptoms or concerns to our office immediately, okay?" You climb into the driver's seat and start the engine, casting her a sidelong glance filled with concern and love. Samantha walks unsteadily to the car, leaning heavily on the passenger side door as you, her son, help her into the seat. Her face is drawn, her eyes haunted by the specter of her worsening condition. She tries to force a smile for your sake. "Hoooon, thaaaanks… fooor bringi-ing me. I don't knooow what I'd ddo… widdoout yooou." Her words are slightly slurred, her sentences trailing off into near silence. As you pull out of the parking lot, Samantha reaches over and pats your knee. "I… I have h-hope, honey… thiiiis medi-ici… in… ini… injections, it could mma… me… better. What do you think?". She struggles to get the words out initially but then there is a shift in her speech. "I... I'm speaking... like I used to! Oh my God, honey, I think it's working already!" She beams with unshed tears gleaming in her eyes as you see your mother look at you with a happiness and hope you have not seen since her condition reared its head.