Denise did not attempt to decide the legal question herself.

She said she would contact the hospital’s legal and care coordination teams and encouraged each of us to speak with our attorneys.

“What I need to know immediately,” she added, “is who can be reached for medical decisions, and whether Hope has a safe plan once she is ready to leave.”

“I am here,” Hannah said.

She sounded offended that anyone could ask.

“I have been here every day of this pregnancy.”