The first day after surgery wasn’t the simple victory I had pictured.

Paige was sore, restless, and annoyed by how much effort it took just to sit up.

The staff guided her through recovery one step at a time, helping her move safely and explaining why she needed patience instead of heroics.

She hated asking for help even when reaching for a glass of water hurt her.

“Could you quit saying sorry every time you ask me for something?” I said after her fourth apology.

She gave me a small smile.