Fighting for Answers

Erica gently laid Ashley's seizing body on the floor, trying to make her as comfortable as possible until the paramedics arrived. She stroked Ashley's hair, whispering words of encouragement as she waited for help to arrive. The sound of sirens outside signaled the arrival of the paramedics, and Erica quickly stood up, allowing them to take over. The paramedics swiftly assessed Ashley's condition, attaching monitors and inserting an IV into her arm. They carefully lifted her onto a stretcher and began to wheel her out of the house. Erica followed closely behind, her heart heavy with worry. As they arrived at the hospital, Erica was relieved to see that it was the one closest to Ashley's LA home. She had been taken to New Jersey for her previous performances, but now she was back in her own city, and Erica hoped that the familiar surroundings would bring her some comfort. The hospital staff quickly took Ashley into a room, and Erica was asked to wait in the waiting area while they ran some tests. She paced back and forth, her mind racing with thoughts of what could be causing Ashley's seizures. She had always been a strong and healthy person, and this sudden change was unsettling. After what felt like an eternity, the doctor emerged from the room, looking concerned. "We've run some initial tests, and we're not sure what's causing Ashley's seizures," he said. "We're going to need to run some more tests, including an EEG, MRI, and blood work." Erica nodded, her eyes welling up with tears. "Please, find out what's wrong with her," she begged. The doctor nodded sympathetically. "We're doing everything we can. In the meantime, I think it would be best if you stayed with her." As the day went on, Ashley had another seizure, and Erica was by her side, holding her hand and talking softly to her. The hospital staff was kind and attentive, but Erica could sense their uncertainty. As the sun began to set, Erica was exhausted but refused to leave Ashley's side. She sat in a chair beside her bed, holding her hand and watching as the machines beeped and whirred around her. The doctor came in again, this time with a team of specialists. "We've run some more tests, and we're still not sure what's causing Ashley's seizures," he said. "But we're not giving up. We're going to keep running tests and trying to find the cause." Erica nodded, her eyes locked on Ashley's face. "Please, don't give up," she whispered. "Ashley needs you." As the night wore on, Erica stayed by Ashley's side, fighting for answers and praying for her friend's recovery.