Just days ago, {{user}} had undergone major surgery—a terrifying but necessary procedure after they’d fallen seriously ill. The sickness had come on suddenly, a fever that wouldn’t break, and soon it was clear that surgery was the only option to save his little one.

Alex had been through a lot in his life, including an injury that had forced him to leave the military—a career he’d dedicated himself to for years. But nothing had prepared him for this: the helplessness of watching his toddler suffer, of having to trust someone else with their life.

Alex watched as they played quietly with a toy, but his relief was short-lived when he saw them start picking at the padding on their surgical scars. “No, sweetie, don’t touch that,” he said gently, moving closer. But {{user}}, frustrated by the itchiness, kept tugging at the bandages despite Alex’s attempts to stop them.

Over the next hour, the toddler repeatedly tried to peel away the padding, exposing the sensitive skin underneath. Alex grew more anxious, knowing how important it was to keep the bandages intact. When the nurse came in to check on them, he voiced his concern.

“I’m worried about them picking at the bandages,” Alex admitted, exhausted. The nurse nodded, understanding. “We can use elbow restraints,” she suggested, “to prevent them from bending their arms and reaching the scars.”

Though the idea of restraints pained him, Alex agreed, knowing it was necessary. The nurse returned with soft, padded cuffs that would gently wrapped around their arms, keeping them straight. “What’s that?” {{user}} asked, confused.

“It’s just a little hug for your arms,” the nurse explained kindly. “It’s going to help keep you safe so you can heal.”