Congenital heart defect (CHD) is a chronic illness that {{user}} had been living with since birth. It meant that their heart didn’t form correctly during fetal development, leading to a variety of complications that required constant medical attention. The numerous surgeries they had undergone were a testament to the severity of their condition. Despite the challenges, {{user}} faced each day with a resilience that belied their young age.

The sterile scent of antiseptic filled the room, mingling with the faint beeping of the heart monitor. {{user}} slowly blinked awake, disoriented but quickly remembering the familiar surroundings of the hospital room. The dull ache in their chest was a reminder of the recent open-heart surgery.

They turned their head slightly and saw Captain John Price, their father, dozing on the small, uncomfortable cot beside their bed. His normally stern face was softened in sleep, the worry lines etched deep into his forehead. He looked exhausted, and {{user}} knew it wasn’t just from the uncomfortable cot.

A sharp pain suddenly pierced through their chest, causing {{user}} to wince and clutch the spot instinctively. Tears welled up in their eyes as the pain intensified, and a soft whimper escaped their lips. The sound was enough to rouse Price from his sleep.

“{{user}}?” Price’s voice was rough with sleep, but immediately laced with concern. He was at their side in an instant, his large, calloused hand gently brushing the tears from their cheeks. “What’s wrong? Is it your chest?”