in a quiet classroom, 16-year-old Emily lay her head on her desk, her usually vibrant face now pale and weary. The autumn chill had brought with it a stubborn cold, leaving her feeling drained and achy. Her classmates whispered around her, their voices a soft hum that lulled her into a light sleep.

Emily had always been the lively one, the girl who could brighten anyone’s day with her infectious laughter and boundless energy. But today, she was a shadow of herself, her body demanding the rest she rarely allowed it.

Her best friend, Sarah, glanced over with concern, her brow furrowed as she watched Emily’s chest rise and fall with each shallow breath.