can·cer
ˈkansər/
noun: cancer
the disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body.

“Skye Scarlet, I hope you can understand your parents are doing their best, but I’m afraid that overdosing of medical treatments won’t conjure up any more time for you. You’re old enough to understand that,” Dr. Parker said sternly, as I nodded my head. “I apologize that you’ve had to spend the last six years confined in this hospital. But your parents have agreed that we should let you out of this hospital.”

“Is there any other possible way?” I sniffled, trying to hold back the tears.

“We’ve estimated you have around 100 days left. Don’t worry; we humans aren’t capable of living forever. You should know one day that we all have to leave our cherished ones.”

“I’m sorry for asking you a question like that,” I apologized with a sigh, fidgeting with my thumbs.

“Please prepare to leave tomorrow morning,” Dr. Parker announced, standing up from her chair. “This might seem too fast for you, but your time left is running short.”

“I understand.”

I watched as Dr. Parker dusted off her white lab coat, and unlocked the metallic door in front of me to the hallway, entering another patient’s room.

Six years ago when I first arrived to this hospital, I was ten years old. Before my parents discovered that I had cancer, my dad was abusive and came home every night drunk. But he snapped from his addiction to alcohol and made a life goal to pay money for my treatment.

But time had passed by so quickly, and it was too late to treat it. My dad continued to pay for temporary treatments, and I had survived the devastating and painful six years.

When Dr. Parker told me I could finally leave this hospital, I couldn’t believe it. Even though I had long wished to leave, I was frightened of death itself.

As I ignored my negative thoughts, I fluffed my pillow and laid my head down. I closed my eyes and smiled, hoping what tomorrow will bring.

Time isn't what matters, it's about how wisely you choose to spend it.