By M Muzamil Shami - April 28, 2025
In the sterile corridors of St. Mercy Hospital, Dr. Molly Palmer felt a familiar knot tighten in her stomach. Her father, Dr. David Gibson, the hospital's esteemed yet emotionally distant head of internal medicine, had summoned her for a case.
“Our new patient is a child. And I hate kids,” he muttered, handing over the file.
Molly forced a smile. “That I know.”
Inside the examination room, a petite girl named Alice sat on the bed, her eyes darting nervously between her parents. Her father, Peter Green, answered every question directed at her, his voice firm and unwavering.
“She’s been complaining of stomach pain since Tuesday,” he stated.
Molly knelt beside Alice. “Can you tell me where it hurts?”
Alice opened her mouth, but Peter interjected, “Lower right abdomen.”
Molly's gaze met Alice's, noting the fear lurking behind her eyes.
After a brief examination, Dr. Gibson concluded, “Appendicitis. Prep her for surgery.”
Molly hesitated. “Her discomfort around her father is concerning. I'd like to speak with her alone.”
Dr. Gibson scoffed. “Patients are numbers, facts, symptoms. Not feelings.”
Defying her father's orders, Molly found a moment to sit with Alice, introducing herself as just "Molly."
“I like your dolls,” she said, pointing to the one clutched tightly in Alice's hands.
Alice whispered, “This is Dr. Doll. She helps me when I'm scared.”
“Does Dr. Doll know why your tummy hurts?”
Alice nodded slowly. “Bad girls get punished. Daddy says so.”
Molly's heart ached. “It's not your fault, Alice. You're a good girl.”
Further tests revealed no signs of appendicitis. Instead, a mass of hair was found in Alice's stomach—a result of trichophagia, often stemming from severe anxiety or trauma.
Confronting Mary Green, Alice's mother, Molly learned of Peter's controlling nature. He had removed Alice's bedroom door, monitored her constantly, and punished her for minor infractions.
“He loves us in his own way,” Mary defended weakly.
“When love has to be earned, it's not love,” Molly replied gently.
With the truth unveiled, child protective services intervened. Alice underwent surgery to remove the hair mass and began therapy.
Dr. Gibson approached Molly, a rare softness in his eyes. “You were right. She's not just a case.”
Molly nodded, a tear slipping down her cheek. “No one should live in fear, especially not a child.”
FAQs:
Q: What is trichophagia?
A: Trichophagia is a condition where individuals eat their own hair, often linked to stress or psychological disorders.
Q: How can doctors identify signs of child abuse?
A: Doctors look for physical signs, behavioral changes, and inconsistencies in stories. Building trust with the child is crucial.
Q: What should one do if they suspect a child is being abused?
A: Report concerns to local child protective services or authorities. It's essential to ensure the child's safety.
Have you ever encountered a situation where someone’s true pain was hidden beneath the surface? Share your experiences or thoughts below.
#ChildAbuseAwareness #MedicalDramaStory #EmotionalNarrative
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