He explained that he combines ancient hydrotherapy techniques with modern knowledge of the nervous system, which he studied independently. Seawater is rich in minerals that improve circulation. Certain types of seaweeds contain substances that stimulate nerve tissue regeneration.
And mainly, proper work with the patient’s psychological state. «You know,» William said thoughtfully, «maybe it’s not just your methods. Maybe it’s that you were the first person who believed in her.»
«Possibly, senor. Faith is also medicine. Mr. Navarro, I have a proposal.
I want you to continue working with Emily. But officially. I’ll hire the best doctors who will observe the process and document the results.
Perhaps your methods can be studied and applied to other patients.» Ramon was surprised by the proposal. «I’m grateful, senor Thompson.
But I can’t work without documents. I’ll solve the documents problem. I have connections in immigration services.
We’ll get you a work visa as an alternative medicine specialist. And my family in Cuba? If Emily’s treatment is successful, I’ll help bring your wife and children here.» Ramon was silent for a long time.
The proposal was generous, but he understood the responsibility it entailed. «I agree,» he finally said. «But on one condition.»
«What?» «If the treatment doesn’t help, if Emily doesn’t walk, you won’t blame me for giving false hopes. Sometimes the sea gives, sometimes takes. It’s not in our power.»
«Agreed.» A month later, a modern hydrotherapy clinic was equipped in the Thompson estate. William invited neurologists and physiotherapists from the country’s best medical centers to observe Emily’s treatment.
The doctors’ skepticism was obvious, but they couldn’t deny the facts. Sensitivity in the girl’s legs was gradually returning. Dr. Elizabeth Harper, a leading neurologist from a Miami clinic, was particularly intrigued.
«Mr. Navarro,» she said after one session. «I’ve studied all of Miss Thompson’s MRI scans over the last 12 years. The spinal damage is indeed serious.
From a medical point of view, what’s happening now shouldn’t be possible.» «And what do the new scans say?» Ramon asked. «That’s what’s amazing.
Physically nothing has changed in the spine, but brain activity in areas responsible for leg movement has significantly increased. As if sleeping neural connections are starting to wake up.» «Maybe it’s not just the physical damage?» Ramon suggested.
«Maybe the brain just forgot how to control the legs because it hadn’t received signals from them for so long. That’s an interesting theory. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to restore lost functions, hasn’t been fully studied.
Treatment continued.» By the end of the sixth month, Emily could not only feel touch on her legs but also slightly move her toes. It was a real breakthrough.
«Ramon!» she said during one session. «And what’s next? Will I ever be able to walk?» «I don’t know, senorita, but we’ve come so far, why not try to go all the way?» «And if it doesn’t work?» «Then you’ll know you did everything possible. That’s important too.»
In the eighth month of treatment, an event happened that no one expected. During a session in the pool, Emily suddenly felt she could bend her left leg at the knee. Not much, just a few centimeters, but she could really control the movement.
«Dad!» she shouted when William came to check on her. «Look!» And she showed him how slowly, with great effort, she bent and extended her leg in the water. William cried.
For the first time in many years, this strong man accustomed to controlling everything couldn’t hold back his emotions. By the end of the year, Emily could move both legs in the water. On land, movements didn’t work yet.
The muscles were too weak after many years of immobility. But the progress was obvious. Dr. Harper suggested adding a special exoskeleton to the treatment, a device that would help support the body during walking attempts…
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