As they sat in anticipation, the support group recounted accounts of their personal treks and tribulations. A great many of them had confronted their own battles with sickness, hardship, or prevailing attitudes. In John's story, they identified similar experiences to theirs, and that mutual affinity had created a sturdy feeling of fellowship.
The attendees of the support group offered each other solace and reassurance. Reinforcing the notion that none of them were battling through these difficulties in isolation, they came together to take on life's most arduous issues. Amidst this unified display of vulnerability, they realized the resilience to remain steadfast and to stand by one another.
Time dragged on before the medical personnel emerged from the OR. The anxiety in the waiting room was almost tangible as they started to make their way out. Dr. Miller, the chief surgeon, gazed at John's anxious family and friends and attempted a faint but optimistic grin.
"The operation was victorious," Dr. Miller proclaimed, his denotation full of catharsis. "We were able to excise the fibroids with no difficulties, and John is recuperating as we speak."