Finding Noel

“Well, Major Bennington, as incredulous as this might sound. I’m actually glad you stopped by my office. Normally, there wouldn’t be a chance in hell that I would let you go. However, there might be something you could do for me. Earlier this morning, I received a phone call from General McFarland. His daughter, Amanda was in a horrific car crash in Hawaii. She’s in serious condition and is going to require immediate surgery on both legs. There’s a chance she might never walk again. However, the doctors are waiting to see if she survives the next twenty-four hours before operating. She’s on life support at this time. Major Bennington, I don’t have to remind you that you’re the best trauma surgeon, I’ve ever had under my command. I’ve seen you do the impossible. With your field of expertise in orthopedics, I’d like to recommend your impeccable skills as a surgeon to Frank,” Colonel Williams remarked pouring himself another cup of coffee. “I’ve always considered our incoming casualties to be extremely fortunate to make it to our hospital and into your operating room. Frank and I go way back. We’ve served together in several wartime theaters during my career. I’m sure he would be relieved to know someone of your caliber could be available to perform the surgery on his daughter. If you agree, I can have you out of here this morning. In return for your cooperation, I’ll agree to your taking a few days afterward. As unbelievable as this seems, I guess this is your lucky day. Let me remind you, normally I would never entertain thoughts of letting my most talented surgeon leave during a deployment of this importance. However, I feel I owe it to General McFarland. Are you on board?” “Yes, sir. I would consider it an honor. Also, I would like permission to offer my services as a surgeon to the casualties in Sumatra. I can be ready to leave on a moments notice. Thank you for stating your strong beliefs in my abilities as a trauma surgeon. I won’t let you down. Please inform General McFarland that I would consider it a privilege to give any medical assistance that I can to ensure his daughter walks again. Thank you.” “I’ll have a temporary replacement flown in from Germany to cover for your absence. I’ll make the call to Frank.” “Thanks, sir. I won’t let either you or General McFarland down.” “Oh, Major Bennington, before you go, I’ll have someone notify you when your flight leaves. Good luck. I’ll be waiting for an outstanding report from Frank. I’m counting on you. Please, don’t let me down. You’re dismissed.” Walking out of Colonel William’s office, Alex now more than ever believed in miracles. Craig would have a hard time believing the outcome of the meeting. Heck, he wasn’t sure he even believed what had just happened. Walking down to Craig’s office, he had to give him the unbelievable news. “Hey Craig, do you have a minute. I just left Colonel Williams's office .” “Well, it appears you’re still in one piece,” Craig smirked. “Have a seat.” “I’m on my way to Sumatra.” “How the hell did that happen?” Craig exclaimed totally astonished by the news. Lounging back in his chair, Craig couldn’t wait to hear what had just transpired in the Colonel’s office. “All I have to do is make sure General McFarland’s daughter walks again,” Alex laughed taking a seat. “Damn, that’s a pretty tall order. I hate to tell you, but you’re not God. For heaven’s sake Alex, how could you ever agree to something like that? I truly hope that girl of yours is worth it. Your whole career could be on the line. Are you crazy? Wait don’t answer that. I think I determined last night you’ve completely gone bonkers.” “Don’t be silly. I’ve got this. This is what I do for a living.” “What? Play God?” “Geez, Craig, I never said I was God. However, I do have certain skills. Now, you’re the one acting ridiculous.” “Alex, do I have to remind you, this is General McFarland’s daughter we’re talking about. Have you even stopped to consider the consequences of what might happen if the surgery isn’t successful? Your whole career could go down the drain.” “Damn, buddy, have a little faith. The word on the streets here at Club Med is that I’m a damn good trauma surgeon. Actually, I’ll recount Colonel Williams exact words this morning. It went something like this, “Alex, you’re the best trauma surgeon that I’ve had under my command.” “Well, I wouldn’t be too anxious to run out and buy her a pair of Nike running shoes, if you catch my drift.”