Memory To Hold On To

On a Sunday evening, Lucas and Valdi fly back to Jakarta, sitting in silence on the plane with uncertain hearts.

That Friday, when the three of them consulted Professor Kareem, the diagnosis matched what Lucas had said. Valdi indeed has Brain Atrophy or celebral atrophy. Valdo, Valdi, and Lucas exchanged sad glances. Professor Kareem also recommended the same things Lucas had suggested to Valdi : regular exercise, stress reduction, an increase in protein-rich foods, and Vitamin B12 consumption. These are the only things they can do to slow down Valdi's condition. The disease is incurable, and there is no treatment to cure.

They exited Professor Kareem's office.

"Let's sit here for a moment; I'm feeling weak," Valdi said to the two men. Valdi sank into the seat, feeling a mixture of emotions welling up inside him. He gazed out the window for a moment, his mind clouded with the weight of the diagnosis. Then, with a heavy sigh, he turnerd to Valdo and Lucas.