"Ashley," Dr. Mason began. "I want to say that I am so proud of you, your good attitude, and for sticking with your workout and chemo regimens." "Thank you, Dr. Mason." I smiled. "I feel emotionally and physically stronger than I did when I first came here and started treatment." "That you are, my dear." Dr. Mason smiled. "Might I say that you look wonderful, healthy, and toned?" "I appreciate that, Dr. Mason." I replied. "Even though the chemo and radiation treatments are hard to deal with sometimes, I feel like that they are two of the main reasons that I have made excellent progress." "Honey, in your case, excellent progress is an understatement." Dr. Bolton replied, looking quite pleased. "You have made miraculous progress." "That's amazing " I exclaimed, my heart filling with joy. "If you think that's amazing, well then you are going to think that this next piece of news is out of this world." "What could be more amazing than having made miraculous progress?" "Sweetheart," Mom whispered, happy tears filling her eyes. "On Monday, Dad and I got a call saying that you have made so much progress, that you are able to come home earlier than expected." "Really? ?" I asked, happy tears filling my eyes. "When will I get to go home?" Wiping tears away from his face, Dad smiled and said, "Our flight to Dallas leaves at 1:15 this afternoon." Letting the tears flow, Dad continued, "Honey, you are coming home today."