Also known as: Blocked intestine
Mary presents with severe abdominal pain and distension. Initial imaging shows classic loops indicating bowel obstruction, initially thought to be from previous appendectomy scarring.
Also known as: Roundworm infection
Mary is discovered to have a massive infestation of Ascaris lumbricoides (intestinal roundworms) causing her bowel obstruction. The worms are found throughout her intestines, some measuring up to 10 inches long, and are causing ulcerations. This diagnosis becomes a central plot point affecting her romantic relationship.
Also known as: Cancer spread to spine
Veronica is a pregnant cancer patient at 34 weeks who delayed cancer treatment to protect her baby. Her cancer has metastasized to her spine, causing spinal cord compression, severe back pain, and numbness. The diagnosis accelerates her prognosis from 7-8 months to 2-3 months.
Also known as: Blood clot in lung
Shortly after delivering her baby via C-section, Veronica develops a pulmonary embolism with secondary clot formation. She becomes tachycardic and hypoxic, requiring emergency embolectomy. She ultimately refuses the procedure due to her pre-signed DNR and dies on the table.
Also known as: Preterm delivery
Due to Veronica's advancing cancer and spinal cord compression, the medical team performs an emergency C-section at 34 weeks 3 days to deliver her baby safely before her condition deteriorates further.