Kevin's eyes narrowed. "And if she doesn't wake up?"
The doctor took a slow breath. "Then we will have to consider the possibility of a prolonged disorder of consciousness. In the worst-case scenario, she could remain in a vegetative state or another severe state of impaired consciousness."
For the first time, something shifted in Kevin's expression. It was small, but the doctor noticed it. "A vegetative state?"
"It means her body may continue to maintain some basic functions, such as breathing with medical support and having sleep-wake cycles, while she remains unaware of herself and her surroundings."
Kevin stared at the doctor. "So you're saying she could survive and still not really be fine?"
The doctor nodded slowly. "That is one possible outcome, yes. But it is far too early to say that this will happen to her." The doctor felt the need to say something positive.
