The walk to the clinic felt longer than usual.
Richard leaned heavily on us as we moved slowly down the street.
Every few steps he had to stop and catch his breath.
His coughing hadn’t stopped.
People passing by looked at us curiously, but no one asked questions.
Praise walked ahead quietly, opening the gate when we finally reached the clinic yard.
Inside, the waiting room was crowded.
People were sitting on the benches, some holding babies, others coughing or talking softly among themselves.
We helped Richard sit down.
He leaned forward, trying to control his breathing.
A nurse behind the desk looked up.
“What’s wrong with him?” she asked.
“He’s been coughing badly and he can barely breathe,” I said.
She stood up immediately and came closer.
Richard suddenly started coughing
