The narrator, Maze, shares her story of growing up in the West Bank with parents who were medical professionals. She had a close relationship with her father, but her mother was often busy and distant. Maze had an excellent memory and was known for remembering things. She was often teased by her aunt, who favored her cousin, Saham. Maze's life took a turn when her mother went missing for a few weeks, and upon her return, Maze discovered that her mother was caring for a sick boy. This sparked Maze's interest in becoming a doctor.
Maze's determination to become a doctor only grew stronger, despite her cousin's constant mocking. However, her life was put on hold when she was diagnosed with bone cancer. With the support of her family, Maze underwent treatment and eventually became cancer-free, although she was left with a permanent limp.
Maze's hard work paid off when she was accepted into a top-ranking medical school in the US on a full scholarship. Despite initial doubts from her family, particularly her aunt, Maze's mother stood up for her and supported her decision to pursue her dream.
In the US, Maze faced cultural shock but eventually settled in with the help of her new friend, Kylie. Maze excelled in medical school, and her sister even joined her in the US, pursuing her master's degree. The story concludes with Maze reflecting on her journey, citing hope, passion, and patience as the key factors that helped her overcome obstacles and achieve her dream of becoming a doctor.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The narrator, Maze, was born in the West Bank as the youngest of four siblings.
2. Maze's parents were medical professionals, with her mom being a nurse and her dad being a lab technician.
3. Maze's mom worked long hours and was often quiet and distant, while her dad was more attentive and spent time with her.
4. Maze's parents would often drop her off at her grandma's house before going to work.
5. Maze's aunt would often criticize her mom and make negative comments about her.
6. Maze's mom would sometimes leave for weeks at a time without explanation, causing Maze to feel worried and confused.
7. Maze discovered that her mom was visiting a sick boy and caring for him, which helped Maze understand her mom's behavior.
8. Maze attended an all-girls school and was a diligent student, while her cousin, Saham, was more interested in boys and fashion.
9. Maze was diagnosed with bone cancer, but was able to undergo treatment and recover.
10. Maze's experience with cancer made her more determined to become a doctor and help others.
11. Maze applied to medical schools in the US and was accepted to a top-ranking school on full scholarship.
12. Maze's family was proud of her achievement, but her aunt was skeptical and critical.
13. Maze left for the US to start medical school, feeling both excited and homesick.
14. Maze made friends with a girl named Kylie, who became her closest friend and helped her adjust to life in the US.
15. Maze experienced cultural shock and struggled to adjust to life in the US, but eventually settled in and made new friends.
16. Kylie had to leave due to her dad's illness, but Maze was surprised by a visit from her sister, who had also been accepted to a college in the US.
17. Maze is currently in her second year of medical school, pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor.