Nora, afflicted by illness, was hospitalized. Every day, she endured five hours of torment from the disease, all while figuring out ways to ensure the health of her baby. Fortunately, the baby was resilient. Even with the mother carrying cancer, it thrived inside her womb. She found happiness in this, and she had the confidence that the child would be born healthy and strong.

Seated in front of a mirror, Nora combed her hair. With each stroke, a handful of hair would fall out. Her ...