human
This biggest pipe which goes downward from the heart is called the great artery, and it and its branches--just like a tree's--carry the blood into all parts of the body, except the lungs. Another name for it is the descending thoracic aorta, and that is where grandfather's trouble is. If you knew something about automobile tires I would explain it by saying that he had a blow-out, but it's something like this. The pipe has an outer surface and an inner lining. At one time or another something happened to injure and weaken the former--disease does it sometimes--perhaps it may have been a severe strain or crushing blow on his chest.
gpt
A big tree fell on him early last winter, cried Rose, with sudden enlightenment.
human
His chest is so big and strong that he didn't think that it hurt him, 'cept to lame him considerable.
gpt
That may have caused the trouble. Well, what happens is this. The blood is pumped by the heart through that weakened pipe, and, little by little, it forces the lining out through the weakened spot, making something like a bubble filled with blood. In time that might grow until you could actually see the swelling, and all the time, the containing tissue is getting thinner and thinner. Now you can yourself guess the reason why he mustn't do anything to over-exert his heart. Hard work, or great excitement, makes our hearts beat faster, and sends the blood through that big artery with extra force and ...
human
The bubble might ... break, whispered
gpt
Smiles,
human
Yes. We call it a rupture of the aneurism, and when that happens mortal life ends.
gpt
Oh, she shuddered slightly.
human
I must keep him very quiet, Doctor Mac. I am strong and can do all the work. You tell him that he mustn't do anything, please, doctor.
gpt
I'm not sure that that would be the wisest plan, Rose. He has been so strong and active all his life it would break his great heart to be tied down like an invalid. I'm sure that he would be happier doing things, even if as a result he didn't live quite so long. Don't you think so, yourself?
human
Of course he is so big and strong he can do common, simple tasks without anything like the amount of exertion required by an ordinary man, and, so long as he doesn't strain himself, or get very much excited, we may reasonably expect him to live for a good while yet. Besides, as the aneurism progresses there will come a steady, boring pain and increased shortness of breath, which will themselves help to keep him quiet.
gpt
But can't I give him some medicine?
human
The best medicine that he can possibly have will be your happy, comforting smile and tender love, my child.