Chapter 15
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After repeated experiments and data analysis, the cancer gene therapy project finally entered the clinical trial phase.
The director of the CERN research center, Dr. Heinrich Vogel, was extremely pleased with my work. He also recommended that I attend an international medical conference, the European Cancer Research Conference held in Paris.
"Dr. Rossi, your research is extremely valuable," he said sincerely.
Dr. Vogel was a kind, elderly German professor. "I believe that if this therapy succeeds, it will save countless lives. You should let more people know about your work."
I nodded and accepted his advice.
The conference was held in Paris.
When I stood at the podium at the Sorbonne, presenting my research findings to medical experts from around the world, I suddenly thought of many years ago.
I remembered standing at a Harvard symposium, presenting my first paper. Back then, I had been just as confident, just as full of hope. Later, because of marriage, I gave all of that up.
Now, I had finally found myself again.
When the presentation ended, the applause was thunderous. Many professors came over to speak with me, expressing a strong interest in my research.
Several top pharmaceutical companies, such as Roche and Novartis, also indicated their willingness to invest.
In that moment, I finally understood that I didn’t need to rely on anyone. I could shine on my own.
After the conference ended, I stayed in Paris for a few extra days. I went to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the banks of the Seine.
I did everything I had ever wanted to do.
At Cafe de Flore, I happened to see news from the United States.
"Falcone Pharmaceutical Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection; Dante Falcone Faces Federal Criminal Charges"
"Former 'Medical Prodigy' Olivia Ricci Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison, Fined Twenty Million Dollars"
I calmly finished my cafe au lait and turned off my phone. None of this had anything to do with me anymore.
