Summary

In Chapter 20, “Hail Mary,” Dr. Girum is able to source drugs from many different countries and charities to treat Henry. He knows that his success in treating Henry will determine whether anyone else in Sierra Leone ever receives personalized treatment again. Meanwhile, Henry, who is in between treatments, tries to stave off his depression and loneliness by writing poetry. All of the same forces that led him to contract this 19th century disease in the 21st century (racism, poverty, civil war) prevent him from being treated the same as as the 19th century poets with their “flattering malady.” He is anxious, because even if the drugs cure his tuberculosis, his body may still be too damaged to full heal.

In Chapter 21, “Like Magic,” Henry’s drugs finally arrive through the work of multiple international partners. He heals enough that he is able...