course, means it is a compound that resembles opium and its addictive properties or physiological effects. It was created for cancer pain that was not controlled by other medications. In other words, it was never meant to be prescribed for headaches or pain after surgery. It’s very potent, very addictive, and has multiple side effects.”
“With such power and strength, Dr. Chaudra, isn’t it very risky to use, even for cancer pain?”
Nodding, she said, “Absolutely. Very risky. But, originally, it was for the pain management of someone who was at the end of their life.”
Understanding dawned, and her breath rushed from her lungs. “Oh, I see. We often hear of morphine being used to help someone who’s in a great deal of pain at the end of their life to pass more peacefully.”
“Yes, and for some patients, morphine and other opioids are not enough.”
They continued talking for several more minutes about the research and development aspect of pharmaceuticals, but a niggling question remained in Kimberly’s mind. Uncertain how the topic could be perceived, she knew she had nothing to lose by asking. “Dr. Chaudra, do you sometimes find an ethical dilemma in your research? I’m thinking specifically of fentanyl. Its original use was very narrow in focus, and yet has exploded into the world of illicit drugs.”
Dr. Chaudra's lips pinched ever so slightly as she nodded. “What you have to understand is in research and development we are focused on finding the chemical combinations that can be used to help. That help might be a cure or a treatment. When researching, we constantly hope to use chemistry to assist. Yes, there are those out there that will take our research and products, not use it according to our standards or even duplicate it illegally. Doctors all across the world began prescribing fentanyl as a go-to pain reliever for patients that never should have experienced it. Illegal drug manufacturers began duplicating the chemical process. And, of course, drug dealers will steal the prescription medicine and sell it on the black market.”
“And adding it to heroin and other drugs?”
“From a biochemical standpoint, this makes the drug much more potent. Someone taking it will become addicted much quicker, and with no regulations on illegal drugs, it will be sold and used at will. Am I aware that people do these things? Yes. But in answer to your original question, Ms. Hogan, I’m still going to continue my pharmaceutical and biochemistry research and development to find the combinations that cure or treat patients.”
The sincerity resonating from Dr. Chaudra moved through Kimberly. “Thank you so much for talking to me today. I’d love to showcase you in one of my stories. I think you’re an inspiration, especially for little girls who are interested in science.”
With the heavy part of the interview over, she shook Dr. Chaudra’s hand and accepted the invitation to have the assistant give her a more detailed tour of the facility. She jumped at the opportunity to speak to more of the researchers and workers on the front line.
Once she was back in her office, she continued to scribble notes of what she’d seen and who she’d spoken to. With one eye on the clock, she leaped from her chair as soon as her day was over. With Marcus’ laughter and well wishes ringing in her ears, she hurried out to her car.
Now, two hours later, she felt foolish standing by her front window, looking out as she waited for Kyle to drive up. Geez, you’d think I never go out on a date! The truth was it had been a while since she’d been on a date that she was excited about. She had rushed home, showered, dried her hair in soft waves, and applied makeup with a light hand. That had been the easy part. The hard part has been deciding what to wear.
She had sent a text to Kyle asking how to dress, and in a typical guy manner, he replied with one word—casual.
Casual? That could be a dress or jeans or anything in between. She knew he had sisters and couldn’t believe that he didn’t realize her question had great import. Checking the weather app, she discovered they were in for a slightly cool evening so she decided on a dress with a little length while showcasing her figure. Over the top, she added a light denim jacket. Foregoing heels, she slipped on platform sandals that looked cute but didn’t make her feel as though she was going to