They called the hospital janitor into the board meeting as a prank… but when she revealed her diagnosis, it left everyone utterly stunned!

Rachel was a dedicated nurse and the main breadwinner of her family. But her family’s problems weren’t the only burdens she faced. One of her colleagues, Christina, harbored personal anger and jealousy toward her. One day, a millionaire named Mr. Hamilton was admitted to the hospital where Rachel worked. All the nurses were afraid of him because of his short temper. But when Rachel was assigned to Mr. Hamilton, she quickly earned his trust.

They Invited the Hospital Janitor to the Board Meeting as a Joke… But Her Diagnosis Left Everyone Speechless!
Until one day, Mr. Hamilton asked Rachel for a favor, something he wanted to fulfill before leaving this world. And that was for Rachel to pretend to be his daughter for just one day. Would Rachel grant Mr. Hamilton’s request? Would Rachel ever escape the hardships she was going through? This is Mr. Hope once again, inviting you to listen to another extraordinary true-life story.

The air outside felt cold when Rachel stepped out of the hospital. The sky was dark, and only the street lamps lit her path. It was nearly eleven at night, yet her day wasn’t over.

She still had to catch a bus home to the tiny room she rented in an old apartment building. Rachel had been working as a nurse in a private hospital for almost three years. While waiting at the bus stop, she pulled out her phone and called her mother.

After a few seconds, her mother answered. Rachel, my child, you called, what’s the matter? Her mother asked. Mum, how are you? Rachel asked.

Even though she was tired, she smiled upon hearing her mother’s voice. She heard a faint cough from her mother before she answered. I’m hanging in there, but my body’s a bit sore.

Your siblings are already asleep. Thank you, by the way, for the money you sent last week. Good thing we managed to pay their tuition.

Her mother’s tone was grateful. Please remind them to study hard, okay? I’m sorry I haven’t been able to send more lately, Rachel said. My last paycheck wasn’t enough, but I promise to make up for it next week.

That’s all right, honey. I feel embarrassed because I’m afraid there’s never anything left for you. Don’t work yourself to the bone.

I know you’re the only one supporting us, but I hope you also think about yourself, her mother said, voice full of concern. Rachel closed her eyes and stopped her tears from falling. She wanted to tell her mother how tight things were and how she was barely surviving, but she chose not to because she didn’t want her family to worry about her.

I’m okay, mum. How about Ethan? How’s his girlfriend? Rachel asked, changing the subject. Oh, that’s another piece of our problem.

The girlfriend’s family wants them to get married right away. I told them we don’t have the money yet. I don’t know what your brother was thinking.

He’s still in school, and now she’s pregnant, Rachel’s mum said, clearly annoyed. Let’s not dwell on it, mum. It’s already done.

I’ll start saving so they can get married, and we can cover her prenatal care. All right, mum. There’s a bus coming.

I’ll call you again in a day or two, Rachel said. Okay, honey. Take care, her mother replied, then ended the call.

Rachel took a deep breath afterward. The truth was, she was exhausted, but she had no choice but to keep going, for someone like her, who was the sole provider, being tired or taking a break wasn’t an option. The bus arrived, and she quickly flagged it down.

She got on, and as it drove away, she reminded herself again why she was working so hard. She longed to give her family a better life. By the time Rachel reached her apartment, she was completely worn out from a more than 12-hour hospital shift.

She’d been going around the ward all day, monitoring patients with hardly any break. She wanted only one thing at that moment, to collapse on her small mattress and steal a few hours of sleep. But she stopped short upon seeing the door to her rented room.

It was locked with thick chains wrapped around the knob, and secured by a heavy padlock. Rachel frowned in confusion. She hurried to knock on the door of her landlord, Mrs. Pauler, a plump woman who wore glasses and loved cheap jewelry.

She knocked three times, but there was no answer. She glanced around, hoping someone else could explain what happened, but the entire building was silent. She knocked again, louder.

Mrs. Pauler, it’s me, Rachel, she called. Moments later, the door opened, and out came Mrs. Pauler, still holding a fork with a piece of hot dog on it. What is it? You’re interrupting my dinner, Mrs. Pauler snapped.

Why is my door chained and locked? Rachel asked, baffled. Mrs. Pauler sighed heavily and leaned against her door frame. Haven’t you realized you haven’t paid rent in three months? Our agreement was if you haven’t paid for three months, you have to leave.

Did you forget, or are you just hoping I’d overlook it? She said, rolling her eyes. Mrs. Pauler, I’m so sorry. I had to send money home.

I was hoping you could give me at least one more week so I can pay everything I owe. Rachel begged. Mrs. Pauler shook her head firmly.

No can do, Rachel. I’m losing money here. You keep promising you’ll pay next time, but it never happens.

I’m not running a charity, this is a business. Mrs. Pauler, please, at least let me stay until tomorrow. I just got off work, I’m exhausted, and I have nowhere else to sleep tonight.

Rachel said, her voice cracking and tears threatening to fall. I don’t care. All your stuff is out in the hallway by your door.

Take it away because if it’s still there tomorrow morning, I’ll burn it. Mrs. Pauler retorted harshly, then slammed her door shut, leaving Rachel stunned and clueless about what to do next. She walked to the side of the building and nearly burst into tears seeing her things.

A worn out suitcase, some clothes stuffed in a grocery bag, a small pillow, a blanket, and a thin mattress, all piled on the ground. She slowly sat beside her belongings. She felt like crying but couldn’t.

She tilted her head back, gazing at the dark sky as the chilly air nipped at her already exhausted body. She was deeply anxious because she truly didn’t know where to go that night. After regaining a bit of composure, Rachel began moving her things onto the sidewalk.

She placed her small suitcase beside a street lamp, slid the bag of clothes between her old pillow and a piece of cardboard she used as a mat, and stacked them near the weak yet chilly glow of the lamp. She looked around, everything was quiet and there were no people around to ask for help or information. Rachel sighed.

Her family was back in another state, and even if she wanted to return there, she didn’t have the bus fare. She couldn’t go back to the hospital to sleep either because of their strict policy. Then she remembered her friend, Emily, who was also a nurse at the same hospital.

She hurriedly took out her phone and dialed her best friend’s number. The phone rang several times before Emily finally answered. Rachel? Your voice sounds strange.

Are you okay? Emily said, clearly groggy from being woken up. I’m really sorry for disturbing you. I… I got evicted.

I’m out on the street with all my stuff, Emily. I’m desperate enough to ask if I can stay at your place for a while. I don’t know where else to go, Rachel said, her voice trembling with tears.

Of course, Rach. Don’t go anywhere. I’ll have dad drive me over so we can pick you up.

It’d be hard for you to ride the bus with all your things, and I know you’re exhausted, Emily replied, concern evident in her voice. Thank you so much, Emily. I can’t tell you how sorry I am for the trouble.

I’m so embarrassed, but I just have no choice. Rachel whispered, tears escaping as she spoke. Stop apologizing.

You’re not a bother. Just stay put, and we’ll be there soon, Emily said. Thank you, Emily, Rachel murmured.

After the call, she sat quietly beside her suitcase, hugging herself against the cold. Even in her desperation, she felt slightly relieved knowing she wasn’t completely alone. She had a friend like Emily who was willing to help.

Nearly half an hour later, she heard the sputtering engine of a vehicle. She stood up and saw an old pickup truck turning onto her street. Despite the darkness, she recognized Emily and her father.

The truck stopped in front of her, and Rachel hurried over to Emily. She couldn’t stop herself from giving her friend a tight hug. Thank you, Emily.

I’m sorry I bothered you, Rachel said tearfully. Don’t be silly, Rachel. You’re no bother.

Let’s not talk about that, Emily said, patting her on the back. Emily’s father, Mr. Larry, got out of the truck and helped them load Rachel’s things. After securing her belongings, they all climbed back inside, driving away from that place.

During the ride, Rachel was silent. She wanted to say so many things, but felt like she had no energy left. When they arrived at a small corner lot, the truck slowed before finally stopping in front of a modest house made of wood and sheet metal.

Walking inside, Rachel saw three children sleeping in the living room. Emily’s younger siblings, sound asleep on a thin mattress. Come on, you can sleep in my room, Emily said, gesturing for Rachel to follow.

Rachel sighed in relief and nodded. Once inside Emily’s small room, they placed Rachel’s belongings in a corner. A single electric fan provided the only breeze.

Have you eaten? Emily asked. Yes, I ate at the hospital, Rachel replied. Are you sure? I think we’ve got some bread in the kitchen, Emily insisted.

No, I’m fine. Really, I’m still full, Rachel said, shaking her head. Emily nodded, then sat on her bed, urging Rachel to sit down.

Okay, then you should get some sleep. I know you’re tired, Emily said softly. At that point, Rachel couldn’t hold back anymore.

All her emotions poured out. Her struggles as a breadwinner, her fear of having nowhere to stay, her loneliness in New York City. She pressed her hands to her face, trying to stifle her sobs.

Emily, I’m so tired, it feels like problems just keep piling up, Rachel whispered through tears. Emily stayed quiet and let Rachel release the weight in her heart. I know it’s hard, but you’re not alone, Rachel.

I’m here and so is my family. We won’t abandon you, Emily murmured comfortingly. In that moment, Rachel found a small sense of peace.

In the midst of all her hardships, having a loyal friend was a precious gift. From that night on, she temporarily stayed with Emily’s family. Though Rachel missed having her own place, the warmth and care Emily’s family showed made the transition easier.

There was no trouble at all, as Emily’s family already knew Rachel well. Emily’s dad, Mr. Larry, always greeted her with a smile, and often asked if she’d eaten. Emily’s mom, Mrs. Linda, despite being busy with a little convenience store, always made sure Rachel had breakfast.

Even Emily’s three younger siblings were fond of Rachel, especially the youngest, Benny, who often showed off his cute antics to her. Rachel and Emily had only been friends for two years, but Rachel felt like they’d known each other forever. They first met when they were both new nurses, assigned to the same ward.

Rachel still recalled how overwhelmed she’d been on her first day, barely knowing what to do in the flurry of tasks. Emily had noticed and immediately offered help. Emily’s cheerful personality made Rachel feel at ease right away.

Over the following days, they began sharing breaks, going out to buy cheap meals during their shift, and commuting home together whenever their schedules aligned. Aside from the grueling workload, Rachel also dealt with difficult co-workers, some even harder to handle than patients, like Tiffany. Tiffany was another nurse, but she was arrogant and liked to flaunt power because her aunt happened to be the head nurse of their department.

Because of that, Tiffany acted as if she had a special status in the hospital, a status she used to make others, especially Rachel, feel inferior. One night, as soon as Rachel entered the nurses’ station, Tiffany greeted her with a sneer, like she’d been waiting for her arrival. Oh, you’re finally here.

I thought you quit or something, given that you haven’t paid your rent in months. Don’t be shocked, I know about it. This hospital is a hotbed for gossip.

Poor you, Rachel, Tiffany said mockingly. Rachel paused from picking up the logbook, aware that other nurses were watching but unwilling to intervene. She tightened her grip on her pen and pretended not to hear Tiffany’s remark.

Tiffany, could you hand me the chart for the patient in room 208, she asked calmly. Wow, you’re giving me orders. Maybe you’ve forgotten we’re not on the same level, Tiffany snapped.

Fine, I’ll get it myself, Rachel said, deciding not to argue. She was used to Tiffany’s behavior by now. Tiffany’s animosity toward Rachel had started when a male nurse pursued Rachel.

Rachel had no idea Tiffany liked him, and since Rachel wasn’t interested in a relationship, she’d turned him down. Even though nothing had ever transpired between them, Tiffany remained bitter about it. Rachel then devoted herself to her rounds, checking in on patients.

She was used to exhaustion and lack of sleep. While noting a patient’s vital signs, she felt a tap on her shoulder. Turning around, she saw Emily.

Rach, is it true Tiffany gave you an attitude again? Emily asked quietly, sounding concerned. Yes, but it’s nothing new, Rachel replied, not bothering to elaborate. She’s so unpleasant.

Obviously she’s bitter because Patrick showed an interest in you and not her, Emily said, rolling her eyes. Rachel was about to respond when a sharp voice interrupted them. What are you two whispering about, Emily? You calling me bitter? Tiffany’s voice rang out.

Rachel and Emily turned to see her standing behind them. Arms crossed, eyebrow arched, waiting for an explanation. Emily smirked instead of shrinking back.

Oh, Tiffany, I’m sorry, we didn’t notice you. Maybe you want to run to your aunt and tell on us? Emily teased, eyes gleaming. Rachel saw Tiffany’s eyes narrow with rage.

Don’t think I can’t have you both fired, Tiffany spat. As long as we’re doing our jobs right, we’re safe, Tiffany, Rachel said quietly. Tiffany visibly trembled with anger, but they didn’t give her the chance to retaliate.

They walked away, leaving her seething. The next morning, Rachel and Emily had just clocked out from their night shift and were alone in the locker room. Rachel was preparing to head home, the soft whir of the fan’s the only sound.

Suddenly, Rachel’s phone rang. Seeing it was her mother, she answered immediately. Hello, mom, is everything okay? Rachel greeted.

Rachel, sorry to call at this hour. I know you probably just finished your shift, but could you possibly send money today? Your brother’s girlfriend needs a checkup. She’s pregnant, you know, her mother said, sounding embarrassed.

Rachel bit her lip and shut her eyes tightly. Mom, I don’t have any money right now, but please don’t worry. I’ll find a way, she promised.

Thank you, child. I’m really sorry to keep asking. We have no one else to turn to, her mother said softly.

It’s okay, mom. I’ll send it later today. Take care, okay? Rachel finished, then ended the call.

She slumped on the bench. Her chest felt heavy. She set down her phone and rubbed her temples.

The door opened and Emily walked in. Oh, Rach, you haven’t gone to sleep yet. You look so stressed.

Is there a problem? Emily asked, sitting next to her. Rachel let out a slow breath. That was mom.

She needs money for my brother’s girlfriend’s checkup, she said. Emily didn’t hesitate. She walked to her bag, pulled out her wallet, and handed Rachel some cash.

Here, use this, Emily said. Rachel was stunned and immediately shook her head. Emily, I can’t accept that.

I haven’t even paid back what I owe you. I should borrow from someone else, Rachel replied. No way.

With other people, you’ll owe interest. With me, you won’t. I know you can’t abandon your family, so don’t overthink it.

Just take it, Emily insisted, taking Rachel’s hand and pressing the money into her palm. Thank you so much, Emily, Rachel murmured, tears forming in her eyes. Enough of that or we’ll both end up crying.

Let’s just get some rest. We have the day off tomorrow. Time for a longer break, Emily said, flopping onto the bed.

After that one day off, Rachel and Emily’s shifts changed to a daytime schedule. Having just come off the night shift for several weeks, morning duty now felt heavier in a different way. The hospital was busier during the day.

More patients, more rounds, and more people to manage. At lunchtime, they went to the cafeteria together. They hadn’t started eating when Rachel noticed Emily was unusually silent.

Emily, what’s on your mind? Rachel asked, opening the container of chicken and rice she’d brought. I have gossip, Emily whispered, leaning closer. You and your gossip again? Rachel teased.

No, this is real. You know Mr. Hamilton is confined here, right? Emily’s eyes went wide. Who is he? Rachel asked, brow furrowed.

Emily almost choked. Seriously? You’ve never heard of Mr. Hamilton? She asked in disbelief. Rachel shook her head and continued eating.

If I knew who he was, I wouldn’t be asking, she replied. Mr. Hamilton is one of the richest businessmen in the country. He owns big hotels, restaurants, and who knows what else.

He’s so wealthy, the entire hospital must be in a frenzy trying to accommodate him. The doctors and the administrators are probably bending over backward to cater to him, Emily said, sighing dramatically. Okay, and what about it? We’re assigned to the ward so it’s not like we’ll be dealing with him? Rachel answered with a shrug.

You never know. Fate might say otherwise, Emily teased before taking a sip of water. Rachel said nothing, continuing her meal.

Several hours later, their shift ended and they headed to the locker area. As soon as they stepped in, they sensed a tense atmosphere. A few nurses surrounded Tiffany, trying to calm her down as she wept.

A noticeable bump marked her forehead and her face was flushed with anger and tears. Rachel and Emily stopped, exchanging confused looks before looking back at Tiffany. They didn’t have to ask what happened because Tiffany launched into a loud tirade, complaining to the other nurses.

Mr. Hamilton threw a cup at me because the water I brought him wasn’t cold enough. Can you believe that old man’s nerve? Just because he’s rich, he thinks he can treat us however he wants. Tiffany sobbed.

Some of the nurses reacted with sympathy, while others stayed silent, clearly afraid of being caught in Tiffany’s rage. Tiffany happened to glance at Rachel and Emily, shooting them a furious glare. What are you looking at? she shouted, and Emily simply rolled her eyes.

Wow, now it’s our fault you got a bruise, Emily muttered. They gathered their belongings and left. Once outside, Emily laughed.

Did you see that? She looked like a rhino with a horn on her forehead. Maybe next time she’ll get two horns, that’s what she gets for being so nasty. Emily joked, still giggling, but Rachel didn’t join in.

We really shouldn’t mock her, Em. Yes, she’s rude, but it’s not right to be happy about anyone’s misfortune, she said. Emily sighed.

Rachel, you’re too nice. If you ask me, she deserves it. At least she met her match.

She can’t hide behind her aunt forever, Emily said, shaking her head. Rachel sighed, unable to ignore her own sympathy. No matter how difficult Tiffany could be, Rachel couldn’t celebrate seeing someone get hurt.

With each passing day, Mr. Hamilton became the biggest topic in the hospital. Everywhere Rachel went, she overheard new stories about him. How he shouted at people for trivial reasons, or harmed them verbally or physically.

Each day brought a new tale from a nurse who’d been ill-treated by the wealthy old man. One was scolded for positioning his pillow incorrectly. Another was cursed at until she cried.

Rachel grew more uneasy with every story she heard, despite never having seen Mr. Hamilton in person. She was just relieved she hadn’t been assigned to his case, and wondered how long her luck would hold. In a hospital, assignments could change in a heartbeat, and a nurse might suddenly face the unexpected.

It was near the end of Rachel’s shift one day, when a senior nurse asked her to deliver some papers to the head nurse’s office on the fourth floor. Rachel promptly obeyed, taking the elevator upstairs. The corridor there was quiet and removed from the ward’s usual bustle.