Chapter 24 Summary

Davey begins to like candy striping and she looks forward to spending time with Mr. Ortiz. He is the patient she met on her first day and the only one who has remained there since. Davey doesn't understand, but appreciates his high spirits in light of the fact that he is dying. She isn't prepared for the day she will have to accept his death. It hurts Davey to watch his condition worsening. Nonetheless, every week Davey saves Mr. Ortiz' room for last so they can spend time together. He likes her to tell him about school and because he believes Davey has a swimmer's build he encourages her to try out for the swim team. Davey knows that she doesn't swim well but tells Mr. Ortiz that she would consider it. He always regretted not learning to swim and proudly lived through...