Bedside Manner

"Bedside Manner" by Joseph Samachson is a thought-provoking science fiction story about a woman's transformative journey after a spaceship disaster. She awakens to find herself rebuilt by an alien doctor unfamiliar with human forms, leading to moments of fear and uncertainty that define her new existence. Her reconstructive experience forces her to confront questions about identity, beauty, and the essence of her relationship with her husband, Fred. As she recovers, their dialogues expose vulnerabilities surrounding physical attraction and self-esteem. The story culminates in a resolution where these characters, although physically altered in unexpected ways, discover that true love surpasses superficial appearances, showcasing a powerful message of acceptance and the enduring strength of human connection.