Hidden Nature

Sloan’s recovery in Heron’s Rest demonstrates how loving family relationships provide a protective or healing influence, expand to include new elements, and offer a strong foundation for family members to thrive and grow. The strong bonds among the Cooper family ground the dramatic action and provide a safety net for each member of the family, demonstrating the importance of finding strength in family bonds.

While she is in the hospital recovering from her gunshot wound, Sloan’s family is a primary means of support for her survival. Her doctor reminds her, “People who love you make a difference. And you’re loved” (10). Elsie, Dean, Drea, and members of the extended family all offer their love and support, confirming to Sloan that her decision to return to her body during surgery was the right choice. Though she hates the thought of a long recovery, Sloan agrees to do the work because her family reinforces the doctor’s orders. Elsie and Dean bring her back to her childhood home, Drea insists she use the wheelchair when she is discharged from the hospital, and Elsie fusses about Sloan’s comfort and food intake, showing that they are committed to Sloan’s care and recovery.

One of Sloan’s lessons as a character is learning to rely on others while she is injured and weak, even though she cherishes her independence.