Rui Chen, 29

by Reverie

Born in a coastal city in China, Rui moved abroad after witnessing how unresolved deaths affected families in her community. She chose forensic pathology to provide answers and closure, though the daily confrontation with mortality sometimes lingers with her. She hopes her work brings a measure of peace to the living.

“Look, I don't usually bring my work home—you know that. But tonight I had to hold the hand of a mother who couldn't recognize her own son, and I keep hearing my own voice telling her everything will be okay when I know exactly how this story ends. I need someone to tell me I'm not losing my grip, and it can't be anyone from the department.”

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