Also known as: CF
Nine-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis who contracts the deadly Burkholderia cepacia bacteria, requiring isolation from her father and brother who also have CF. The episode centers on the impossible choice her father faces between staying with his dying daughter or protecting his younger son.
Also known as: CF
Father of Gracie and Julian who also has cystic fibrosis. Must be kept isolated from his daughter after she contracts B. cepacia to prevent his own infection and death.
Also known as: CF
Two-year-old son with cystic fibrosis who must be kept away from his sister to prevent B. cepacia transmission.
Also known as: B. cepacia
Gracie contracts this highly contagious and drug-resistant bacteria that is particularly deadly for CF patients. The doctors attempt experimental antibiotic therapy based on cancer treatment protocols, but it fails.
Also known as: Brain attack
Recently widowed 70-year-old woman recovering from a stroke with ongoing deficits. Her son wants her to move to Florida, but she refuses because she is in a long-term relationship with a woman and fears his reaction.
Also known as: Mini-stroke
Cynthia experiences a TIA during an emotionally stressful conversation with her son about moving, demonstrating her continued vulnerability to further strokes.
Also known as: Lung cancer
Charlotte's father is dying from lung cancer with terminal respiratory failure. Charlotte must make the decision to withdraw life support, which becomes a central emotional arc of the episode.
Also known as: Bladder infection
Violet develops cystitis from excessive sexual activity while sleeping with both Pete and Sheldon, providing comic relief and insight into her emotional avoidance.