Joe Bell

In May 2013, Joe Bell embarks on a reflective journey along a desolate highway, seeking solace in the open road. He reaches out to his wife, Lola, to share the details of his day, beginning his path towards self-discovery and healing.

During Joe's peaceful drive, his tranquility is shattered when a speeding bus forces him to divert his course. This unexpected detour leads him to a local high school where he is scheduled to give a speech about tolerance and acceptance.

As Joe delivers his speech, he passionately describes the long-lasting effects of bullying while advocating for understanding. Unbeknownst to him, his son Jadin observes from the back, grappling with his own secret struggles amidst the heartfelt message.

After the presentation, Joe and Jadin opt for a camping night along the highway, embracing the serenity yet haunted by past regrets. Their bond is momentarily strengthened as they reflect on their relationship under the starry sky and the distant sounds of vehicles.

That night, a flashback transports viewers to nine months prior when Jadin confided in Joe about the relentless bullying he faced at school. Instead of providing comfort, Joe mistakenly urges him to retaliate, echoing misguided notions of masculinity.

Jaid's mother, Lola, confronts Joe about his failure to understand the gravity of Jadin's situation. This confrontation exposes deep-seated tensions in their relationship while highlighting the contrasting approaches they hold towards their son's unique struggles.

In a sunlit yard in La Grande, Oregon, Jadin thrives as he embraces cheerleading. However, Joe's embarrassment over Jadin's passion leads to a confrontation that reveals a rift in their father-son relationship and Joe's difficulty in accepting his son's identity.

As weeks pass, Joe experiences profound internal conflict, culminating in a heartfelt apology to Jadin. He vows to change and professes his unconditional love, marking a significant step towards mending their fractured relationship during their travels.

While taking a break on their journey, Joe and Jadin engage in a playful debate about their hometowns. This light-hearted moment leads into a spontaneous sing-along of Lady Gaga's 'Born This Way,' highlighting their strong bond through music and shared laughter.

During a pit stop at a diner, Joe's presence is recognized by a waitress, hinting at his growing notoriety from media coverage regarding his initiative. This moment forges an unexpected bridge between past events and present societal conversations about same-sex marriage.

At the diner, Joe faces derogatory remarks from a patron, prompting him to confront the negativity head-on. He speaks about his mission—a Walk for Inclusion—illustrating his dedication to combat bullying despite the challenge of societal attitudes.

The narrative shifts to Jadin's continuous battle against bullying, detailing his painful experiences at school. An encounter with a football player named Chance emphasizes Jadin's vulnerabilities and the emotional toll of social acceptance.

The tumultuous journey reaches a devastating climax when Jadin's struggles lead to the heartbreaking discovery of his suicide note. This harrowing moment marks a distinct turning point, engulfing Joe and the family in overwhelming grief.

In the aftermath of Jadin's tragic death, Joe resolves to walk across America to raise awareness about bullying. His journey becomes a mission of remembrance dedicated to his son, engaging with others who share their stories of struggle.

As Joe's journey unfolds, he forms a bond with Sheriff Westin, who shares in the grief of losing loved ones. This connection deepens Joe's understanding of compassion and serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of connection and healing through shared pain.