Never Steady, Never Still

Judy and Ed live in a secluded community near Stuart Lake in British Columbia. They have raised their 18-year-old son Jamie while Judy has battled Parkinson's disease for 19 years, with Ed serving as her devoted caregiver.

Despite her debilitating condition, Judy attends a weekly Parkinson's support group to cope with her illness. This routine is essential for her to maintain some semblance of normalcy amidst her challenges.

Jamie often spends his free time with his best friend Danny, participating in leisurely activities such as smoking and playing hockey. However, Danny's departure to college leaves Jamie feeling lost and lonely.

Encouraged by Ed, Jamie seeks work in the Alberta oil fields but struggles to fit in with his boastful co-workers. They frequently discuss topics that make Jamie uncomfortable, leading him to question his identity and sexuality.

One afternoon, after returning from her support group, Judy discovers Ed face down in the water, having suffered a heart attack. This devastating event forces Jamie to return home, shoving him into a whirlwind of grief.

Upon returning for Ed's funeral, Jamie offers to care for Judy, but she insists that he should continue to pursue his own life. Judy, now alone, faces escalating challenges in her daily routines without Ed's support.

In Ed's absence, Judy fiercely fights to maintain her independence. She rises early to sit in a boat on the lake, reflecting on her memories with Ed as she struggles with her own daily tasks.

During a trip into town, Judy meets Kaly, a pregnant 17-year-old cashier at the grocery store. Kaly introduces Judy to a home delivery service, which becomes increasingly necessary as Judy’s medication mishaps begin to impact her driving.

In the wake of his father's death, Jamie falls into a dark place, turning to cocaine on job sites after a confrontation with his supervisor, Daryl. This behavior results in him walking away from his job, adding to his sense of loss and confusion.

After Jamie's turbulent encounters, he meets Kaly again during one of her deliveries. They engage in meaningful conversations about life, and Jamie opens up about the difficulties of witnessing his mother's decline.

In a moment of vulnerability, Jamie confesses his feelings for Danny to Kaly, who responds by kissing him. This leads to an intimate encounter in his car, providing a fleeting escape from his emotional turmoil.

After a night of connection with Kaly, Jamie returns home to find the house dark and Judy in distress. She is unable to escape a cold bath, having neglected her medication and requiring Jamie's assistance.

After helping Judy to bed, Jamie breaks down and expresses his frustration at not providing her medication sooner. Judy reassures him, stating that she should be the one supporting him, reigniting their bond.

At dawn, Judy wakes early to visit the icy lake where she converses with Ed in spirit. She wishes him a Merry Christmas, cherishing the memories they built together over the years.