Stronger

Jeff Bauman is introduced as a kind-hearted but struggling employee at a Costco deli counter. He lives in a cramped apartment with his alcoholic mother, Patty, illustrating his challenging life circumstances in Boston.

In a local bar, Jeff runs into his ex-girlfriend, Erin, who is drawn to his kindness despite his reluctance to commit. This chance meeting reignites their relationship as Erin shares her plans to run the Boston Marathon.

Motivated by Erin's charity run for her hospital job, Jeff rallies support from the bar patrons to donate. He promises Erin that he will hold a large sign for her at the finish line, demonstrating his dedication to her.

On the day of the Boston Marathon, Jeff makes his way to the finish line to support Erin. His anticipation builds as he prepares to cheer her on, unaware of the tragedy about to unfold.

As Erin nears the finish line, a bomb detonates at the spot where Jeff is standing, resulting in chaos and destruction. Jeff suffers severe injuries, leading to a critical moment in the story as he is rushed to the hospital.

Following the explosion, Jeff undergoes life-saving surgery at the hospital, which results in both of his legs being amputated above the knee. He awakens to the grim reality of his injuries and begins his journey of recovery.

Upon regaining consciousness, Jeff informs his brother that he saw the bomber before the explosion. This pivotal moment leads to Patty contacting the FBI, as Jeff's information becomes crucial in the investigation.

Jeff's description of the bomber, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, aids law enforcement in capturing Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. This act of bravery elevates Jeff to local hero status, drawing significant media attention to him.

Adaptation to his newfound fame proves to be a challenge for Jeff as Patty arranges multiple media interviews. The constant spotlight and pressure begin to weigh heavily on his mental health, complicating his recovery.

Invited by the Boston Bruins to attend a playoff game, Jeff waves a flag amidst cheering fans. However, he experiences traumatic flashbacks of the bombing, leading to an emotional breakdown in an elevator.

As Jeff struggles with PTSD, tensions arise between Erin and Patty over media involvement and its effects on Jeff. The situation escalates into a confrontation, revealing deep-rooted issues regarding Jeff's mental health.

While out drinking with his brothers, Jeff gets involved in a bar fight sparked by conspiracy theories surrounding the bombing. This incident reflects his ongoing struggles and contributes to his rising frustration and anger.

Erin shares the news of her pregnancy with Jeff, who reacts with panic, admitting he feels unprepared for fatherhood. This revelation leads to a distance between them, as Erin leaves him in distress, highlighting Jeff's fears.

In a chance encounter, Jeff meets Carlos, a man who played a crucial role in his survival after the bombing. Carlos shares his story of loss and healing, inspiring Jeff to confront his own challenges and seek a new path.

In a heartwarming gesture, Jeff and Carlos throw the first pitch at a Boston Red Sox game. This moment marks a significant milestone in Jeff's recovery and public acknowledgment of his journey.

The story culminates as Patty drops Jeff off for a date with Erin at a diner, where he walks independently using his prosthetics for the first time. This moment symbolizes Jeff's progress and hope for the future alongside Erin.