It is Kate's (played by Hilary Swank) 35th birthday. The day unfolds romantically as she shares an intimate moment with her husband, Evan (portrayed by Josh Duhamel), in the shower. Later that evening, they host an inviting dinner party for their closest friends. Given her talent, Kate impresses everyone by playing a captivating tune on the piano. However, the celebration takes a concerning turn when she experiences a sudden shaking of her hands.
Fast forward a year and a half, we are introduced to Bec (acted by Emmy Rossum), who awakens in bed with a man after a night of intimacy. She realizes she is running late for an important job interview. In a parallel narrative, we learn that Kate has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a devastating and progressive motor neuron disease that gradually robs her of motor skills, leading to paralysis and ultimately, death. As Kate struggles with her condition, Evan does his best to support her, even as they bring a caregiver into their home. Past caregivers have left Kate feeling more like a patient than a person, and she is determined to find someone who will understand her better.
When Bec arrives for the interview, her initial awkwardness with Evan does not deter Kate from hiring her, especially after she learns about Bec's personal experience caring for a relative with ALS. Soon, Bec's clumsiness becomes evident during her first day, as she faces the challenging task of helping Kate with basic needs, leading to an embarrassing fall.
Later, at the bar, Bec shares a night out with her best friend Jill (brought to life by Stephanie Beatriz). Despite her nerves about singing on stage, a chance encounter with Wil (portrayed by Jason Ritter) offers a spark of connection. However, in a moment of spite, she chooses to hook up with Liam (played by Julian McMahon), a professor from her past, fueling a chaotic emotional landscape.
As Bec’s struggles with personal demons mount—arriving late to work due to hangovers—she becomes more dedicated to assisting Kate. But when Kate discovers Evan's affair with his secretary Cynthia (played by Erin Chenoweth), tensions rise. This pushes Kate to confront her husband alongside Bec, who helps her regain a sense of agency.
In a series of poignant moments, Kate experiences escalating health issues, from coughing fits to impaired speech, turning down experimental medications. Despite the highs and lows, a bond between Bec and Kate deepens. They venture to a public pool, where encounters with a woman named Marilyn (portrayed by Loretta Divine) remind them both of the realities of their condition. Shared laughter and experiences solidify their friendship, even as romantic entanglements stir confusion in Bec's life.
Tragedy strikes as Kate's health worsens and she finds joy in fleeting moments, attending a party or enjoying simple gatherings with friends and family. Yet, amidst the laughter, the shadow of mortality looms large. They share an emotional Thanksgiving together with friends, featuring moments of tenderness and laughter that brings them closer.
As Kate's body deteriorates, the struggle with her illness becomes more pronounced, drawing in family drama that fuels further conflict. Despite the weighty conversations surrounding her care preferences, Kate and Bec remain devoted to each other, sharing intimate and heartfelt conversations about life and loss. When the inevitable arrives, it shatters those close to her.
In her final moments, Kate expresses a heartfelt wish for Bec—to find someone who truly sees her. Following Kate's passing, Bec sits with Wil, implying a continuity of life and resilience. The film concludes with a powerful visual—a reflection of hope, alongside the echo of Bec's voice as she performs again at the bar, honoring her friend's legacy.
