I started this movie off but Alvin got on my nerves so bad I stopped watching it and waited a couple more weeks. He wasn't just cantankerous, he was mean. I was so glad to see his attitude get better while preserving his spirit. The actors did an excellent job - absolutely excellent. I could tell what they would be going through as patients, as the girlfriend losing her love, as the care givers who deal with love and loss and pain every day. I don't know if LeVar Burton has went through something like this with a loved one but compassion and feeling came through with his directing of this film. I'm really, really glad I stuck with it and kept watching - and you will be too.