Ed Kendall and elaine do have more than their share of grief and suffering. Once a couple in love they struggle within their Staten Island home to get a feeling of equilibrium. Their eldest son is afflicted by the psychological and physical results of warfare. His younger brother takes it upon himself to bring him relief and peace. Meanwhile, their special needs daughter brings yet another kind of chaos to the family. They're really hanging on to hope that things improve even though Ed and Elaine explore alternatives for her care.