Renee Peerless has spent nearly nine months of her pregnancy alone while her husband serves with the military in Iraq. His absence is made more difficult by the knowledge that their baby in utero has a serious heart defect and will need surgery within days of being born. A story of courage and hope, viewers will recognize the universal themes of motherhood, duty and determination that summon the best from us in difficult situations. John "JD" Daniels is a chief cardiothoracic resident. His own father's life-saving heart surgery set him on a course to become a doctor. His commitment to his chosen profession is total but the strains that long hours place on his young family are evident. Amanda Grabowski was ER "nurse of the year." Her innocent good looks conceal a tart-tongued, no-nonsense pro who deploys a lacerating wit when needed to keep colleagues and patients in line.