Q: Why is it important for this story to be told today?

A: “The healthcare industry is growing, there are more and more jobs available, and there is temptation to enter the field and earn a steady paycheck. I think this story is timely because it addresses the failures of the professionals who breeze through their courses on bedside manner, thinking that it is a throwaway lesson. The best healthcare professionals have people skills first and foremost.”

Q: How does your character fit into the end of Vivian's life journey?

A: “Susie is the only dose of kindness in this world. We have a fascinating main character who has sacrificed compassion for demanding, uncompromising intellect. Unlike a lot of other shows, we cannot look to the lead as an example of morality. Susie allows Vivian to finally find her vulnerability, even if it comes so close to her death.”

Q: What is the overall heart of this story?

A: “Though Vivian may shudder at it, I think the heart of the story is gallows humor.”

Q: What do you hope the audience takes away from this experience?

A: “I hope the audience comes to the conclusion that we are all equals in the face of pain, sickness, and death.”