Ep 2. Musical Chairs

The Big C season 2 episode 2, titled "Musical Chairs," follows the story of Cathy Jamison, played by Laura Linney, as she faces the reality of her cancer diagnosis. In this episode, Cathy finds herself drawn to a support group for cancer patients, where she meets a group of people dealing with their own battles with the disease. As she tries to navigate her way through the group's dynamics, Cathy also has to deal with her own family issues, including tension with her brother and struggles with her teenage son.

As she becomes more involved in the support group, Cathy begins to notice the ways in which people deal with their cancer diagnoses, and takes note of those who seem to be handling it with grace and resilience. She also finds herself attracted to the group's leader, Lee, a charismatic man who seems to have a unique approach to coping with illness.

Meanwhile, Cathy's relationship with her husband, Paul, is strained as they both struggle to come to terms with her illness. Paul is frustrated with Cathy's refusal to let him help her, and Cathy is resentful that he seems to be failing to understand the gravity of her situation. Their relationship reaches a breaking point when Cathy decides to take matters into her own hands and go through with a risky treatment plan without consulting Paul.

The episode also focuses on Cathy's son, Adam, who is struggling with his own emotions as he tries to support his mother. He finds himself drawn to a girl at school who has an unusual approach to life, and confides in her about his fears.

Overall, "Musical Chairs" is a powerful and emotional episode that delves into the complex emotions and relationships that can arise when someone is diagnosed with cancer. It explores themes of love, loss, and resilience, and offers a poignant and realistic portrayal of what it means to face a life-altering illness.