Ep 8. The Woman Who Refused to Die

In An Instant season 3 episode 8, titled "The Woman Who Refused to Die," tells the remarkable story of a woman who survived unimaginable injuries in a plane crash. Stephanie Nielson, a young mother of four, was on a small plane with her husband when it crashed into a field in Arizona in 2008. The crash left Stephanie with third-degree burns covering over 80 percent of her body and she was given a mere 15 percent chance of survival.

The episode begins in the aftermath of the crash as rescue crews scramble to respond to the scene. The intense flames of the crash left both Stephanie and her husband Christian unrecognizable. As the emergency responders worked to free them from the wreckage, Stephanie's thoughts turned to her children. She was uncertain if she would survive, but knew she needed to do everything in her power to see them again.

The second part of the episode delves into Stephanie's family life, showcasing interviews with her friends and family members. Stephanie is shown to have lived a full and happy life prior to the crash, deeply involved in her children's lives as a stay-at-home mom. The tragedy of the plane crash threatened to destroy all of the happiness she had worked so hard to cultivate. But, as we learn throughout the episode, Stephanie is made of sterner stuff.

Stephanie Nielson's survival story is a true inspiration. Though she was given little hope by the doctors, her faith and determination did not waver. Despite the tremendous physical pain and the emotional toll of being separated from her children, Stephanie fought hard to recover. Her story is made all the more powerful by the fact that it was not just her own life at stake. As a mother of young children - aged from nine months to six years at the time of the crash - Stephanie's life had meaning beyond herself.

Throughout the episode, we see how Stephanie's story galvanized those around her. Family, friends and community members rallied to her side, offering love and support during her long road to recovery. Though the road was difficult, Stephanie was able to battle back against the odds, even when it seemed like her body might not be able to handle any more.

The episode also highlights the central role that faith played in Stephanie's story. As a devout and faithful Mormon, Stephanie's beliefs gave her strength during the darkest moments of her ordeal. Her unwavering belief that she would see her children again helped her push through the pain and despair that at times seemed overwhelming.

"The Woman Who Refused to Die" is a moving and inspirational episode of In An Instant. Stephanie Nielson's story is one of survival, of faith, and of the enduring power of family and community. It demonstrates that, even in the most difficult times, the human spirit has a remarkable ability to rise above circumstances and to find hope in the midst of tragedy.