The episode features 19-year-old Claire Wineland from Venice Beach, Calif. Claire has cystic fibrosis and founded Claire's Place Foundation, Inc., a non-profit providing support to the children and families affected by the disease. Also featured in the episode is "Darth Vader" from Canandaigua, N.Y., who has been battling leukemia for the last 14 years. With 13 surgeries as part of his history, Darth has still managed to complete more than 50 Tough Mudder competitions, as well as 37 half-marathons.

The episode features Kat Lazo, a 25-year-old self-described "proud lesbian" from Las Vegas, Nev., who lives with a form of stomach cancer that keeps her from enjoying her favorite foods. Through her determination to live life colorfully, she consistently inspires people with her vibrant personality and zest for life. Also featured in the episode is Isabel Bueso, of Concord, Calif., an aspiring sociologist born with a very rare medical condition named Mucopolysaccharidosis VI (MPS VI). Raised knowing that she would not live past 20, Isabel, now 21, continues to research MPS VI and regularly organizes events to build awareness.

The episode features lifelong gospel music fan Kendrick David Evans, 25, from Tallahassee, Fla., who in 2012, was diagnosed with a rare form of sleep apnea. Despite being given only three more years to live, Evans is determined to complete his fourth album and put on a gospel concert with some of his favorite artists. Also featured in the episode is Jess Oldlyn, 35, from Friday Harbor, Wash., who was diagnosed with brain cancer and underwent three brain surgeries, which at times left her unable to speak and unable to move her right side. Jess's love for her husband and determination to find a treatment keeps her going.