Lip's Mother is only about 45, but she's seriously ill. Her bedroom has essentially become a hospital room—prescription bottles, medical paperwork, water and medication surround her. Her body has become thin and frail.

But the illness has not taken her warmth, intelligence, or ability to be Lip's mother.

Her 15-year-old son, Eric—whom everyone calls Lip—has begun taking care of her. He feeds her, keeps track of her medication and makes sure she has everything she needs before leaving for school.

She sees what's happening.

Her little boy is trying to become the adult because his mother is dying.