Independence Day

Overview

The Greenes travel to Great Falls, Montana to visit Russell's cousin, Jeff, and his wife, Marie--and meet their six-month-old baby, Hailey. Jeff and Marie's marriage is under increasing strain since Hailey's birth and becoming legal guardian of Jeff's twenty-year old brother, Bob, who has Down's Syndrome. Part of the problem is that Jeff has not been attentive to his wife's needs--who is now overwhelmed. Worse still, Bob has become the scapegoat for all their problems. When Hattie learns that Jeff and Marie haven't had a night to themselves in six months, she insists they spend the night elsewhere while the Greenes watch Hailey and Bob. Claire notices that Bob is actually quite capable of helping with the baby--and has been wanting to have a greater role in his niece's life. Jeff and Marie return the next day, refreshed--and resolved to put Bob in an institution. Bob overhears the conversation and flees.

Episode Information