The Big C season 3 episode 9 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

In "The Big C," tensions rise as Alexis mourns her husband's death, and Paul grapples with his role in the church and his unconventional relationship. The family's trip to Puerto Rico exposes underlying strains; Paul feels overshadowed by the late Joy at an event, while Cathy battles anxiety during a scuba diving session. Marital discord peaks as Paul and Cathy confront each other's secrets and unmet needs. Despite challenges, Paul delivers a stirring speech on embracing destiny, and Cathy confronts her fears, symbolizing personal growth amidst life's unpredictability.

Full Episode S03E09 Recap

### The Big C - Season 3, Episode 9: Vaya Con Dios - **Alexis' Tragic Loss**: The episode opens with a conversation about Alexis, whose husband died of a heart attack a few months prior. - **Paul's Struggle with Church and Relationships**: Paul discusses his comfort in the church and his current relationship status. He reveals that he is dating a couple, creating a "thruple," but decides it's best to end it. - **Paul's Heart Health Test**: Paul's assistant, Ababuo, tests a device to jolt his heart if necessary, showing the ongoing concern for his health. - **Trip to Puerto Rico**: The family plans a trip to Puerto Rico. Amidst the excitement, Paul's presentation bag goes missing, causing a moment of panic. - **Arrival in Puerto Rico**: Upon arrival, they are welcomed and receive condolences for a recent loss, hinting at a past tragedy involving Joy. - **Paul's Performance Anxiety**: Paul feels like a second choice to Joy for the event he's speaking at and expresses nervousness about his performance. - **Scuba Diving Experience**: A scuba diving session is planned. Cathy struggles with anxiety underwater and ultimately decides she cannot participate. - **Paul and Cathy's Marital Tensions**: Paul and Cathy have a heated argument about their relationship. Cathy's secret life is revealed, where she pretends her husband is dead, and Paul expresses feeling neglected and unappreciated. - **Paul's Speech**: Despite earlier nerves, Paul delivers an impassioned speech. He speaks about Joy's influence on his life and encourages the audience to embrace their destinies and live fearlessly. - **Adam and Cathy's Graveyard Conversation**: Cathy and her son Adam have a profound conversation in a graveyard, discussing life, death, and the possibility of an afterlife. - **Cathy's Health Update**: Cathy receives a phone call with significant news about her health, suggesting a possible downturn. - **Scuba Diving and Relationship Reflections**: Back at the scuba diving session, Sean, Paul's brother, contemplates his relationship choices, while Cathy reflects on her marital issues. - **Paul Fires Ababuo**: Paul, frustrated with a mistake in the event program, lashes out at Ababuo, who quits in response. - **Cathy Decides to Dive**: Cathy, overcoming her earlier fears, decides to participate in the scuba diving experience. - **Conclusion**: The episode ends with various characters reflecting on their personal journeys, choices, and the pursuit of happiness amidst life's challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the death of Alexis' husband?

He died of a heart attack a few months prior.

What is Paul's current relationship status?

Paul is dating a couple, forming a "thruple," but decides to end it.

Why is Paul's heart health a concern?

Paul has a device to jolt his heart if necessary, indicating ongoing heart issues.

Where does the family travel to in this episode?

The family travels to Puerto Rico.

What is Paul's role in the Puerto Rico event?

Paul is a featured speaker at an event, feeling nervous about replacing Joy.

Why does Cathy struggle with scuba diving?

Cathy experiences anxiety underwater and decides she cannot participate.

What secret life does Cathy have?

Cathy has been pretending that her husband is dead in a bar she frequents.

What is the main topic of Paul's speech?

Paul talks about living fearlessly and embracing destiny, inspired by Joy.

What significant news does Cathy receive?

Cathy receives a phone call with grave news about her health.

Why does Paul fire Ababuo?

Paul fires Ababuo after she makes a mistake in the event program.

Does Cathy ultimately participate in scuba diving?

Yes, Cathy decides to overcome her fears and participate in scuba diving.

The Big C season 3 episode 9

Vaya Con Dios