Lynne McKay, an introverted college student and a prolific essayist, is woefully unaware
that she's a recluse in the making. Having experienced life
vicariously-only through the books she has read and overanalyzed-
she is unprepared when her life is interrupted with the
diagnosis of Crohn's disease. After being admitted to the
hospital, Lynne must shed her introverted shell in order to
survive. With an IV pole in hand and a VIP pass to the marble
throne at the ready, she reaches out to an unexpected and
insistent comrade, Peter, who suffers from the same disease but
has penchants for mischief and empathy. During their time in the
hospital together, Lynne must consider: is this diagnosis a second
chance at life or is it her death sentence?
The Directive gives a face and personality to a disorder that is
often misunderstood. It exposes the world of Crohn's disease
and its prognosis, treatments, and concerns through humor,
science, and the deep insights of its youthful characters.