A vibrant and fiercely independent woman diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Born in the United States after her family emigrated from China, she constantly searches for beauty and fulfillment in her surroundings. She naturally pushes against expectations and desires a self-directed life. Her mental health episodes occasionally complicate her independence and force her loved ones into difficult positions.

Lucia’s older sister who emigrated from China to the United States as a young child. Burdened by a strong sense of familial obligation, she takes the responsibility of caring for Lucia very seriously. She works diligently to secure her sister's medical treatment. This heavy involvement often comes at the expense of her own personal life and romantic relationships.

A loud and kindhearted Jewish Russian man who becomes Lucia's first husband. Despite his outward aloofness, he possesses a strong moral compass and is deeply devoted to his wife. He stands out as one of the few people who does not define Lucia by her mental illness. He prioritizes her right to make her own choices above all else.

An undocumented immigrant from Ecuador who works hard to support his extended family. He faces immense pressure from his relatives to secure an American marriage so he can help his sickly younger brother. When he forms a swift connection with Lucia, he finds himself thrust into unexpected responsibilities surrounding fatherhood and caretaking.

The young daughter of Lucia and Manuel. Her name means "hope" in Spanish. She spends her early childhood surrounded by her father's extended family in Ecuador. She represents the intersection of her parents' diverse cultural backgrounds and brings joy to those around her.

A Swiss doctor who dates and eventually builds a life with Miranda. He provides a stabilizing presence for her but frequently struggles to understand the depth of her cultural obligations to Lucia. He consistently advocates for Miranda to set boundaries and prioritize her own happiness.

The mother of Miranda and Lucia who emigrated from China to the United States while pregnant with Lucia. Before her death from lung cancer, she formally entrusts the care of her younger daughter entirely to Miranda. This singular directive heavily shapes the rest of Miranda's life.

Manuel's mother who lives in Ecuador and fiercely advocates for the survival of her family. She places heavy expectations on Manuel to secure a better future for them. She strongly urges him to marry an American citizen to help save his disabled younger brother.

Manuel's father who works on the family farm in their rural Ecuadorian village. He is a steadfast presence in the household. He manages the agricultural duties and supports the family alongside his wife.

Manuel's younger brother who lives in Ecuador. He has an intellectual disability and a weak heart that requires expensive medical treatment. Despite being labeled a curse by a local medicine man, he is deeply loved by his family.

An immigrant living in the same crowded house as Manuel and Lucia in New York. She is kind to Lucia and throws her a baby shower early on. Her circumstances become precarious due to the constant threat of immigration enforcement.

A pragmatic medical professional working in the Crote Six ward where Lucia is treated. He acts as an experienced figure in the healthcare system. He balances hospital protocols with the individual realities of his patients.

A patient in the psychiatric ward who becomes roommates with Lucia. She exhibits protective behavior over Lucia within the hospital environment. This illustrates the solidarity that forms among institutionalized patients.

A young mother whom Lucia befriends in a postpartum support group. Through their conversations, the two women bond over the distinct ways society treats physical illnesses versus mental health conditions.

An acquaintance from Lucia's college days whom she runs into while living in Ecuador. He provides Lucia with an opportunity to work as a journalist. This inadvertently helps her seek independence away from Manuel's family.

Manuel's aunt and a vocal presence in his extended Ecuadorian family. She frequently voices the village's cultural expectations. She often questions Lucia's choices and expresses disapproval when traditional gender roles are challenged.

Yonah's estranged son. Though their relationship has been historically distant, he travels to reconnect with his father. He works to mend their complicated family dynamic during a difficult time.