Lately, however, Nick`s vision and memory have been short-circuiting, and his headaches won`t go away. Although he looks healthy, he has been fending off AIDS related illnesses for years. And now, just before Christmas, his doctor tells him that untreatable brain lesions (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy) will decimate all his faculties within days. He might die quickly, or linger in a vegetative coma, never to recover.

Nick decided long ago that he would never linger; his friend Tony (Paul Regina), a former health professional, will help him die with dignity. But Nick, who has always known how to live, intends to savor his remaining time by gathering everyone he loves for a two-day farewell party.

Though devastated by the cruelty of the situation, Nick`s mother Amalia (Lee Grant) helps host the party. Family and friends, including his sister Daphne (Marlee Matlin) converge from around the country in a state of shock. Nick`s healthy appearance and rowdy humor make the news even harder to believe.

The arrival of film director Brandon Theis (Gregory Harrison), once the love of Nick`s life, is another kind of shock. No one is neutral about Brandon, and some, like the outrageous Monty Tipton (Bronson Pinchot), don`t hide their hostility. But Nick`s friend Charlene (Margaret Cho) believed Brandon belonged at the party and invited him on her own.

Through flashbacks, Nick and Brandon recall good times together, friends they lost to AIDS, and the devastating effect Nick`s illness had on their relationship.

Another unexpected guest proves a surprise to both Nick and Amalia. Nick`s estranged father Paul (George Segal) shows up to see his son for the last time.

Nick is a generous host to the diverse crowd he attracts. He draws his guests into a highly- charged atmosphere where opinions collide, secrets spill and old wounds heal as everyone struggles to accept Nick`s fate--and their own. Although frustrated by his worsening condition, Nick knows the peace of being surrounded by everyone he loves.

And when Nick and Brandon finally reconcile, they realize their bond will last forever.