Plot summary

Renowned surgeon Dr. Wayne Hudson, head of private Brightwood Hospital, dies in a swimming accident because the one-and-only iron lung from the hospital that could have saved him was instead used on wealthy, privileged, entitled ne'er-do-well Bobby Merrick, whose drunken boating accident was just the latest incident in a life of reckless and careless behavior. Dr. Hudson is survived by his supportive young bride Helen Hudson and his adult daughter Joyce Hudson who, not knowing Merrick except by reputation, don't think they can ever forgive him. After Dr. Hudson's death, Helen learns that he secretly embarked on a philosophy--his magnificent obsession--of helping others without any material return for a better world, which led to him spending all his money on others. When Helen and Bobby do meet, there is an immediate attraction between the two. Each does eventually learn the identity of the other, at which time Helen retreats, but Bobby falls in love with her. It isn't until Helen's life further fundamentally changes from something indirectly caused by him that Bobby begins his own journey with this magnificent obsession, at the possible risk of losing Helen altogether.—Huggo