Loading summary
Herobread Announcer
Bite into a stacked sandwich made with herobread and the only thing you'll think is delicious. You won't think it has up to 19 grams protein, 11 to 32 grams of fiber or just 0 to 5 grams net carbs, but it does HeroBread. No compromises, just loaves, buns, tortillas, bagels and noodles packed with flavor. Right now get 10% off at Hiro Co with code iheart that's H E R O CO iheart. All figures per serving of Herobread. See Nutrition Facts on Hero Co. A
HomeServe Announcer
burst pipe, a dead water heater, the AC calling it quits.
Ada Wells
Who do you call?
HomeServe Announcer
HomeServe is an easy way to handle unexpected home repairs with plans covering stuff basic homeowners insurance usually won't. Instead of scrambling for a contractor, you make one call to get the repair process started. Join the millions of customers who trust HomeServe. Right now go to HomeServe.com podcast for 50% less your first year. That's HomeServe.com podcast savings compared to renewal Price void In Florida, the Colonels cooked
KFC Announcer
up a new $10 bucket of the day just for you. Monday 24 nuggets for $10 Tuesday 8 piece fried chicken for $10 Wednesday 10 wings for $10 Thursday 8 tenders for $10 Friday 24 nuggets for Ooh, you guessed it, didn't you? $10 the $10 bucket of the day deal every weekday only at KFC. It's finger licking.
Narrator
Good prices and participation. Variable supplies last not available on third party order.
WWE Drew McIntyre / Chumba Casino Announcer
Drew McIntyre here from WWE. Wielding the Claymore can be a life of chaos when I'm not dominating in the ring. Chumba Casino is how this warrior takes a wee break. With hundreds of online social games and new weekly releases, there's always something fresh to try, and those daily boosts next level. Even my free time feels like Valhalla. So when life feels like a battle, kick up your feet, have some fun
KFC Announcer
and let's Chumba no purchase necessary. VGW Group Voidware prohibited by law CTS
Narrator
and CS21 sponsored by Chumba Casino. As the case builds momentum, so do Dana's doubts. Every piece of evidence paints a different picture than the one in her file. A mother who gave everything. Who could have hidden her crime but didn't. Who spent decades trying to protect her son from a system that repeatedly failed families like hers. Dana speaks with witnesses who've lived the same story. Caregivers of disabled family members, experts who've seen institutional abuse firsthand. These aren't just character witnesses for ADA they're witnesses to a broken system. A kind of system Ada feared would swallow her son the moment she was gone. Act 3 Interior Courtroom Day Court is in session. Ada on the stand to resume her testimony.
Prosecutor Alexis
ADA in your own words, can you tell us what happened the night of April 24th of this year?
Ada Wells
It had been a good day. As close to perfect a day as could get for us. No meltdowns, no outbursts. The rain had held off till evening, so Teddy was able to lie in the garden, feel the sun on his face.
Narrator
INSERT FLASHBACK MONTAGE Teddy lies on his back in the garden. Ada watches him from the doorway. Ada runs a bath for Teddy, pours bubble bath into the tub. Teddy enters the bathroom. He wears a robe. Ada brings Teddy a dish of ice cream. Teddy gets into bed. Ada tucks him in, sits next to him, checks her watch. Ada picks up a cloth hood from the nightstand. Ada connects a tube to the helium tank, turns a valve on the tank. Ada sits on the bed with Teddy, holds his hand. Ada checks Teddy's pulse, strokes his hair and kisses his cheek, then lays her head on his chest and sobs. Ada removes the yellow balloon from a package and uses the tank to fill it. BACK TO SCENE ADA by your own
Prosecutor Alexis
admission, you're telling us you took your son's life. Why did you do it?
Ada Wells
About a year ago I read an article about a woman who lived with her 84 year old mother. Just the two of them. The woman was deaf, blind and mentally disabled. Her mother had taken care of her for so many years, just like Teddy and me. When the mother died at home, the woman crawled around on the floor over her mother's dead body, looking for food and water before. Before she was finally found A week later. She was so traumatized they had to put her into the hospital.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
No.
Ada Wells
All I could think was that was that. That could have been Teddy all alone, unable to even walk out the front door for help.
Prosecutor Alexis
But Ada there are state hospitals, residential living facilities. Why didn't you just find somewhere else for him to go?
Ada Wells
65 years Teddy lived in that house with me. He knew every spot where the floor creaked and exactly how long it took the toaster to pop up when it was time to plant the strawberries. That was his home, his sanctuary. It was where he belonged. Where he felt secure, even happy. How could I take all that away from him?
Narrator
Her voice breaks but she keeps going.
Ada Wells
Where else in the world would they let him play piano at 2:00 clock in the morning?
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
If he woke up from a bad
Ada Wells
dream, where would they let him lie
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
in the dirt and take comfort from the earth. Where would they hold him and stroke his hair and tell him how beautiful he was, how truly beautiful? Where would he be safe? Where? Just where is that place?
Narrator
A juror fumbles for a tissue. Alexis waits a moment before continuing.
Prosecutor Alexis
ADA did you also plan to take your own life that day?
Ada Wells
I did.
Prosecutor Alexis
What stopped you?
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
I had to tell our story. I couldn't bear anyone thinking I took my son's life because I didn't love him or because I thought he was a burden. Or I was tired of taking care of him even when I was exhausted and sad and I couldn't understand what Teddy needed. Never for a moment did I ever wish he wasn't my son.
Narrator
Tears fall freely down her face.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
I'm not saying I never wished he didn't have autism. I wished that a lot, especially when he was young. It's only human to feel that way. You never expect to have a child with a disability. It catches you completely off guard, changes the way you think about everything. I hated watching Teddy struggle. He had so much to offer the world and would never get the ch. It made me so angry. It was so unfair.
Ada Wells
But having Teddy in my life, even with autism, is always what I would
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
choose over never having had him at all. How empty my life would have been without him.
Narrator
Ada looks out into the gallery. In the front row she sees her 24 year old self with infant Teddy in her arms. She coos to him and lulls him to sleep and brings him to her chest, kisses the top of his head, breathes deep in contentment. Alexis steps closer to Ada, puts her hand on the rail of the witness box.
Prosecutor Alexis
Ada, on the day you took your son's life, did you believe at that moment what you were doing was wrong?
Ada Wells
No.
Prosecutor Alexis
Thank you, Ada. No more questions. Your witness.
Narrator
She walks back to her seat. Dana stands, straightens her jacket, steps around to the front of the prosecution table.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Just so we're perfectly clear, Mrs. Wells, did you kill your son?
Dr. Monique Ogden
Yes.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
And do you believe killing a person is wrong?
Ada Wells
Under most circumstances, yes.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
But not in your circumstance because you didn't think your son could adapt to living anywhere else. A theory which you could have easily tested while he was still alive, but you chose not to. Without exploring any other options, you planned and carried out the manner of your son's death. You murdered your son because you alone decided that your son's life would be worthless without you.
Narrator
Exterior, Ada's House Day flashback 1990. Ada, in her mid-50s, stands on the front PORCH the door wide open in the early morning. The air is still, the street quiet. She motions with her hand.
Ada Wells
Oh, come. Come look, Teddy. It's so beautiful after the rain.
Narrator
No movement from inside.
Ada Wells
Please, Teddy. I promise nothing bad will happen. You're all grown up now. You can do it.
Narrator
Teddy, around 30 years old, appears in the door frame.
Ada Wells
That's it. Come see the red bud tree. It's bursting with flowers.
Narrator
She points towards the front yard. Teddy peers out in curiosity but does not step outside.
Ada Wells
Please, Teddy. Just one step. I promise you'll be safe. I'll be right here with you. Always.
Narrator
Teddy hesitates, slides one foot a few inches forward. Suddenly the stillness is broken by the thud of a newspaper against the wooden porch railing. A boy on a bicycle whizzes down the sidewalk. A second later, an avalanche of sounds of a regular day. The wail of a siren, a barking dog. A door slams. A baby cries. Teddy lets a cry of distress, claps his hands over his ears. He sinks to the floor, rocks back and forth. Ada rushes inside. Interior ADA's front hallway continuous. Ada quickly but softly closes the door behind her. Teddy, still on the floor, hits the back of his head against the wall. His cries of distress continue. Ada, in tears, runs past him, returns a second later with a well worn but soft plush blanket. She slides down next to Teddy, rubs the blanket on his arm and cheek.
Ada Wells
I am so sorry. So sorry. I won't ever ask you that again. I'm so sorry, Teddy. I should have known better. Please forgive me.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
I'm sorry. Oh, I'm so sorry.
Narrator
She rocks with him as she soothes him with the blanket. INTERIOR COURTROOM Day. Ada looks out, lost in thought, then turns directly to Dana.
Ada Wells
All I can say to you is everything I've done in the past 65 years was what I believed to be in the best interest of my son for our situation. No one in this room can truly know what that was. I realized, though, that you still have to judge me from a place of law. Or maybe your own personal feelings, because that's what keeps order and helps you make sense of something like this. I never thought Teddy's life had any less worth, any less meaning because he had autism. What I did wounded me in a way I could never make you understand. But I wouldn't change it. It's all right. You do what you need to do.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
It doesn't matter what happens to me.
Ada Wells
I just want you to see. We all have our own peace to make in this world, however we may find it.
Narrator
Dana is silent.
Defense Attorney Gina
Counselor no Further questions.
Prosecutor Alexis
The defense rests, you, Honor.
Judge
Does the prosecution wish to call any rebuttal witnesses?
Defense Attorney Gina
Yes, you, Honor.
Judge
Then we'll resume after lunch. Dismissed.
Narrator
Rapser Gavel.
Defense Attorney Gina
That's fine.
WWE Drew McIntyre / Chumba Casino Announcer
Tissues.
Narrator
And by the way, I think you're terrific. How about a little.
KFC Announcer
Beautiful?
Sponsor Announcer (e.g., 23XI Racing / Chumba Casino)
Fantastic.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
All right, let's take a beat, and
Narrator
then when you're ready.
HomeServe Announcer
All right?
Ada Wells
I just didn't want to be disgusting in the shots.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
Okay.
Narrator
Interior. Courthouse. Attorney, conference room. Day. Gina opens a bag, takes out food. Alexis sits at the table, reviews notes. Ada stands at the window, looks down on the crowd of demonstrators below.
Ada Wells
All those years, barely anyone knew I even existed.
Prosecutor Alexis
Now look at all the fuss you made. People think, Ada, that's never a bad thing.
Ada Wells
Did I ever tell you about Teddy's art?
Prosecutor Alexis
The drawings in his room?
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
Oh.
Prosecutor Alexis
Mm.
Ada Wells
To most people, they probably look like nonsense. But they were his way of expressing himself. They represent how he saw the world and how he saw himself in it. I understood that every time something upset him, he would draw. It's how he worked through it.
Narrator
The chants of the protests waft up. Ada gazes out, squints against the bright sun.
Ada Wells
But no amount of drawing could ever make the world a safe place for him. I did try, but I couldn't make it safe for him either. So making our home his sanctuary was all I could think to do.
Narrator
She coughs, gets louder and more insistent. Gina and Alexis exchange glances. Gina brings Ada a box of tissue.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Here, Ada, why don't you come sit down?
Defense Attorney Gina
Have something cold to drink.
Narrator
She ushers Ada over to the table. Interior, Courtroom. Day. Court is back in session.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
The state calls Dr. Monique Ogden.
Narrator
Dr. Ogden, late 40s, stylish appearance, walks with authority, enters the courtroom, sits in the witness box. The bailiff approaches.
Sponsor Announcer (e.g., 23XI Racing / Chumba Casino)
Please raise your right hand. Do you swear or affirm to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I do.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Your honor, Dr. Ogden is testifying as an expert in the field of autism.
Judge
Please state your qualifications, Dr. Ogden.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Certainly, you, Honor. I hold a PhD in childhood development with the postgraduate work at Harvard School of Medicine. My educational expertise is in the areas of developmental psychology and developmental psychopathology. I am the director of the Autism Clinic at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and former co director of the Marcus Autism Neurodevelopment center in Atlanta. Additionally, I am a professor of child and adolescent psychiatry. I have worked with children with autism and their families for almost 30 years.
Judge
The court is satisfied Dr. Ogden has met the requirements of Rule 702. Any objections from the defense?
Prosecutor Alexis
No, you, Honor.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
You may proceed, Dr. Ogden. Could a person with severe autism, such as Theodore Wells, learn to adapt to a new environment after spending his entire life in the same house with the same caretaker?
Dr. Monique Ogden
Yes, he could. It would take some special consideration, someone to get to know him and how he communicates before his mother was gone, along with recreating a similar environment and routine in his new living space. But it most certainly could be done. People with low functioning autism navigate their world almost like a movie with no soundtrack. They don't want their routine broken because they are unsure how to restore the track. It would take some time, but with intense therapy, I'm sure it would not only be possible, but a highly successful transition in which he could thrive.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Just so I have it straight. In your expert opinion, as it relates to this case, Theodore Wells could have adjusted to living in a new home without his mother as his caretaker and lived an equally fulfilling life?
Dr. Monique Ogden
In my expert opinion, yes.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Thank you, Dr. Ogden. Your witness.
Narrator
Alexis smiles in anticipation. Dana returns to her table while Alexis remains seated.
Prosecutor Alexis
Dr. Ogden, do you work with many older autism patients?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I have worked with them, yes.
Prosecutor Alexis
The key word. There was many. Almost all of your work is with children, isn't that correct?
Dr. Monique Ogden
Children and teenagers, yes.
Prosecutor Alexis
You don't have a child with autism, do you?
Dr. Monique Ogden
No, I do not.
Prosecutor Alexis
Have you personally, as an autism expert, ever come across a case such as this? A man with severe autism being removed from his only home, his only family member, after six and a half decades and continuing to thrive?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I don't have any personal experience with a case exactly like this.
Prosecutor Alexis
Have any of your colleagues?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I'm not certain. I would have to check.
Ada Wells
Convenient.
Prosecutor Alexis
How about any case studies? Read any of those 65 years, same home, same caretaker moved him and he was fine. Anything like that?
Dr. Monique Ogden
There have been some similar situations.
Prosecutor Alexis
Really? Similar how?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I've worked with adults with autism after they were removed from their family homes.
Narrator
You have?
Prosecutor Alexis
How old were these adults?
Dr. Monique Ogden
To my recollection, the oldest was 23.
Herobread Announcer
Bite into a stacked sandwich made with Herobread or a fully loaded bagel and the only thing you'll think is delicious. You won't think it's up to 19 grams of protein, but it is. You wouldn't believe it has 11 to 32 grams of fiber, but it does. Herobred makes loaves, buns, tortillas, bagels and noodles packed with taste, but without all the net carbs, we're talking 0 to 5 grams net carbs per serving. With Herobread, there are no compromises, just flavor. There's none of the stiff baked goods you'd expect from better for your brands. There's just the soft, fluffy bread you crave, plus small batch drops of indulgent favorites like the popular 2 gram net carb Hero croissant and 3 gram net carb Hero pain au chocolat. And right now, Herobred is offering 10% off your order. Go to Hero Co and use code IHEART at checkout. That's code IHEARTRO, CO. All figures per serving of HeroBred. See Nutrition Facts on Hero Co. A burst pipe?
Sponsor Announcer (e.g., 23XI Racing / Chumba Casino)
A dead water heater? The AC calling it quits? Who do you call? Homeserve is an easy way to handle unexpected home repairs with plans covering stuff basic homeowners insurance usually won't Instead of scrambling for a contractor, you make one call to get the repair process started. Join the millions of customers who trust HomeServe right now. Go to HomeServe.com podcast for 50% less your first year. That's HomeServe.com podcast savings compared to renewal
She's Birdie Announcer
price void in Florida this episode sponsored by She's Birdie. You know that little wave of relief when someone texts made it home safe? That's exactly the feeling She's Birdie was designed for. The Birdie disc is a clip on personal safety light and alarm made for everyday moments where visibility and attention matter most. Night walks, early morning runs, parking garages, college campuses, dog walks, travel. It features bright flashing LED light modes, a built in flashlight and a 130 decibel siren that can quickly draw attention if something feels wrong. And because it's lightweight, rechargeable, TSA friendly and easy to clip onto jackets, bags, strollers, bikes or keychains, it actually fits into real life without being bulky or complicated. More than 4 million people already trust She'sbirdy for added peace of mind for the people you care most about daughter, partner, friend, student or parent. This is one of those simple things that can make a real difference. Go to sheezburdie.com again that's she'sbirdie.com
KFC Announcer
Bubba
Sponsor Announcer (e.g., 23XI Racing / Chumba Casino)
Wallace here from 23XI Racing. You know what's slower than a pace car? Waiting at the car wash? That's when I fire up Chumba Casino. It turns those slow minutes into fast fun. With new games every week, you'll never get bored. Next time you're stuck in the slow lane, speed up with Chumba play now@chumbacasino.com
KFC Announcer
let's Chumba sponsored by Chumba Casino. No purchase necessary.
WWE Drew McIntyre / Chumba Casino Announcer
VGW Group voidware prohibited by law 21+ terms and conditions apply.
Narrator
Dana bites the inside of her lip. A low murmur is heard through the courtroom.
Prosecutor Alexis
23. That's not quite 65, is it? Did these patients of yours still have living family members, parents, siblings, loved ones to visit, monitor their care, take them home for visits and holidays?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I'm not sure.
Prosecutor Alexis
You're not sure? Weren't these your patients, Doctor?
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Objection. Asked and answered.
Judge
I'll allow it. Please answer the question, Doctor.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Reflecting back. Yes, they had family who visited.
Prosecutor Alexis
So even with all your expertise, you can't say with any degree of certainty that Teddy Wells would have been just fine. You can't say that he wouldn't have been utterly traumatized by the sudden upheaval in his life, unable to respond or communicate in any meaningful way. You don't know because you've never come across a single case study even remotely like Teddy's, have you?
Dr. Monique Ogden
I can't say definitively, but based on.
Narrator
Alexis stands, leans across the table and interrupts the doctor with force.
Prosecutor Alexis
Just answer the question. Yes or no. Doctor, do you have any actual experience with a case as extreme as this?
Dr. Monique Ogden
No.
Narrator
Alexis gives a dismissive wave of her hand, sits back in her seat.
Prosecutor Alexis
That's what I thought. I'm through with this. Witness redirect?
Defense Attorney Gina
No, you, Honor.
Judge
You may step down, Dr. Ogden.
Narrator
She quickly leaves the courtroom. Dana does not look at her.
Judge
Does the State wish to call any further witnesses?
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
The State rests, you, Honor.
Judge
Court is adjourned. We will reconvene at 9am tomorrow for closing arguments.
Narrator
The judge wraps her gavel. People gather their belongings and file out. The noise level rises. Dana stays seated. Carter speaks to her, but she isn't listening. She notices Ada looking at her and holds her gaze and turns away when she realizes Carter is talking. EXTERIOR Dana's car moving. Night Dana drives slowly down a residential street. She stops in front of Ada's house, turns off her lights. Interior Dana's car. Night. Dana stares at Ada's house. Light shines from a front window. Ada appears at the window, looks out into the night. The house goes dark. Dana sits for a moment and drives away. INTERIOR COURTROOM Day the room is packed. Everyone in position except the judge. People fan themselves. Dana dabs discreetly at her forehead and upper lip with a tissue. Ada does not look well. The judge enters, takes her seat.
Sponsor Announcer (e.g., 23XI Racing / Chumba Casino)
All rise. This court is now in session.
Narrator
Everyone rises.
Judge
Good morning. He's settled. As there are no more witnesses, we will proceed to closing statements, beginning with the prosecution. Are you ready to begin, Mrs. Jeffries?
Narrator
Dana remains standing as the rest of the Room sits.
Defense Attorney Gina
Yes, you, Honor.
Narrator
Dana turns to address the jury.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Ada Wells committed murder. She told you so, right here in this very courtroom. She searched the Internet, gathered the equipment she needed, selected the day, and killed her son. And no matter what the reasoning was behind it, no matter how sorry you may feel for her and what she has been through in her life, remember that she had a choice. And that choice was murder. When you cut through all the emotion, all the heartbreak, you're still left with murder, plain and simple. And that is what you must find Ada Wells guilty of. Thank you.
Narrator
She steps back as Alexis comes around the defense table.
Prosecutor Alexis
Some Buddhist teachings justify taking human life on the grounds of compassion in dire circumstance. One text says, taking life is unreprehensible when it develops from a virtuous thought. Ada's only thought was that her son should die at peace, in the only place and with the only person he'd ever known, comforted and secured in her love, rather than lost and confused, alone among strangers. There was no malice, no deceit, no attempt to cover up what she had done, because there was no crime committed. On the day Ada took Teddy's life, she believed fully and completely that what she was doing was not wrong. In her mind, she was taking care of her son just as she always had. John Steinbeck wrote, there are those among us who live in rooms of experience that you and I can never enter. Ada Wells lived with her son in such a room, a room where none of us have ever been for 65 years. Not because she had to. Not out of obligation, but out of love. And her final act for her son was out of love, too.
Narrator
She takes a moment to let that connect. Returns to her seat.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Rebuttal, you, Honor?
Narrator
The judge nods. Dana stands, steps right up to the jury.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
I don't think anyone here doubts that Ada Wells loved her son. That's not in question. But ADA Wells isn't on trial for loving her son. She is on trial for killing him. ADA Wells thought her son would be better off dead if she were not around to take care of him. But that was not her decision to make.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
Stop.
Defense Attorney Gina
Sorry.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
Ada Wells is on trial for not loving.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Oh.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
So let's take it from Wait.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
No.
Narrator
Isn't on trial for not. Trial for not loving.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
Yeah.
Narrator
On trial for not.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Great. Thanks, Nick. I don't think anyone here doubts that Ada Wells loved her son. That is not in question. But Ada Wells isn't on trial for not loving her son. She's on trial for killing him.
Defense Attorney Gina
8.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Wells thought her son would be better off dead if she were not around to take care of him. But that was not her decision to make. Mrs. Wells had cared for her son all by herself, and maybe that was part of the problem. Maybe by not seeking out others to share her burden, she in fact created the very situation she felt she only had one solution.
Defense Attorney Gina
Killing her own son.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Mrs. Wells told us that there was no one else, no family, no one who would care for Teddy as she did. And, you know, and maybe in the first few years of Teddy's life that was true. But now there are numerous organizations, agencies, schools, therapy centers, assisted living facilities. Any number of these places would have taken Teddy in, giving him the care and attention he needed, and even given her some of her life back in the process. Sadly, Ada Wells had no trust, no faith in these systems. Based on what?
Narrator
Her intuition sweeps her arm in Ada's
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
direction and that gave her the right to decide her own child would be better off dead. Perhaps if she had just let go of struggling alone and simply asked for help, none of us would be
Judge
I
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
have no doubt it was frightening for Mrs. Wells to think of leaving her son to the care of strangers. But where then do we draw the line? At what point do we make the distinction of whether or not a life is worth living, worth continuing?
Narrator
Takes a quick breath, keeps going.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
We talk about quality of life as though it takes a certain amount of it for life to be justified. Teddy Wells had music. He had art, he had his garden. And by Ada's own account, he was happy. This is a life that had value. Don't you think if Teddy could have spoken, he would have said the same. Be his voice. And return with the verdict of guilty.
Narrator
She sits down. The judge's instructions to the jury drone in the background. Dana's OFFICE DAY Dana stands in the doorway, glances around at her books, her degree, her pictures. She walks to her desk, opens a bottom drawer, sifts her hand through the collection of unopened letters. INTERIOR dana's home OFFICE NIGHT Dana sits at her desk in near darkness, still in work clothes, but for once they are wrinkled and in disarray. A spot of light from a lamp illuminates one of the colored envelopes, open with a letter and small picture next to it. Ethan pokes his head in.
Judge
It's late.
Narrator
Dana gathers up the letter and the picture.
Defense Attorney Gina
Yeah, I'll be there in a little bit.
Narrator
Okay.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
Dana.
Defense Attorney Gina
Yes?
Narrator
You could talk to me. There isn't anything you could tell me that will make me love you less. You're safe with me, you know that right? Sometimes you just have to let go and trust someone. She does not respond. He waits, gives a small sigh, walks away. She lifts her hand off the picture, looks down at it. INTERIOR dana's home OFFICE DAY Dana sits in the same spot as the sun comes up. Interior ada's house Front hallway A knock on the front door. Ada enters from the kitchen, her movements labored. She opens the door to find Dana on the porch, dressed as earlier.
Defense Attorney Gina
You don't have to speak with me. In fact, I shouldn't be here. And this will probably this will likely get me disbarred.
Ada Wells
Is the verdict end no.
Defense Attorney Gina
This isn't about the case.
Ada Wells
Come in.
Narrator
Ada unlocks the screen door, pushes it open. Interior ADA's Kitchen Day Dana sits at the table. Ada pulls a whistling kettle off the stove, crosses to the table and pours water for tea. Her hand shakes noticeably.
Ada Wells
You know, for years the medical community said I didn't love my son enough and that's what caused his autism. You're the first person who ever accused me of loving him too much.
Defense Attorney Gina
I. I didn't.
Ada Wells
You may have been right in a way. I had held on for so long I didn't know how to let go. Doctors always talked about Teddy like he was broken and needed to be fixed. I was afraid of what that meant. I really did believe I was the only one who could ever truly care for him and know what he needed.
Defense Attorney Gina
And so you just accepted it? It was just that easy?
Ada Wells
Oh no. It was never easy. I was depressed. I was angry. Sometimes after Teddy would finally fall asleep, I would scream into a pillow until I had nothing left. I was angry at my husband for not even trying to understand. Angry at my family for not being there for me. I wondered what I had done to deserve it then. I used to feel guilty until I realized none of it was a reflection on who I was as a person or my ability to be a good mother.
Defense Attorney Gina
Did you ever have any doubts about your feelings for Teddy?
Ada Wells
My sister asked me once if I found it difficult to love Teddy. I told her it's only the disability you struggle to embrace, not the child.
Narrator
Dana removes the colored envelope from her purse, opens it.
Defense Attorney Gina
I asked my parents never to send anything after I left, but they did.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Frequently.
Defense Attorney Gina
All these years I never opened any of them, though I don't know why I didn't know.
Narrator
Dana takes the picture out of the envelope.
Defense Attorney Gina
I told them after I left I never wanted to talk about it.
Narrator
She pushes the picture across the table to Ada. Ada picks it up close on a school Picture of a little girl. She's about 8 years old and has down syndrome. Ada studies the picture, then looks at Dana.
Ada Wells
This is your child?
Defense Attorney Gina
I haven't seen her in almost eight years, since she was five months old. She was born with a hole in her heart. It's common for babies with down syndrome. The pregnancy wasn't planned. I was 29 and my fiance Chris had started his career and I was just about done with law school. Those first few months were just a blur. Doctor's appointments and tests and people constantly in and out and I was still trying to study in the midst of all of it so I could graduate, pretending I could keep it all together. And that was. And that everything was just perfect.
Narrator
Dana takes a sip of tea.
Defense Attorney Gina
Chris was so thrilled to be he was an only child, adopted, and a family was everything to him. He didn't seem at all concerned about her disability. She was just his beautiful little girl. And it made me feel like something was wrong with me for feeling so cheated.
Narrator
Insert HOSPITAL ROOM FLASHBACK Dana stands in a back corner of the room. Her fiance, Chris, early 30s, bends over the bed, strokes the hair of a baby girl as a nurse removes wires and tubes from her. A doctor speaks to Dana and Chris. Chris nods at the doctor. Dana stares off into space, chews a nail. The nurse smiles at Chris and wheels the baby out of the room. Chris and the doctor follow. Dana remains rooted. She looks around the room at all the cards, flowers and stuffed animals. Her gaze lifts to a floating bouquet of get well balloons. Dana crosses over to the window, takes a small stuffed cat and walks out. BACK TO SCENE Dana stares into her cup.
Defense Attorney Gina
I sat there in the waiting room while she was having surgery and thought maybe she'll die. Maybe she'd be better off. Maybe I'd be better off. Like what kind of person has those thoughts about their own baby? I wasn't worthy of being a and I felt guilty and ashamed and lost. I was angry at myself and angry at Chris because he seems so unaffected by it all. And I really needed someone to talk to. Like someone who would tell me it was okay to feel this way. Someone who wouldn't judge me for wanting back the life I'd lost.
Narrator
Dana looks up at Ada But I didn't have that.
Defense Attorney Gina
So I just walked out. I walked out of that hospital and I never went back. Not to see if my daughter survived. Not even to see my parents again. I couldn't. I couldn't face anyone. I was a coward, a failure as a mother and as far from perfect as I could possibly get. I didn't know how to love my own daughter. And here I've been in court trying to judge you. I'm so sorry, Ada. I don't know why I put you through this. I think I wanted so desperately to prove leaving your child to someone else was the right thing to do because of. Because it meant that I made the right choice too.
Narrator
Ada closes her eyes. INSERT CONTINUOUS Ada sees herself standing side by side with adult Teddy as he lets a yellow balloon drift up towards the shining sun. BACK TO SCENE Ada opens her eyes, looks closely at Dana.
Ada Wells
There is an enormous sense of loss that comes with being the parent of a child with a disability. It never fades, but in time you learn to live with it. Life grows in and up and around it, even though it waits below the surface and bubbles up just when you think you've forgotten it. But that part of you that feels that pain or confusion or resentment, that's the same part of you that feels love and tenderness and care.
Narrator
She picks up the picture, looks at it and puts it back on the table and slides it over to Dana.
Ada Wells
Not all choices are permanent.
Narrator
She removes her hand from the picture and places it on top of one of Dana's.
Ada Wells
Do you realize in telling me your story, not once did you ever speak your daughter's name?
Narrator
Dana looks at the picture.
Defense Attorney Gina
Maddie.
Narrator
Dana looks up at her.
Defense Attorney Gina
Her name is Maddie.
Narrator
Her eyes well with tears. INTERIOR dana's OFFICE DAY Dana reads at her desk. She is dressed in court attire. The desk phone rings. She picks it up, listens.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
I'm on my way down.
Narrator
She hangs up, grabs her briefcase, yells as she hurries out.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
Carter Verdict's in.
Narrator
Her door slams shut. Exterior ADA's backyard day the sliding glass door opens from inside. Ada steps out into the brilliant sunshine. Teddy beckons to her from the garden. INTERIOR COURTROOM DAY Everyone is present except for Alexis and Ada. Dana glances over at the empty defense table and checks her watch. Alexis enters the courtroom, walks to the front. Her usual energy is missing.
Prosecutor Alexis
Permission to approach, your honor.
Judge
Counselors approach.
Narrator
Dana joins Alexis in front of the bench. Alexis speaks in a low voice. The judge nods. Dana and Alexis return to their seats.
Judge
Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, thank you for your service. This case has been dismissed and you are hereby released from duty.
Narrator
There's a murmur about the courtroom. The jurors look at one another, confused, gather themselves to leave. Dana approaches Alexis.
Defense Attorney Gina
When did she die?
Prosecutor Alexis
Sometime last night. An autopsy's pending, but she'd probably been ill for several months. She knew it was her time Was she alone? Not completely. She was in the garden. Looked like she had just laid down and went to sleep in a big hollowed out spot. A little bigger than she was. Where Teddy used to lay.
Defense Attorney Gina
I just saw her.
Narrator
Alexis gives her a questioning look.
Defense Attorney Gina
I'm sorry I didn't offer you a deal.
Narrator
Alexis nods and walks away. The last jury member steps down from the jury box. Dana calls out Wait. She rushes over.
Defense Attorney Gina
What was the verdict?
Narrator
EXTERIOR ada's BACKYARD DAY Ada and Teddy lie side by side in the dirt, hold hands. They watch a yellow balloon lift higher and higher into the blue sky. EXTERIOR CEMETERY DAY Alexis and Gina stand by Ada's gravesite. A Reverend reads from the Bible. Dana approaches but keeps her distance. Stands off to one side. The Reverend finishes the casket, lowers into the ground. Alexis and Gina hug. Alexis notices Dana says something to Gina and breaks away. Dana watches as Alexis walks toward her.
Prosecutor Alexis
I was hoping you'd be here.
Narrator
She pulls an envelope out of her purse.
Prosecutor Alexis
She left this for you.
Narrator
Dana takes the envelope from her. Their eyes meet.
Prosecutor Alexis
Take care, Dana.
Narrator
Alexis rejoins Gina. They walk towards a waiting town car. Dana walks over to Ada's grave. Takes a flower from a wreath.
Defense Attorney Gina
Rest in peace, Ada.
Narrator
She places the flower atop the casket. INTERIOR Dana's CAR DAY Dana sits parked in front of Ada's house. There's a moving van in the driveway, a government car parked behind it. She watches movers load furniture into the van. Interior ADA's living room day Dana enters from the front hallway. Looks around the room. Moving boxes are everywhere, laden with Ada's possessions. She crosses to the piano. Picks up a framed photo. CLOSE ON A photo of young Ada holding Teddy as a toddler. A rare photo of both of them smiling into the camera. Sets the picture back on the piano. Walks over to the sliding glass door. Looks out at the garden. She opens the door. EXTERIOR BACKYARD Continuous Dana steps out, glances around. Her eyes land on the hollowed out spot in the garden. She crosses to the spot, kneels down, presses her hand to the earth. Closes her eyes. A court appointed administrator for Ada's estate appears in the doorway.
Defense Attorney Gina
Can I help you?
Narrator
Dana stands up, whirls around.
Defense Attorney Gina
I. I'm from the DA's office.
Narrator
The administrator just stares at Dana. Dana fishes in her purse, produces her credentials.
Prosecutor Dana Jeffries
I need to finish some paperwork in regards to the legal proceedings.
Defense Attorney Gina
I won't be long.
Narrator
The administrator peers at Dana's identification.
Ada Wells
Take your time. We'll be sorting through this junk for a while.
Narrator
Disappears back inside. Dana follows. INTERIOR LIVING ROOM Continuous Dana reenters from the backyard. She takes the photo from the piano, looks at it and brings it to her chest. She glances around the room one last time, walks to the front door, takes the photo with her. Interior Dana's home OFFICE Night Dana sits at her desk. Ada's unopened letter and the framed photograph she took from Ada's house in front of her. She opens the letter and reads. A range of emotions play across her face. She struggles to rein them in. Finally she can no longer hold back and breaks down sobs as she gets to the end of the letter. INTERIOR Dana's house FOYER NIGHT the front door opens. Ethan enters, hangs up his jacket. He hears crying, calls out. Dana hurries towards the back of the house. INTERIOR Dana's home OFFICE Continuous Ethan rushes in, kneels in front of Dana's chair. Still clutching the letter. She dissolves in his arms. She clings to him as they sink to the floor. He rocks her. CLOSE On Dana's laptop screen, open to a social media account for Christopher Moreland. There are multiple photos of a man with a young girl with down syndrome. EXTERIOR AIRPORT DAY Ethan's car pulls up in the departure lane, stops. Ethan exits the driver's side, steps back to the trunk, removes a suitcase. Dana exits the passenger side, stands on the curb. Her hair is loose, flowing and she is dressed in a sundress and sandals. Ethan brings the suitcase to her. They kiss.
Defense Attorney Gina
I love you. I love you too.
Narrator
She takes the suitcase, walks into the airport. INTERIOR AIRPLANE Day Dana boards the plane, finds her seat, settles herself. The flight crew prepares for takeoff. She leans back in her seat, pulls a small stuffed cat out of the pocket of her sweater, holds it in her lap, closes her eyes as the plane shuttles down the Runway. Montage during Ada's voiceover the plane lands. Dana walks through the airport. Dana rents a car. Dana drives through the suburbs. Dana pulls into the parking lot of a ball field.
Ada Wells
When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous trip to Italy. You buy a bunch of guidebooks and make your wonderful plans. After months of eager and anticipation, the day arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. The stewardess comes in and says, welcome to Holland. Holland, you say.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
What do you mean, Holland?
Ada Wells
I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy. But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay. The important thing is they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place. It's just a different place. So you must go out and buy new guidebooks and you must learn a whole new language and you will meet a whole new group of people you would have never met. It's sort of slower pace than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts. But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy. And for the rest of your life you will say, yes, that's where I was supposed to go. And the pain of that will never, ever, ever go away. Because the loss of that dream is a very significant loss. But if you spend your life mourning the fact you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things about Holland.
Narrator
EXTERIOR BALL FIELD DAY Softball game in progress. Challenger League for children with a range of special needs. Some kids are in wheelchairs, some cannot speak or see. But everyone is having a great time. Parents in the stands clap, enthusiastic. Dana exits the rental car, watches the game. A big cheer erupts as a child gets a hit and their buddy pushes the wheelchair to first base. She starts towards the stands behind the backstop. Chris kneels next to Maddie. 7. He sees Dana approach, stands up. As she gets closer, he puts a protective arm around Maddie. Dana stops a few feet away. Chris speaks to Maddie, then walks forward to Dana.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
I didn't believe your mom when she said you were coming. You have no right to be here. Not after all this time. What makes you think you can walk back in here like nothing happened?
Defense Attorney Gina
Something did happen.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
What does that mean? Why are you here? What do you want?
Defense Attorney Gina
I made a mistake. A terrible mistake. Because I didn't know who I was. And I didn't believe in myself. I didn't think I could be a mother. Or a good one anyway, so. So I did what I thought was best for everyone. I failed you and I failed our daughter. I don't expect you to forgive me.
Narrator
She spots Maddie running towards them.
Defense Attorney Gina
But maybe she can.
Narrator
Maddie runs up to Chris.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Daddy, it's almost my turn.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
Okay, sweetheart, I'll be right there.
Narrator
Maddie looks at Dana.
Ada Wells
Hi.
Ada Wells (emotional testimony)
Hello.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Are you here to watch the game?
Narrator
Dana looks at Chris.
Defense Attorney Gina
Would that be all right? Sure.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Are you for the home team or the away team?
Defense Attorney Gina
I think home.
Dr. Monique Ogden
That's my team.
Narrator
She takes Dana's hand.
Dr. Monique Ogden
Come on, I'll show you where to sit.
Narrator
She leads Dana towards the stands. Dana turns to look back at Chris, tears in her eyes. He puts up a hand and shakes his head as if to acquiesce. Makes no move to stop them.
Dr. Monique Ogden
That's a really pretty dress. Your hair color is just like mine. Do you have any pets? We had two cats and a hamster. My name's Maddie. What's yours?
Narrator
Chris watches them walk away. Fade out. The end.
Chris (Dana's fiancé)
Yeah, you guys got me too.
Sponsor Announcer (e.g., 23XI Racing / Chumba Casino)
Thank you very much, everybody.
Date: July 28, 2026
Host: iHeartPodcasts
Produced by: Jack Levy, Shaan Sharma, Mark Knell
"Rooms Of Experience - Act 3" delivers a powerful, cinematic audio drama set in a courtroom, exploring the heart-wrenching trial of Ada Wells. Ada, an aging mother, is charged with the mercy killing of her severely autistic son, Teddy. The episode navigates moral and emotional complexities surrounding care, guilt, love, and the profound burden of family responsibility. Through immersive sound design and nuanced performances, listeners are asked to confront questions about justice, compassion, and the experience of parenting a disabled child.
Ada’s Explanation & Motivations (02:53–08:28)
Notable Quote:
Moral and Legal Boundaries (09:15–13:28)
Ethical Dilemmas:
Notable Moment:
Possibilities of Adaptation (16:07–18:12)
Notable Quote:
Prosecution’s Stand: (25:35–27:37; 27:41–30:34)
Notable Quote:
Defense’s Stand: (26:17–27:37)
Notable Quote:
Dana’s Parallel Journey (32:03–39:43)
Notable Exchange:
Ada’s Passing & Aftermath: (40:33–41:47)
Dana's Reconciliation with Her Past: (41:47–50:46)
Final Voiceover — The “Holland” Parable: (46:25–48:31)
Ada's confession of love and loss:
Ada to Dana re: parenting and guilt:
"Holland" parable on expectation and acceptance:
Defense closing, on rooms of experience:
Dana’s apology to Maddie’s father, Chris:
"Rooms Of Experience - Act 3" is an emotionally complex, expertly acted piece examining the limits of love, responsibility, and the price of sacrifice. The lines between right and wrong blur as both the legal system and the caregivers themselves grapple with pain, love, and forgiveness. Through Ada’s story and Dana’s personal reckoning, listeners are left reflecting on the meaning of care, the acceptance of difference, and the courage it takes to make peace with one’s choices.