Blood and Water

For many, the term "family" refers to those with whom they share a blood relation. For others, close friends can also qualify. For Ryan Collins, who is in the midst of the biggest life change he's undergone as he begins his career as a teacher, his complicated relationship with his parents and lack of close friends that live in his area leave him a little lost. "Blood and Water", the first in a new series, follows the first few months of Ryan's first year as a teacher. He manages to make a few new friends, some of which become something of a family for him. However, after attempts from his parents to reconnect after some time away complicate things, he's left wondering if his recent happiness in his chosen family is worth risking by allowing his blood back into his life. Ryan's story, from start to finish, highlights struggles that many people deal with, including anxiety, depression, alcoholism, abuse, family problems, and others. As with everything, what happens to Ryan doesn't define who he is, but how he reacts to them, how he chooses to move forward, does.