John's a (FtM) transgender man. In 1950s UK, prejudice about sex change was rife. Joan helped, through private surgery, Jo's change to John. Both emigrated to NZ, married, & lived happily until Joan's death in 1989. 'Second Chance' is the sequel, a new love story. John, now retired, married Zella, who won her own battles with depression and cancer. Anyone can have a second chance.