An Angel on My Tree

what happens

Tess hires Kathy Benson, a mother of three whose husband is in prison, to wrap gifts for the Christmas rush. Meanwhile, Andrew is conducting an anger management course at the prison where Kathy's husband is serving a five year sentence for manslaughter. Andrew asks the prisoners to submit their applications for Project Angel Tree, a nationwide program which enables them to submit their children's names to receive Christmas gifts from good Samaritans. While Kathy's at work, Monica baby-sits the Benson children Travis, Cassie and Cody and discovers that Cody has Tourette's Syndrome, a chemical brain disorder which causes him involuntarily twitch, emitting hiccup like sounds. In a newscast, we see footage of the attack on the 17 year-old boy (Matt McHale) one year ago which landed Joe in prison for manslaughter. When Kathy gets home, Monica discusses the effect of the attack on Cody's relationship with his father, who have not spoken since last Christmas. Kathy brings Travis and Cas

who made it

directed

Larry Peerce

guest cast

Billed for this episode only — the turn people remember an episode for.

• Christopher Rodriguez Marquette as Cody Benson
• Richard Lineback as Joe Benson
• Kathleen Wilhoite as Kathy Benson
• JJonathan Osser as Travis Benson
• Jessica Sara as Cassie Benson