In this opening chapter, we are introduced to the protagonist, Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sixteen-year-old girl grappling with thyroid cancer that has metastasized to her lungs. Hazel's narrative voice is both humorous and poignant, reflecting her intelligence and introspective nature. She begins by explaining her medical condition, detailing her daily struggle with the illness and the dependence on an oxygen tank to breathe properly. Despite the gravity of her situation, Hazel's wit shines through as she shares her thoughts on the absurdity of her life and the way cancer has shaped her existence.

Hazel reluctantly attends a cancer support group that meets in a church basement, which she views as a futile exercise in camaraderie among those suffering from similar ailments. Each meeting features a rotating cast of fellow cancer patients who share their stories, but Hazel often feels isolated from them, believing that her cancer experience is fundamentally different from theirs. She openly expresses her disdain for the support group, feeling that it serves as a reminder of her illness rather than a source of comfort.

During the meeting, Hazel reflects on her interactions with other cancer patients, noting that many of them exhibit a sense of false hope and positivity that she finds disingenuous. She discusses her views on life and death, revealing her complex relationship with mortality. Hazel's perspective is heavily influenced by her experiences with illness, which have taught her to confront uncomfortable truths about life.

As the chapter progresses, Hazel introduces us to her mother, who is supportive yet overly concerned about Hazel's health and well-being. Her mother's desire for Hazel to engage with others battling cancer is a source of tension, as Hazel prefers solitude and often feels burdened by her mother's expectations.

Despite her reluctance to connect with others, the chapter sets the stage for Hazel's emotional journey as she navigates her illness, relationships, and the search for meaning in a life overshadowed by cancer. The tone is a blend of tragedy and humor, effectively drawing readers into Hazel's world and setting the foundation for her character development throughout the novel. The chapter concludes with a sense of foreboding, hinting at the challenges Hazel will face in her interactions with others and the inevitable impact of her illness on her life and relationships.