Villainous deceiver Nancy Conrad
Nancy Conrad (Courtney Henggeler) is a villainess from "Goodwill Stunting," episode 6.05 of Royal Pains (airdate July 8, 2014).
Introduction[]
Nancy Conrad was introduced as Hank and Evan Lawson's latest patient, with Evan describing Nancy as a dance instructor who was struck with a mystery illness that was paralyzing her. In Nancy's first appearance in the episode, she stated that while warming up for a dance class three years prior to the event, she felt pain in her lower back. Nancy was in a car accident only a year prior, but she bounced back, only for the mobility in her legs to decrease to the point where her left leg stopped moving entirely.
Hank suggests a MRI, which was taken later in the episode, with Hank informing Nancy that the tests were negatlve. However, Hank stated to Nancy that she has signs of a neurological disorder that is caused by inflammation of the spinal cord, and that she would be put on medication and steroids that may reduce her condition. Nancy was later informed that her condition could remain or worsen, after which she fretted over the news but was grateful to both brothers for receiving an answer.
Reveal[]
Nancy's comical reveal as a deceiver
Later on, Emma Miller (Hank and Evan's paternal half-sister), brought up Nancy after she vented about Hank checking on her at Ricky's barbecue, as Emma stated that Nancy was lying and showed tells hinting at her deceit. Afterwards, Hank decides to test Nancy's mobility, asking her to lift her right leg--as it would put pressure on her left leg to create leverage, but only if she could move it, revealing that Nancy's left leg wasn't paralyzed. Nancy lashed out at Hank and Evan in response, stating that they were like other doctors who couldn't figure out her condition and had blamed her. During her rant, Emma splashed cold water down her back, leading to Nancy jumping out of her chair, revealing her deception.
A shocked and embarrassed Nancy revealed the truth about her deception, which she claimed, "just happened." After her car accident, Nancy received various emails and supporting posts on her blog, and because of the attention, Nancy turned heel and kept up the ruse that she was paralyzed, while also accepting monetary donations to pay her bills. After Nancy's confession, Hank informed her that she would be referred to a psychologist, with Nancy nodding in agreement.