St. Elsewhere (1982–1988): Season 2, Episode 19 - The Women - full transcript
Four women share the same room: a gravely ill woman; an elderly woman who may lose her independence; a middle-aged woman with a history of erratic behavior; and a younger woman who is getting a nose job.
What's wrong with her?
Tonight, on St Elsewhere...
Mrs Henriquez...
That's the sort of bump
I want put in it.
Usually, people want bumps taken out.
Doesn't she have
a perfect nose already?
Don't start, Victor.
I don't feel old,
so why should I act it?
You have to rethink this.
You have to live
with Harriet and me.
I'd rather die.
And I cut it, and I cut it,
and I cut it!
Stay away from me,
I know what I'm doing!
Pete and I might have hepatitis.
Drop 'em.
Ah!
I've had it with her. Who?
Your patient. Evelyn Milbourne.
Really? I'm surprised. I've been
her doctor since Harwood died,
she hasn't given me trouble.
Well...
You asked me to see her
in the morning.
I take time out from a busy
schedule to do you a favour.
Yes, I appreciate it.
Whenever I try to explain
how delicate her condition is,
she makes fun of me.
I don't like being mimicked.
Now, I have finally decided what
I want my new nose to look like.
That's the sort of bump
I want put in it.
You know, usually people
want bumps taken out.
Good morning.
Good morning, Donald,
what can I do for you?
I have to be
in surgery in 15 minutes,
so maybe you could be
a little more cooperative?
"Mrs Milbourne, I have to be
in surgery in 15 minutes."
See what I mean?
Evelyn, I think you should listen
to what Dr Craig has to say.
Well, all right,
with you here to translate.
Her PVCs and atrial fibrillation
responded to medication.
However, there is a good chance
of stenosis
in the left anterior
descending artery.
If you look here,
her EKGs show Q waves
in leads two, three, V1 and V2.
Translate?
Well, we think that when you fell
and broke her hip,
you might have had a heart attack.
I didn't have any chest pains,
it must have been a very slight one.
There's no such thing
as a slight heart attack.
A broken hip that is mending poorly
and a heart that is threatening -
it's nothing to smile at.
Or to laugh at either.
I'm not laughing at my heart,
I'm laughing at you.
What do you mean?
Do you ever talk to yourself
in the mirror?
Sane people don't talk
to themselves in mirrors.
Try it.
Look in the mirror and pretend
you're talking to me
on the other side.
And watch how you hold your head
and how you purse your lips
as though everything
that you say is a jewel.
Try it, you'll laugh.
Medicine is a serious business,
and I'm due in surgery.
Evelyn,
you have to be nice to our doctors.
Well, I told you, I don't want
to see any doctor but you.
Besides, I hate hospitals.
Who doesn't? All right,
I'll check in on you later.
Try to behave.
No.
Fine, but what I think you should do
is wait for Dr Weinberg
to get back from Caneel Bay.
No, uh-uh, I'm not going to wait.
No.
It's obvious to me that getting
a suntan is more important to him
than doing my nose.
I want the swelling to be down
before my son's graduation
from Valley Forge Military Academy.
He is my only child.
I want to look right, you know, for
the commencement, you understand?
You can understand that, can't you?
Sure.
Thank you, good.
Then, we're on the schedule
for tomorrow.
Oh, thanks so much.
Bye.
Excuse me,
may I borrow this magazine?
Well, certainly, take it.
You look awfully distinguished
to be in a ward,
why aren't you in a private room?
To save money.
I thought so. Me, too.
What are you in for?
A broken hip
and myocardial infarction.
I broke my hip once two years ago.
You know I didn't even need a pin?
It just healed by itself.
My son had a poem in here once.
That was quite a year.
Poem in the Atlantic
and valedictorian
of his graduating class at Harvard.
My only child.
You look very young to have
a son out of college.
Oh?
I married young, but thank you,
really, that's very kind of you.
Wayne, you got a new cap.
Alley of the good.
You look like your old self again -
ridiculous.
Hi, I'm Dr Fiscus,
what's your name?
Do you know your name?
Yes.
Ma'am,
did your husband bring you in?
Oh, I'm not married.
Your chart says Mrs.
I'm not married.
Um... I'll be right back.
'Mr Klein, utility room, Four West.
Mr Klein...'
I'm Angelo, her husband.
Can you tell me what happened?
Well, I don't know. This morning
she left to go shopping,
I was away on business
and the kids called hysterical
because she hadn't come home.
So, we all went looking for her,
and a little while ago,
the police said
they had brought her here.
Does she have a history
of heavy drinking?
No.
She forgets her name, her car keys,
she forgets the kids' names.
Last week she told me
I ruined her life.
Another time, she stopped
in the middle of dinner
and she stared at me
and the kids and said,
"Every night, it's more strangers."
Is she taking any medication?
No.
Has she blacked out?
Doctor, you got to take her in.
Are there any other illnesses?
Headaches, visual disturbances?
No. What's wrong with her?
I don't know.
What, honey?
Angelo. It's OK.
I want to go home.
Admit her, please.
The doctor just wants
to take a few tests.
No, I would like to go home.
Don't worry about it.
So, as usual, we had a fight
and I walked out.
Mom said she didn't want to see me
again until I rinsed the blue out.
I told her to rotate.
Well, you are welcome to stay
at my house if you think it'll help.
Thanks, Gram. We'll see.
But, please, wear a hat when you're
out feeding the animals, will you?
What has she got?
I don't know.
I don't stick my nose
in other people's business.
Her name is Mrs Henriquez.
Yeah.
She has Eastern equine encephalitis.
It is very debilitating.
Do me a favour, go home and do
the things that I asked, will you?
Thank you, darling.
And just being different,
don't forget,
from your mother and father,
doesn't make you independent.
I'll be back tomorrow, Gram.
I think Dad is coming, too.
Oh, that should be a treat.
I can't wait to see the latest
spring fashions in mourning wear.
I assume Harriet will be making
an appearance, too.
Have no fear, we'll leave Mom home.
Bye.
Bye.
Oh, I like her, Evelyn.
Your granddaughter
is really special.
How do you know my name?
Well, I looked on your chart.
And you live alone. Me, too.
I love it. What about you?
Oh, not now, dear, I'm reading.
What are you reading?
What did you say you were in for?
They're not sure yet.
So, you get a three-dimensional
picture of my brain this way? Uh-huh.
You see, the CAT scan takes a series
of X-rays from different angles
and the dye we injected into your
body helps give them contrast.
What happens to the dye later?
It just naturally passes
through your system.
I know this thing looks terrible,
but it doesn't hurt at all.
See you in half an hour.
How's it going?
They're just starting.
I was on my way to your office,
I had made an appointment.
I know, but it felt like a walk.
What's her problem?
Well, for a while, Mrs Orso
was perfectly fine.
She's logical, she's coherent.
And then all of a sudden, she's off.
I mean, she doesn't recognise
friends or relatives,
sometimes not even herself.
Head trauma?
No.
Spinal tap?
Fluid's as clear as a bell.
Has she been up to Psych?
First day. I'm stumped.
I was wondering if I can impose
on you to give her a look.
I'd be glad to.
But what about talking to Doc Simon?
He's our top neurologist.
He's in New Haven on a consult.
Blowing his own horn, no doubt.
She's breathing funny.
Don't you think her breathing
sounds funny?
Well, I hadn't really noticed.
There is an awful lot
of unnecessary surgery done.
Doctors like to make profits.
No, I mean surgery that the patient
wants that isn't life-threatening.
Like, uh... Circumcision!
Oh, but circumcision isn't really
the patient's choice, is it?
I get the feeling sometimes
that you go on a little too long,
Mrs Gallagher.
Oh, please, just call me Paige.
You must be tired.
Yes. A lot of tests.
Here we are.
Thanks for the ride.
This is for the bed and this button
buzzes out to the nurses' station.
Now, if you want nobody to bother
you for 20 minutes, push it.
Thank you.
And the bathroom
is right over there.
Thank you.
Hi.
Hello.
Time for lights out, everybody.
You can keep your overheads
on to read, if you like. Good night.
Well, sweet dreams, ladies.
My, I feel like I'm back
in summer camp.
When are they going to blow Taps?
Good night, Mrs Gallagher.
Nighty-night.
HEAVY BREATHING
What's wrong with her?
Mrs Henriquez.
Mrs Henriquez.
Stop shaking her and call the nurse.
Oh.
Oh. Oh, God.
Oh, God.
Hurry! Hurry!
Do something.
Go back to bed.
Right now!
We were just trying to help.
Code blue, room 4202.
Code blue 4202.
The best you can do
is go back to bed.
It's probably nothing.
What's with all those machines?
OK, what's the story?
She's been in a coma for three
weeks and is on nasal oxygen now.
OK, give me a 23 ET tube
and a curved scope.
Last week, she developed a urinary
tract infection and a septicaemia.
BP 60, palp.
OK, just open the IV
according to the chart.
The patient is "do not resuscitate".
Shouldn't somebody call her family?
OK, that is it.
Are you Mrs Henriquez's physician?
No, I never saw her before just now.
Velasco is the attendee?
Uh-huh. Ok.
You'll want to notify the family.
Not me.
Right.
Are they going to leave her here
all night?
Oh, I'm sure someone will come by.
Of course.
Well, good night.
Good night.
Sweet dreams.
By the way, my name is Rose.
Ah.
I just couldn't take
any more from Mom,
so last night I packed up
and moved over to your place.
What have they got planned for you
this time, the rack?
No.
It is called an EEG, am I right?
It sounds expensive.
I've gone this far.
Hello, Mother.
I got these from that little man
on Milk Street,
where Father used to buy you flowers.
Jennifer.
Hi, Dad. Is Mom coming, too?
No, she, um, had an appointment
she couldn't break.
I'll bet.
How come you're not at school
at 9.30 on a weekday morning?
I'm on my way, OK?
I just stopped by to see Gram
and tell her I fed Toby.
You've got to learn,
when things are not going the way
you want at home,
the solution is not
running off to Grandma.
Fine.
And call your mother.
Let her know you're still on Earth.
I can't believe the way that you
and Harriet are raising Jenny.
You keep out of it, Mother.
Well, I can't for the life of me
understand why you won't allow her
to express her individuality,
let her become
what she's going to become.
I know you don't approve
of the way we live our lives.
That's all right, you've never
approved of the way I live my life.
(LAUGHS)
Well, at least you can still laugh.
I had a long conversation with
Dr Westphall yesterday afternoon.
You had a heart attack.
How could you have a heart attack
and not mention it to me?
Sometimes I find your behaviour
absolutely astounding.
I was going to tell you today.
I had a heart attack.
There, I told you.
Do you feel more included?
Your condition is far more serious
than you pretend.
Apparently, it's too dangerous
for you to live alone any more.
Really? Yes, really.
Well, what do you suggest?
It's obvious, isn't it?
You have to come live
with Harriet and me.
I'd rather die.
Would you rather go to
a retirement home?
I'm not going anywhere.
Least of all to your house
to live with you and Harriet.
This isn't...going well.
No, it isn't.
I guess I should be...
Going.
Thanks for the flowers.
Don't let the door hit
you on your way out.
I'll come see you tomorrow.
Uh-huh.
I find it hard to believe
that he's your son.
So do I.
Yep, spring is finally here.
Yeah.
Oh, did you and Dad get the...
get the pictures I sent you?
Yeah?
Weren't they great?
Of course I took them.
Well, David is right,
I had a great time.
Yes, I got a parking ticket.
Could you transfer me, please?
You couldn't take this phone?
Thank you.
Wait, what do you mean?
Yes, I'm a doctor.
Are they sure it is hepatitis?
I got a parking ticket
while I was in an emergency.
Which type?
Yeah, 11052.
Did Dr Fogel take it
while he was here?
Fiscus says this works every time.
If he did, that means
that Pete and I have hepatitis.
What are you talking about?
You've got hep?
Are you crazy?
Incubation period is anywhere
from 15 to 45 days.
Hello?
Yeah. No, that wasn't the emergency.
If you're feeling lousy lately,
that would account for it.
Never mind, OK?
I can't get sick now, I got
the national boards coming up.
Tell David I'll try and call him.
I love you, too.
Dr Westphall. Uh-huh.
Do you have a minute?
I'm late for a lecture,
do you mind walking along with me?
Not at all.
You've got to help me.
You told me she'd be able
to check out tomorrow.
Where is she going to go?
She's not willing to make
any compromises
about her living arrangements?
Absolutely not.
Mother and I have never really
gotten along.
She is my mother and I love her,
despite the fact that
if she moves in with us,
it will be a nightmare.
I just want to know that she...
she's being taken care of.
Do you want me to see what I can do?
I would appreciate that,
Dr Westphall. Thank you.
Don't thank me yet, I don't think
my talking to her is going to make
much of a difference anyway.
Excuse me.
17 down.
Morocco.
Ah. Uh-huh.
I do crosswords in pen,
do I look like someone
who needs help?
Yes. Come on, try me.
All right.
23 across, eight letters,
plastic silverware.
Oh, oxymoron.
Yeah, a rhetorical figure in which
contradictory terms are combined.
10 across, a named gadget
or trinket, six letters.
Quawor.
How do you spell that?
Q, U, A, W, O, R.
Yeah, that's what the aboriginal
tribes of Borneo used for barter.
Oh, my, that is a scary place,
Borneo.
Yeah, I lost a lot more there
than travellers cheques.
Are you certain?
Yes. Mm-hm.
But then again, I might be reaching.
I wish Dr Carlisle was here, she's
given him all his other shots.
Relax, it will be over in a minute.
He had a real bad reaction
to his second DPT shot.
I would do it myself, but...
Forget it,
you don't want to be the bad guy.
You know how to squeeze the muscle,
instead of pinching the skin?
Jack, do you want to wait outside?
No. No, no, no.
0.25ml, right?
How are you feeling?
I'm fine.
With the national boards
coming up next month,
this would be a hell of a time
to come down with anything.
Everything all right?
Serum immune globulin shot.
My brother who stayed with us
just came down with hepatitis.
Infectious?
According to the doctors in Seattle.
Pete and I got tested,
we'll have the results today.
How are you feeling?
I'm a little tired.
Just give me a little warning,
I'll try and distract him.
It's over.
What?
That's it, button him up.
What a trooper!
You're next.
Jack, I'll need a list
of all the patients you've treated
since you came in contact
with your brother.
I don't have any symptoms.
Just in case. You should notify
your friends, too.
Give them the option of having
a shot now or later.
Dr Westphall, should we inoculate
the rest of the staff?
Yep, I'll get that started.
Drop 'em.
I don't believe this.
Ah!
(CRIES)
The worst part is,
Angelo encourages him.
Is that vanilla
or butterscotch pudding?
Naturally, he doesn't want to study.
His father has convinced him
he has a million-dollar career
kicking a football.
I don't know, I don't know.
He won't listen to me.
Didn't you get pudding?
No, I didn't. Peach cobbler.
I am so hungry,
can I have just a little taste?
Now, now, no food before surgery.
I know, I know.
I went through the same thing
with my son in grade school.
He's in high school now, you now.
I thought you said your son
had graduated Harvard.
What?
Yes. Don't you remember? Last night,
you said your son was valedictorian
of his Harvard graduating class.
Oh, did I say that? You know,
I am always doing that. Lord,
what I meant was my sister's son.
You see, he's like my son.
Yes, Bradford.
Was he or wasn't he valedictorian?
What are you talking about?
I think we got off the track somehow.
Now that I think of it,
the nurses keep on calling you
Miss Gallagher.
Who is that?
What are we talking about here?
Rose, are you all right?
Oh, I'm fine.
I'm fine, I just forgot
what I was about to say.
I'll remember it, but I forgot
what I was about to say.
My God!
I smell a dog.
Do you smell a dog?
Oh, I remember what
I was going to say.
Five years ago, I had long hair,
very long hair,
it was very beautiful.
And I decided to cut it,
because one day I woke up
and I could hardly hold my head up.
My husband, he didn't like the idea,
my kids, they went crazy.
They screamed and they cried, but...
My husband thought
it was a work of art.
But it was very heavy for me,
so I cut it.
I'm the only one
that didn't miss it.
When I cut it,
I felt as light as a kite.
Rose, what you doing?
I know what I need to do.
Don't come near me,
I know what I'm doing.
I took my hair and I took it to
the side, and I started to cut it.
And I cut it and I cut it!
And I cut it!
Rose, dear, we're friends.
We're not friends!
I don't even know who you are!
You can't tell me what to do!
And I cut it and I cut it.
You stay away from me,
I know what I'm doing!
And I cut it and cut it
until I was done.
That's it!
Leave me alone.
How are you feeling, Jack?
Mm.
Pete's doing great.
I just took his temperature, 98.5.
100.6. Uh-oh.
Oh, for crying out loud,
and get out of here.
Do you know someone you could leave
him with for a night?
Pete's never been away
from me overnight.
Well, just till you get
a handle on this thing.
I'd love to take him,
but my sister and brother-in-law
are in from Oneonta.
I've got my hands full
with Tony and Elizabeth.
We're down to day workers.
Oh, all right, I'll take him.
Not this second!
I can't drag him along on rounds.
Susie in Accounting
watches him for me.
Yeah, well, dump him down there.
Not you!
Would you go home, Morrison?
You're ruining everyone's day.
Hey, see you later, sport.
I love you. I'm going now.
See you later. OK?
Jack, you are not putting him
up for adoption, just go.
His food and things are in here,
in the baby bag.
We'll manage.
OK, thank you.
Pete will be fine, Jack.
All right. I'll call you later.
BEEP
Uh, Mr Glover again.
Dr Craig, you know where
Accounting is, don't you?
Don't forget to get your shot.
Well, this is turning
into a hell of a day.
Judy, 1% lidocaine
with epinephrine, please.
Thank you.
Victor.
Sorry.
Nasal speculum.
Mind if I ask a question?
I mean, I don't mean to sound
like a dolt or anything,
but doesn't she have, like,
the perfect nose already?
Look, the septum is deviated
25 degrees to the right.
Big deal, who's going to be
looking inside her nose?
Please don't start, Victor.
Talk about a hooter.
What's her name?
Marcy Pinover, there was a nose.
So big she could pop balloons.
It was always running.
Remember what happened
the last time you assisted me?
Yes, I'm sorry.
I really don't want to throw you
out of the OR again.
Fine, I'm done.
Periosteal elevator.
I'm done.
I will be creating a small elevation
in the septal cartilage.
Janie Havemyre, there was a nose!
Talk about big. Find my car keys
and we'll drive out.
I'll just... I'll go outside
and I'll be out there a minute,
then I'll be done.
Knife.
Your progress is remarkable.
I'll be ready for the marathon.
85 years, step after step,
always on my own.
I plan on leaving
this hospital that way.
So, my son came to cry
on your shoulder, eh?
Evelyn, I think moving in
is a good idea.
It might not be the best of
all possible worlds, but still...
I enjoy living alone.
I want to listen
to my own thoughts in the morning,
not someone flashing
in the next bathroom.
I want to walk out
on my own back porch and watch
the animals in the yard eating
the food that I leave for them.
You need someone to help out.
No!
Now, you listen to me. Since I
first examined you four years ago,
the sight in the right eye
has gone from 2060 to 2200.
You have developed degenerative
arthritis in both your hips.
You are recovering from a broken hip
and you have experienced
irregularities in your heartbeat.
Well, I don't believe in charts,
I believe in feelings,
and I don't feel old,
so why should I act it?
You have to rethink this, Evelyn.
My best friend, Ana,
was put in a nursing home.
I went to visit her once,
I never went back.
I didn't like what she had become.
No. She was alive,
but she was without hope.
I don't care that life is easier
if it means giving up.
I love my home.
Now, if you'll excuse me,
I have to get back to work.
I wish we could be more conclusive.
The only way is with a brain biopsy,
and that is rarely done.
It's just that...
She's not a whole lot older than me.
This is your patient, Wayne, I won't
say anything unless I have to.
Yes, sir.
Mr Orso. This is Dr Auschlander.
He's been helping me
with your wife's diagnosis.
Hi. You found something?
Let's talk in there.
Stay right here.
All of Mrs Orso's symptoms
and tests indicate
a progressive dementia,
often confused with senility.
Your wife has Alzheimer's disease.
Yeah, and?
There is an excessive loss
of brain cells.
Her brain is dying at a much more
advanced rate than her body.
But Rose is so energetic,
she's only 41 years old.
I mean, how could...?
Just like that?
She got it just like that?
It's possible it's been
going on for some time.
But she has been able
to cover it up till now.
Why would she...?
What's going to happen to her?
That's hard to say.
Try. Because to me,
one and one equals two,
and I've got to know
what'll happen.
She won't get any better.
Over the next three to five years,
her mental condition
will continue deteriorating.
She'll become incapable of being
able to take care of you...
..and the children.
And eventually,
incapable of taking care of herself.
There is a lot of research going on,
no cure, at least not yet.
I'm sorry.
Come on, honey, take it like a man.
That's easy enough for you to say.
Oh. I broke my hip and now this.
You come into a hospital
with one thing
and then you limp out with another.
When I was in the Peace Corps,
I inoculated hundreds of natives,
I know it hurts like hell.
You're so doped up from your
operation, you won't feel a thing.
Ow! Oh.
Do you want to bet?
Oh.
Be right out, kiddo.
Smart girl, you got yourself put in
restraints to avoid getting stabbed.
No, practising hairstyling
without a license.
They thought I'd hurt myself.
What are you going to do?
I'm going to give you the shot.
Oh.
Ow.
Oh, that hurts.
I'm sorry I can't undo
the restraints.
Stupid. >
I mean, this is really stupid. >
No, no. I don't know if you should.
Maybe I am crazy, Paige.
We won't let anything happen to you
this time, promise.
I'm sorry I ruined lunch.
Oh, don't worry, they'd already
ruined that in the kitchen.
I don't know what comes over me.
My mind goes to an empty
and horrible place.
And every time it does,
I become more and more of a stranger
than who I really am.
I love my family so much.
I'm really afraid I'm going
to lose them.
I've got such wonderful memories,
and I think I'm going to lose them,
too.
I don't want to hurt myself,
I don't want to hurt anybody else.
Paige, please come back.
Put them back.
Yes.
Is that too tight?
No.
Hi.
How are you doing?
Oh, a lot better than the last time
you looked in on me.
Thanks for taking
off the restraints.
Want some company?
Yeah.
Sure.
So, I guess you got my test
back by now, huh?
What's wrong with me?
Am I crazy?
No, you're not going crazy.
The tests indicate that the brain
tissue has been affected in some way.
And I would like you to stay over.
I want to run a few more minor tests
and explain to you a little better
what's happening.
You a Red Sox fan?
Inside and out.
Me, too.
You know, when I was little,
in the season of '51,
that's when my dad started taking me
to Fenway.
I used to measure the games
in terms of Italians.
Yeah, I did.
Tom DiMaggio played centre for us.
But his brother, the great Joey D
played for the Yankees.
They also had Rizzuto, Raschi,
and the great
Yogi Berra behind the plate.
That was the thing.
I think that is why they always had
the edge over us, better Italians.
The Yankees always featured
outstanding Italians.
Are you Italian?
Lithuanian.
Not too many legendary hardballers
come out of Lithuania.
That's right.
Oh, don't look at my hair.
I'm so embarrassed.
Enjoy the hat.
Oh! Really?
Really.
Oh, thanks. Hey, do you know what?
On Sunday,
the Yankees are playing at Fenway.
A doubleheader!
Maybe I'll see you there.
Yeah.
Have you spoken
with your mother yet?
No. I don't feel like slam dancing
with Mom right now.
Jenny, whenever you have fought
with your mother,
I was glad to have you come
and live at my house.
Oh, me too, Gram. I love it.
Look, I've run out of options.
I'm getting old, I need help.
Well, that's OK,
I'll take care of you.
The two of us,
we can live at your place.
Oh, you wouldn't be happy.
How do you know?
I've decided to sell my house
and try moving in with your parents.
Why? What for?
I've had plenty of time to think
lying on my back.
I've spent my whole life
pushing people away
in the name of independence.
I don't regret it,
but I have realised that
I've never allowed your father
or your mother to get close to me.
I'm serious, Gram,
I can take care of you.
I'm giving up my independence
and you're at an age when
you're just getting yours.
You can't be tied down
to taking care of me.
I love you!
Well, I love you, too.
But you're almost 18.
You can move out and dye your hair
any colour you please,
if that's what you want.
Well, what do you think, huh?
Do you want the truth?
Of course.
You look like Joe Frazier
after the Thrilla in Manila.
Really?
Well, I think you'll look great
when the swelling comes down.
But between you, me
and the lamppost,
I thought you were beautiful
before the operation.
Oh, no. I hated my old nose.
It was a white-bread nose,
the product of generations
of homogenisation.
It lacked character!
You take your nose, for instance.
You see, that's a normal nose, but
it's conceived on an Italian face.
Oh, yeah? Thanks a lot.
Listen, that's a compliment!
I have always wanted to be ethnic,
to be Italian, or Jewish,
or something.
Those people always have character.
Nobody ever stood out in my family.
How about your son,
the valedictorian?
I don't have a son,
I don't have any children.
You're kidding me.
I don't even have a southern accent.
You are kidding!
I lied about everything.
What the hell for?
Because I'm a boring person!
I don't have any character
so I thought that I would be one.
But no more of that,
that's exhausting, you know?
I mean, you get caught,
it turns people off.
You know why I had this operation?
For my mental health.
Yeah, I thought the nose
would give me character
so I wouldn't have to be one.
Crazy, huh?
Listen, I give you my solemn promise
I'm not lying any more. Uh-uh.
You are hysterical.
You made a choice to go nuts
and here I am, with no choice,
going nuts. Two nuts.
In the same room.
You make me laugh!
'Dr Wolf.
Dr Michael Wolf to maternity.'
Next. >
You better go before me,
I got to use the phone.
I said next.
Oh, Dr Cavanero, there must be
some mistake in my files
cos I remember having
hepatitis in 1975.
Luther.
You see, I remember catching
it at my Uncle Nadel's wake.
Just because you have had it once,
doesn't mean you can't have
it again. Come on.
I just don't like to waste medicine.
Today, Luther! >
I'm not afraid.
Don't get the wrong idea, I'm a man.
I mean, The Hawk is not afraid
of nothing.
OK, Doc, hit me with your best shot.
Oh!
Angelo, sweetheart, I love you,
but we cannot afford a private room.
I want you to have it.
But I'm happy here.
Dr Fiscus and the old guy said
what you need is privacy and quiet.
Besides,
nothing is too good for you.
Why do I have to move
in the middle of the night?
Would you shush?
You shush!
Rose,
you don't have to make the bed,
Please, Angelo, you know how I am,
I like to leave things
the way I find them.
Here comes the Angelo Orso express.
Come on, Rose.
Come up and visit, huh?
Paige.
Listen,
thanks for our little talk, huh?
Yeah.
Evelyn, thanks.
I have a feeling you're going
to outlast everybody here.
Oh, I intend to, Rose, I intend to.
OK.
Bye-bye. Goodbye, Rose.
Drop us a line.
Oh, I will, I will.
My hat.
Bye. Bye.
(PETE CRIES)
Ellen, it's your turn.
Where do you get
this "your turn" baloney?
When Stephen was a baby,
I was the one that always got up
with him in the middle of the night.
Oh, I love your selective memory.
1960, Hurricane Donna.
Who calmed Stephen down?
It took me the better part
of an hour to convince him
that thunder
wasn't the least bit dangerous.
It's the lightning
that's going to kill him.
Oh, Pete, you're just
lonely in there, weren't you?
Here, honey,
say hello to your Uncle Mark.
There we go.
There.
You're just going to leave him
sitting there?
Tell him a story. Try Goldilocks.
That's not funny, Ellen.
Is that the one with the wolf?
No, the three bears.
My mother didn't raise me
to be a raconteur.
Um. Once upon a time...
That's a nice kickoff.
Three bears went into a house.
There was the baby bear
and the father bear
and the mother bear,
who was no help at all.
Good night.
And the father bear said, "Please,
baby bear, don't cry any more.
"I have to perform bypass surgery
in the morning."
Well, just you wait, Donald,
in a couple of weeks,
I'll be tap dancing in to see you.
I believe you.
Hello, Dr Westphall.
Your mother's all set.
I brought someone to see you.
Toby! Toby, darling.
I'm sorry, Doctor,
but every once in a while,
you've got to break the rules.
I better get out of here
before the charge nurse catches us.
I'll see you in two weeks.
I hate hospitals, but as hospitals
go, this one isn't bad.
Goodbye.
Bye-bye.
Mother, I've made a decision.
And I don't want any ifs,
ands or buts.
I don't care what you say
or what Harriet says,
I'm putting my foot down,
you're coming with us.
Are you telling me
that Harriet doesn't want me?
Well, she threatened to divorce me,
but I told her to go stuff it.
Good for you.
You're coming to live with us,
that's final.
Well, we can at least give it a try.
Do you mean it?
Yes, I've made up my mind.
Three months trial run.
Is that OK, Toby?
Is Herriot still allergic to dogs?
Yes, yes.
Oh, I guess that this is goodbye.
I didn't really mind
all your stories, you know?
They're called lies.
Well, they were fun.
Goodbye.
Bye.
Hello.
Goodbye.
I counted on a private room.
They should have told me
they were going to put me
in with other people.
Yes, Ms Coleman.
Here we are.
This is for the bed and this button
buzzes out at the nurses' station.
So, if you want 20 minutes
of nobody bothering you, push it.
The bathroom is over there.
Excuse me, how did
the woman in that bed before me do?
Do how?
Did she make it?
Oh! Great.
Good.
What happened to your nose?
My nose?
Did you have some kind of accident?
Hey, didn't you
read about it in the newspaper?
No.
Do you follow roller derby?
I did once, yes.
Yeah? For years I skated
with the New Jersey Chiefs.
You look awfully slim to be
a roller derby skater.
Were you a jammer or a breakaway?
I specialised in breakaways.
I could go like the wind.
You know, sometimes,
just to keep it interesting,
I used to skate backwards
for several laps.
I see. What does that have to do
with your nose?
Oh, I'm getting there, just a second.
Now, one Sunday afternoon game,
it was what, I don't know,
Hartford, Baltimore, one of those,
I can't remember.
I was doing my famous trick
of skating backwards, you know,
and I didn't realise how close
I was getting to the pack.
As I turned around, the back
of the pack jammer elbowed me,
broke my nose,
I got a deviated septum.
You seriously expect me
to believe that story?
Hey, lady, if you care to, I got
a team picture in that drawer,
why don't you open it up
and look for yourself?
I believe you.
They were my happiest days.
My roller derby period. Yeah.
I just went by everybody like a blur.
Tonight, on St Elsewhere...
Mrs Henriquez...
That's the sort of bump
I want put in it.
Usually, people want bumps taken out.
Doesn't she have
a perfect nose already?
Don't start, Victor.
I don't feel old,
so why should I act it?
You have to rethink this.
You have to live
with Harriet and me.
I'd rather die.
And I cut it, and I cut it,
and I cut it!
Stay away from me,
I know what I'm doing!
Pete and I might have hepatitis.
Drop 'em.
Ah!
I've had it with her. Who?
Your patient. Evelyn Milbourne.
Really? I'm surprised. I've been
her doctor since Harwood died,
she hasn't given me trouble.
Well...
You asked me to see her
in the morning.
I take time out from a busy
schedule to do you a favour.
Yes, I appreciate it.
Whenever I try to explain
how delicate her condition is,
she makes fun of me.
I don't like being mimicked.
Now, I have finally decided what
I want my new nose to look like.
That's the sort of bump
I want put in it.
You know, usually people
want bumps taken out.
Good morning.
Good morning, Donald,
what can I do for you?
I have to be
in surgery in 15 minutes,
so maybe you could be
a little more cooperative?
"Mrs Milbourne, I have to be
in surgery in 15 minutes."
See what I mean?
Evelyn, I think you should listen
to what Dr Craig has to say.
Well, all right,
with you here to translate.
Her PVCs and atrial fibrillation
responded to medication.
However, there is a good chance
of stenosis
in the left anterior
descending artery.
If you look here,
her EKGs show Q waves
in leads two, three, V1 and V2.
Translate?
Well, we think that when you fell
and broke her hip,
you might have had a heart attack.
I didn't have any chest pains,
it must have been a very slight one.
There's no such thing
as a slight heart attack.
A broken hip that is mending poorly
and a heart that is threatening -
it's nothing to smile at.
Or to laugh at either.
I'm not laughing at my heart,
I'm laughing at you.
What do you mean?
Do you ever talk to yourself
in the mirror?
Sane people don't talk
to themselves in mirrors.
Try it.
Look in the mirror and pretend
you're talking to me
on the other side.
And watch how you hold your head
and how you purse your lips
as though everything
that you say is a jewel.
Try it, you'll laugh.
Medicine is a serious business,
and I'm due in surgery.
Evelyn,
you have to be nice to our doctors.
Well, I told you, I don't want
to see any doctor but you.
Besides, I hate hospitals.
Who doesn't? All right,
I'll check in on you later.
Try to behave.
No.
Fine, but what I think you should do
is wait for Dr Weinberg
to get back from Caneel Bay.
No, uh-uh, I'm not going to wait.
No.
It's obvious to me that getting
a suntan is more important to him
than doing my nose.
I want the swelling to be down
before my son's graduation
from Valley Forge Military Academy.
He is my only child.
I want to look right, you know, for
the commencement, you understand?
You can understand that, can't you?
Sure.
Thank you, good.
Then, we're on the schedule
for tomorrow.
Oh, thanks so much.
Bye.
Excuse me,
may I borrow this magazine?
Well, certainly, take it.
You look awfully distinguished
to be in a ward,
why aren't you in a private room?
To save money.
I thought so. Me, too.
What are you in for?
A broken hip
and myocardial infarction.
I broke my hip once two years ago.
You know I didn't even need a pin?
It just healed by itself.
My son had a poem in here once.
That was quite a year.
Poem in the Atlantic
and valedictorian
of his graduating class at Harvard.
My only child.
You look very young to have
a son out of college.
Oh?
I married young, but thank you,
really, that's very kind of you.
Wayne, you got a new cap.
Alley of the good.
You look like your old self again -
ridiculous.
Hi, I'm Dr Fiscus,
what's your name?
Do you know your name?
Yes.
Ma'am,
did your husband bring you in?
Oh, I'm not married.
Your chart says Mrs.
I'm not married.
Um... I'll be right back.
'Mr Klein, utility room, Four West.
Mr Klein...'
I'm Angelo, her husband.
Can you tell me what happened?
Well, I don't know. This morning
she left to go shopping,
I was away on business
and the kids called hysterical
because she hadn't come home.
So, we all went looking for her,
and a little while ago,
the police said
they had brought her here.
Does she have a history
of heavy drinking?
No.
She forgets her name, her car keys,
she forgets the kids' names.
Last week she told me
I ruined her life.
Another time, she stopped
in the middle of dinner
and she stared at me
and the kids and said,
"Every night, it's more strangers."
Is she taking any medication?
No.
Has she blacked out?
Doctor, you got to take her in.
Are there any other illnesses?
Headaches, visual disturbances?
No. What's wrong with her?
I don't know.
What, honey?
Angelo. It's OK.
I want to go home.
Admit her, please.
The doctor just wants
to take a few tests.
No, I would like to go home.
Don't worry about it.
So, as usual, we had a fight
and I walked out.
Mom said she didn't want to see me
again until I rinsed the blue out.
I told her to rotate.
Well, you are welcome to stay
at my house if you think it'll help.
Thanks, Gram. We'll see.
But, please, wear a hat when you're
out feeding the animals, will you?
What has she got?
I don't know.
I don't stick my nose
in other people's business.
Her name is Mrs Henriquez.
Yeah.
She has Eastern equine encephalitis.
It is very debilitating.
Do me a favour, go home and do
the things that I asked, will you?
Thank you, darling.
And just being different,
don't forget,
from your mother and father,
doesn't make you independent.
I'll be back tomorrow, Gram.
I think Dad is coming, too.
Oh, that should be a treat.
I can't wait to see the latest
spring fashions in mourning wear.
I assume Harriet will be making
an appearance, too.
Have no fear, we'll leave Mom home.
Bye.
Bye.
Oh, I like her, Evelyn.
Your granddaughter
is really special.
How do you know my name?
Well, I looked on your chart.
And you live alone. Me, too.
I love it. What about you?
Oh, not now, dear, I'm reading.
What are you reading?
What did you say you were in for?
They're not sure yet.
So, you get a three-dimensional
picture of my brain this way? Uh-huh.
You see, the CAT scan takes a series
of X-rays from different angles
and the dye we injected into your
body helps give them contrast.
What happens to the dye later?
It just naturally passes
through your system.
I know this thing looks terrible,
but it doesn't hurt at all.
See you in half an hour.
How's it going?
They're just starting.
I was on my way to your office,
I had made an appointment.
I know, but it felt like a walk.
What's her problem?
Well, for a while, Mrs Orso
was perfectly fine.
She's logical, she's coherent.
And then all of a sudden, she's off.
I mean, she doesn't recognise
friends or relatives,
sometimes not even herself.
Head trauma?
No.
Spinal tap?
Fluid's as clear as a bell.
Has she been up to Psych?
First day. I'm stumped.
I was wondering if I can impose
on you to give her a look.
I'd be glad to.
But what about talking to Doc Simon?
He's our top neurologist.
He's in New Haven on a consult.
Blowing his own horn, no doubt.
She's breathing funny.
Don't you think her breathing
sounds funny?
Well, I hadn't really noticed.
There is an awful lot
of unnecessary surgery done.
Doctors like to make profits.
No, I mean surgery that the patient
wants that isn't life-threatening.
Like, uh... Circumcision!
Oh, but circumcision isn't really
the patient's choice, is it?
I get the feeling sometimes
that you go on a little too long,
Mrs Gallagher.
Oh, please, just call me Paige.
You must be tired.
Yes. A lot of tests.
Here we are.
Thanks for the ride.
This is for the bed and this button
buzzes out to the nurses' station.
Now, if you want nobody to bother
you for 20 minutes, push it.
Thank you.
And the bathroom
is right over there.
Thank you.
Hi.
Hello.
Time for lights out, everybody.
You can keep your overheads
on to read, if you like. Good night.
Well, sweet dreams, ladies.
My, I feel like I'm back
in summer camp.
When are they going to blow Taps?
Good night, Mrs Gallagher.
Nighty-night.
HEAVY BREATHING
What's wrong with her?
Mrs Henriquez.
Mrs Henriquez.
Stop shaking her and call the nurse.
Oh.
Oh. Oh, God.
Oh, God.
Hurry! Hurry!
Do something.
Go back to bed.
Right now!
We were just trying to help.
Code blue, room 4202.
Code blue 4202.
The best you can do
is go back to bed.
It's probably nothing.
What's with all those machines?
OK, what's the story?
She's been in a coma for three
weeks and is on nasal oxygen now.
OK, give me a 23 ET tube
and a curved scope.
Last week, she developed a urinary
tract infection and a septicaemia.
BP 60, palp.
OK, just open the IV
according to the chart.
The patient is "do not resuscitate".
Shouldn't somebody call her family?
OK, that is it.
Are you Mrs Henriquez's physician?
No, I never saw her before just now.
Velasco is the attendee?
Uh-huh. Ok.
You'll want to notify the family.
Not me.
Right.
Are they going to leave her here
all night?
Oh, I'm sure someone will come by.
Of course.
Well, good night.
Good night.
Sweet dreams.
By the way, my name is Rose.
Ah.
I just couldn't take
any more from Mom,
so last night I packed up
and moved over to your place.
What have they got planned for you
this time, the rack?
No.
It is called an EEG, am I right?
It sounds expensive.
I've gone this far.
Hello, Mother.
I got these from that little man
on Milk Street,
where Father used to buy you flowers.
Jennifer.
Hi, Dad. Is Mom coming, too?
No, she, um, had an appointment
she couldn't break.
I'll bet.
How come you're not at school
at 9.30 on a weekday morning?
I'm on my way, OK?
I just stopped by to see Gram
and tell her I fed Toby.
You've got to learn,
when things are not going the way
you want at home,
the solution is not
running off to Grandma.
Fine.
And call your mother.
Let her know you're still on Earth.
I can't believe the way that you
and Harriet are raising Jenny.
You keep out of it, Mother.
Well, I can't for the life of me
understand why you won't allow her
to express her individuality,
let her become
what she's going to become.
I know you don't approve
of the way we live our lives.
That's all right, you've never
approved of the way I live my life.
(LAUGHS)
Well, at least you can still laugh.
I had a long conversation with
Dr Westphall yesterday afternoon.
You had a heart attack.
How could you have a heart attack
and not mention it to me?
Sometimes I find your behaviour
absolutely astounding.
I was going to tell you today.
I had a heart attack.
There, I told you.
Do you feel more included?
Your condition is far more serious
than you pretend.
Apparently, it's too dangerous
for you to live alone any more.
Really? Yes, really.
Well, what do you suggest?
It's obvious, isn't it?
You have to come live
with Harriet and me.
I'd rather die.
Would you rather go to
a retirement home?
I'm not going anywhere.
Least of all to your house
to live with you and Harriet.
This isn't...going well.
No, it isn't.
I guess I should be...
Going.
Thanks for the flowers.
Don't let the door hit
you on your way out.
I'll come see you tomorrow.
Uh-huh.
I find it hard to believe
that he's your son.
So do I.
Yep, spring is finally here.
Yeah.
Oh, did you and Dad get the...
get the pictures I sent you?
Yeah?
Weren't they great?
Of course I took them.
Well, David is right,
I had a great time.
Yes, I got a parking ticket.
Could you transfer me, please?
You couldn't take this phone?
Thank you.
Wait, what do you mean?
Yes, I'm a doctor.
Are they sure it is hepatitis?
I got a parking ticket
while I was in an emergency.
Which type?
Yeah, 11052.
Did Dr Fogel take it
while he was here?
Fiscus says this works every time.
If he did, that means
that Pete and I have hepatitis.
What are you talking about?
You've got hep?
Are you crazy?
Incubation period is anywhere
from 15 to 45 days.
Hello?
Yeah. No, that wasn't the emergency.
If you're feeling lousy lately,
that would account for it.
Never mind, OK?
I can't get sick now, I got
the national boards coming up.
Tell David I'll try and call him.
I love you, too.
Dr Westphall. Uh-huh.
Do you have a minute?
I'm late for a lecture,
do you mind walking along with me?
Not at all.
You've got to help me.
You told me she'd be able
to check out tomorrow.
Where is she going to go?
She's not willing to make
any compromises
about her living arrangements?
Absolutely not.
Mother and I have never really
gotten along.
She is my mother and I love her,
despite the fact that
if she moves in with us,
it will be a nightmare.
I just want to know that she...
she's being taken care of.
Do you want me to see what I can do?
I would appreciate that,
Dr Westphall. Thank you.
Don't thank me yet, I don't think
my talking to her is going to make
much of a difference anyway.
Excuse me.
17 down.
Morocco.
Ah. Uh-huh.
I do crosswords in pen,
do I look like someone
who needs help?
Yes. Come on, try me.
All right.
23 across, eight letters,
plastic silverware.
Oh, oxymoron.
Yeah, a rhetorical figure in which
contradictory terms are combined.
10 across, a named gadget
or trinket, six letters.
Quawor.
How do you spell that?
Q, U, A, W, O, R.
Yeah, that's what the aboriginal
tribes of Borneo used for barter.
Oh, my, that is a scary place,
Borneo.
Yeah, I lost a lot more there
than travellers cheques.
Are you certain?
Yes. Mm-hm.
But then again, I might be reaching.
I wish Dr Carlisle was here, she's
given him all his other shots.
Relax, it will be over in a minute.
He had a real bad reaction
to his second DPT shot.
I would do it myself, but...
Forget it,
you don't want to be the bad guy.
You know how to squeeze the muscle,
instead of pinching the skin?
Jack, do you want to wait outside?
No. No, no, no.
0.25ml, right?
How are you feeling?
I'm fine.
With the national boards
coming up next month,
this would be a hell of a time
to come down with anything.
Everything all right?
Serum immune globulin shot.
My brother who stayed with us
just came down with hepatitis.
Infectious?
According to the doctors in Seattle.
Pete and I got tested,
we'll have the results today.
How are you feeling?
I'm a little tired.
Just give me a little warning,
I'll try and distract him.
It's over.
What?
That's it, button him up.
What a trooper!
You're next.
Jack, I'll need a list
of all the patients you've treated
since you came in contact
with your brother.
I don't have any symptoms.
Just in case. You should notify
your friends, too.
Give them the option of having
a shot now or later.
Dr Westphall, should we inoculate
the rest of the staff?
Yep, I'll get that started.
Drop 'em.
I don't believe this.
Ah!
(CRIES)
The worst part is,
Angelo encourages him.
Is that vanilla
or butterscotch pudding?
Naturally, he doesn't want to study.
His father has convinced him
he has a million-dollar career
kicking a football.
I don't know, I don't know.
He won't listen to me.
Didn't you get pudding?
No, I didn't. Peach cobbler.
I am so hungry,
can I have just a little taste?
Now, now, no food before surgery.
I know, I know.
I went through the same thing
with my son in grade school.
He's in high school now, you now.
I thought you said your son
had graduated Harvard.
What?
Yes. Don't you remember? Last night,
you said your son was valedictorian
of his Harvard graduating class.
Oh, did I say that? You know,
I am always doing that. Lord,
what I meant was my sister's son.
You see, he's like my son.
Yes, Bradford.
Was he or wasn't he valedictorian?
What are you talking about?
I think we got off the track somehow.
Now that I think of it,
the nurses keep on calling you
Miss Gallagher.
Who is that?
What are we talking about here?
Rose, are you all right?
Oh, I'm fine.
I'm fine, I just forgot
what I was about to say.
I'll remember it, but I forgot
what I was about to say.
My God!
I smell a dog.
Do you smell a dog?
Oh, I remember what
I was going to say.
Five years ago, I had long hair,
very long hair,
it was very beautiful.
And I decided to cut it,
because one day I woke up
and I could hardly hold my head up.
My husband, he didn't like the idea,
my kids, they went crazy.
They screamed and they cried, but...
My husband thought
it was a work of art.
But it was very heavy for me,
so I cut it.
I'm the only one
that didn't miss it.
When I cut it,
I felt as light as a kite.
Rose, what you doing?
I know what I need to do.
Don't come near me,
I know what I'm doing.
I took my hair and I took it to
the side, and I started to cut it.
And I cut it and I cut it!
And I cut it!
Rose, dear, we're friends.
We're not friends!
I don't even know who you are!
You can't tell me what to do!
And I cut it and I cut it.
You stay away from me,
I know what I'm doing!
And I cut it and cut it
until I was done.
That's it!
Leave me alone.
How are you feeling, Jack?
Mm.
Pete's doing great.
I just took his temperature, 98.5.
100.6. Uh-oh.
Oh, for crying out loud,
and get out of here.
Do you know someone you could leave
him with for a night?
Pete's never been away
from me overnight.
Well, just till you get
a handle on this thing.
I'd love to take him,
but my sister and brother-in-law
are in from Oneonta.
I've got my hands full
with Tony and Elizabeth.
We're down to day workers.
Oh, all right, I'll take him.
Not this second!
I can't drag him along on rounds.
Susie in Accounting
watches him for me.
Yeah, well, dump him down there.
Not you!
Would you go home, Morrison?
You're ruining everyone's day.
Hey, see you later, sport.
I love you. I'm going now.
See you later. OK?
Jack, you are not putting him
up for adoption, just go.
His food and things are in here,
in the baby bag.
We'll manage.
OK, thank you.
Pete will be fine, Jack.
All right. I'll call you later.
BEEP
Uh, Mr Glover again.
Dr Craig, you know where
Accounting is, don't you?
Don't forget to get your shot.
Well, this is turning
into a hell of a day.
Judy, 1% lidocaine
with epinephrine, please.
Thank you.
Victor.
Sorry.
Nasal speculum.
Mind if I ask a question?
I mean, I don't mean to sound
like a dolt or anything,
but doesn't she have, like,
the perfect nose already?
Look, the septum is deviated
25 degrees to the right.
Big deal, who's going to be
looking inside her nose?
Please don't start, Victor.
Talk about a hooter.
What's her name?
Marcy Pinover, there was a nose.
So big she could pop balloons.
It was always running.
Remember what happened
the last time you assisted me?
Yes, I'm sorry.
I really don't want to throw you
out of the OR again.
Fine, I'm done.
Periosteal elevator.
I'm done.
I will be creating a small elevation
in the septal cartilage.
Janie Havemyre, there was a nose!
Talk about big. Find my car keys
and we'll drive out.
I'll just... I'll go outside
and I'll be out there a minute,
then I'll be done.
Knife.
Your progress is remarkable.
I'll be ready for the marathon.
85 years, step after step,
always on my own.
I plan on leaving
this hospital that way.
So, my son came to cry
on your shoulder, eh?
Evelyn, I think moving in
is a good idea.
It might not be the best of
all possible worlds, but still...
I enjoy living alone.
I want to listen
to my own thoughts in the morning,
not someone flashing
in the next bathroom.
I want to walk out
on my own back porch and watch
the animals in the yard eating
the food that I leave for them.
You need someone to help out.
No!
Now, you listen to me. Since I
first examined you four years ago,
the sight in the right eye
has gone from 2060 to 2200.
You have developed degenerative
arthritis in both your hips.
You are recovering from a broken hip
and you have experienced
irregularities in your heartbeat.
Well, I don't believe in charts,
I believe in feelings,
and I don't feel old,
so why should I act it?
You have to rethink this, Evelyn.
My best friend, Ana,
was put in a nursing home.
I went to visit her once,
I never went back.
I didn't like what she had become.
No. She was alive,
but she was without hope.
I don't care that life is easier
if it means giving up.
I love my home.
Now, if you'll excuse me,
I have to get back to work.
I wish we could be more conclusive.
The only way is with a brain biopsy,
and that is rarely done.
It's just that...
She's not a whole lot older than me.
This is your patient, Wayne, I won't
say anything unless I have to.
Yes, sir.
Mr Orso. This is Dr Auschlander.
He's been helping me
with your wife's diagnosis.
Hi. You found something?
Let's talk in there.
Stay right here.
All of Mrs Orso's symptoms
and tests indicate
a progressive dementia,
often confused with senility.
Your wife has Alzheimer's disease.
Yeah, and?
There is an excessive loss
of brain cells.
Her brain is dying at a much more
advanced rate than her body.
But Rose is so energetic,
she's only 41 years old.
I mean, how could...?
Just like that?
She got it just like that?
It's possible it's been
going on for some time.
But she has been able
to cover it up till now.
Why would she...?
What's going to happen to her?
That's hard to say.
Try. Because to me,
one and one equals two,
and I've got to know
what'll happen.
She won't get any better.
Over the next three to five years,
her mental condition
will continue deteriorating.
She'll become incapable of being
able to take care of you...
..and the children.
And eventually,
incapable of taking care of herself.
There is a lot of research going on,
no cure, at least not yet.
I'm sorry.
Come on, honey, take it like a man.
That's easy enough for you to say.
Oh. I broke my hip and now this.
You come into a hospital
with one thing
and then you limp out with another.
When I was in the Peace Corps,
I inoculated hundreds of natives,
I know it hurts like hell.
You're so doped up from your
operation, you won't feel a thing.
Ow! Oh.
Do you want to bet?
Oh.
Be right out, kiddo.
Smart girl, you got yourself put in
restraints to avoid getting stabbed.
No, practising hairstyling
without a license.
They thought I'd hurt myself.
What are you going to do?
I'm going to give you the shot.
Oh.
Ow.
Oh, that hurts.
I'm sorry I can't undo
the restraints.
Stupid. >
I mean, this is really stupid. >
No, no. I don't know if you should.
Maybe I am crazy, Paige.
We won't let anything happen to you
this time, promise.
I'm sorry I ruined lunch.
Oh, don't worry, they'd already
ruined that in the kitchen.
I don't know what comes over me.
My mind goes to an empty
and horrible place.
And every time it does,
I become more and more of a stranger
than who I really am.
I love my family so much.
I'm really afraid I'm going
to lose them.
I've got such wonderful memories,
and I think I'm going to lose them,
too.
I don't want to hurt myself,
I don't want to hurt anybody else.
Paige, please come back.
Put them back.
Yes.
Is that too tight?
No.
Hi.
How are you doing?
Oh, a lot better than the last time
you looked in on me.
Thanks for taking
off the restraints.
Want some company?
Yeah.
Sure.
So, I guess you got my test
back by now, huh?
What's wrong with me?
Am I crazy?
No, you're not going crazy.
The tests indicate that the brain
tissue has been affected in some way.
And I would like you to stay over.
I want to run a few more minor tests
and explain to you a little better
what's happening.
You a Red Sox fan?
Inside and out.
Me, too.
You know, when I was little,
in the season of '51,
that's when my dad started taking me
to Fenway.
I used to measure the games
in terms of Italians.
Yeah, I did.
Tom DiMaggio played centre for us.
But his brother, the great Joey D
played for the Yankees.
They also had Rizzuto, Raschi,
and the great
Yogi Berra behind the plate.
That was the thing.
I think that is why they always had
the edge over us, better Italians.
The Yankees always featured
outstanding Italians.
Are you Italian?
Lithuanian.
Not too many legendary hardballers
come out of Lithuania.
That's right.
Oh, don't look at my hair.
I'm so embarrassed.
Enjoy the hat.
Oh! Really?
Really.
Oh, thanks. Hey, do you know what?
On Sunday,
the Yankees are playing at Fenway.
A doubleheader!
Maybe I'll see you there.
Yeah.
Have you spoken
with your mother yet?
No. I don't feel like slam dancing
with Mom right now.
Jenny, whenever you have fought
with your mother,
I was glad to have you come
and live at my house.
Oh, me too, Gram. I love it.
Look, I've run out of options.
I'm getting old, I need help.
Well, that's OK,
I'll take care of you.
The two of us,
we can live at your place.
Oh, you wouldn't be happy.
How do you know?
I've decided to sell my house
and try moving in with your parents.
Why? What for?
I've had plenty of time to think
lying on my back.
I've spent my whole life
pushing people away
in the name of independence.
I don't regret it,
but I have realised that
I've never allowed your father
or your mother to get close to me.
I'm serious, Gram,
I can take care of you.
I'm giving up my independence
and you're at an age when
you're just getting yours.
You can't be tied down
to taking care of me.
I love you!
Well, I love you, too.
But you're almost 18.
You can move out and dye your hair
any colour you please,
if that's what you want.
Well, what do you think, huh?
Do you want the truth?
Of course.
You look like Joe Frazier
after the Thrilla in Manila.
Really?
Well, I think you'll look great
when the swelling comes down.
But between you, me
and the lamppost,
I thought you were beautiful
before the operation.
Oh, no. I hated my old nose.
It was a white-bread nose,
the product of generations
of homogenisation.
It lacked character!
You take your nose, for instance.
You see, that's a normal nose, but
it's conceived on an Italian face.
Oh, yeah? Thanks a lot.
Listen, that's a compliment!
I have always wanted to be ethnic,
to be Italian, or Jewish,
or something.
Those people always have character.
Nobody ever stood out in my family.
How about your son,
the valedictorian?
I don't have a son,
I don't have any children.
You're kidding me.
I don't even have a southern accent.
You are kidding!
I lied about everything.
What the hell for?
Because I'm a boring person!
I don't have any character
so I thought that I would be one.
But no more of that,
that's exhausting, you know?
I mean, you get caught,
it turns people off.
You know why I had this operation?
For my mental health.
Yeah, I thought the nose
would give me character
so I wouldn't have to be one.
Crazy, huh?
Listen, I give you my solemn promise
I'm not lying any more. Uh-uh.
You are hysterical.
You made a choice to go nuts
and here I am, with no choice,
going nuts. Two nuts.
In the same room.
You make me laugh!
'Dr Wolf.
Dr Michael Wolf to maternity.'
Next. >
You better go before me,
I got to use the phone.
I said next.
Oh, Dr Cavanero, there must be
some mistake in my files
cos I remember having
hepatitis in 1975.
Luther.
You see, I remember catching
it at my Uncle Nadel's wake.
Just because you have had it once,
doesn't mean you can't have
it again. Come on.
I just don't like to waste medicine.
Today, Luther! >
I'm not afraid.
Don't get the wrong idea, I'm a man.
I mean, The Hawk is not afraid
of nothing.
OK, Doc, hit me with your best shot.
Oh!
Angelo, sweetheart, I love you,
but we cannot afford a private room.
I want you to have it.
But I'm happy here.
Dr Fiscus and the old guy said
what you need is privacy and quiet.
Besides,
nothing is too good for you.
Why do I have to move
in the middle of the night?
Would you shush?
You shush!
Rose,
you don't have to make the bed,
Please, Angelo, you know how I am,
I like to leave things
the way I find them.
Here comes the Angelo Orso express.
Come on, Rose.
Come up and visit, huh?
Paige.
Listen,
thanks for our little talk, huh?
Yeah.
Evelyn, thanks.
I have a feeling you're going
to outlast everybody here.
Oh, I intend to, Rose, I intend to.
OK.
Bye-bye. Goodbye, Rose.
Drop us a line.
Oh, I will, I will.
My hat.
Bye. Bye.
(PETE CRIES)
Ellen, it's your turn.
Where do you get
this "your turn" baloney?
When Stephen was a baby,
I was the one that always got up
with him in the middle of the night.
Oh, I love your selective memory.
1960, Hurricane Donna.
Who calmed Stephen down?
It took me the better part
of an hour to convince him
that thunder
wasn't the least bit dangerous.
It's the lightning
that's going to kill him.
Oh, Pete, you're just
lonely in there, weren't you?
Here, honey,
say hello to your Uncle Mark.
There we go.
There.
You're just going to leave him
sitting there?
Tell him a story. Try Goldilocks.
That's not funny, Ellen.
Is that the one with the wolf?
No, the three bears.
My mother didn't raise me
to be a raconteur.
Um. Once upon a time...
That's a nice kickoff.
Three bears went into a house.
There was the baby bear
and the father bear
and the mother bear,
who was no help at all.
Good night.
And the father bear said, "Please,
baby bear, don't cry any more.
"I have to perform bypass surgery
in the morning."
Well, just you wait, Donald,
in a couple of weeks,
I'll be tap dancing in to see you.
I believe you.
Hello, Dr Westphall.
Your mother's all set.
I brought someone to see you.
Toby! Toby, darling.
I'm sorry, Doctor,
but every once in a while,
you've got to break the rules.
I better get out of here
before the charge nurse catches us.
I'll see you in two weeks.
I hate hospitals, but as hospitals
go, this one isn't bad.
Goodbye.
Bye-bye.
Mother, I've made a decision.
And I don't want any ifs,
ands or buts.
I don't care what you say
or what Harriet says,
I'm putting my foot down,
you're coming with us.
Are you telling me
that Harriet doesn't want me?
Well, she threatened to divorce me,
but I told her to go stuff it.
Good for you.
You're coming to live with us,
that's final.
Well, we can at least give it a try.
Do you mean it?
Yes, I've made up my mind.
Three months trial run.
Is that OK, Toby?
Is Herriot still allergic to dogs?
Yes, yes.
Oh, I guess that this is goodbye.
I didn't really mind
all your stories, you know?
They're called lies.
Well, they were fun.
Goodbye.
Bye.
Hello.
Goodbye.
I counted on a private room.
They should have told me
they were going to put me
in with other people.
Yes, Ms Coleman.
Here we are.
This is for the bed and this button
buzzes out at the nurses' station.
So, if you want 20 minutes
of nobody bothering you, push it.
The bathroom is over there.
Excuse me, how did
the woman in that bed before me do?
Do how?
Did she make it?
Oh! Great.
Good.
What happened to your nose?
My nose?
Did you have some kind of accident?
Hey, didn't you
read about it in the newspaper?
No.
Do you follow roller derby?
I did once, yes.
Yeah? For years I skated
with the New Jersey Chiefs.
You look awfully slim to be
a roller derby skater.
Were you a jammer or a breakaway?
I specialised in breakaways.
I could go like the wind.
You know, sometimes,
just to keep it interesting,
I used to skate backwards
for several laps.
I see. What does that have to do
with your nose?
Oh, I'm getting there, just a second.
Now, one Sunday afternoon game,
it was what, I don't know,
Hartford, Baltimore, one of those,
I can't remember.
I was doing my famous trick
of skating backwards, you know,
and I didn't realise how close
I was getting to the pack.
As I turned around, the back
of the pack jammer elbowed me,
broke my nose,
I got a deviated septum.
You seriously expect me
to believe that story?
Hey, lady, if you care to, I got
a team picture in that drawer,
why don't you open it up
and look for yourself?
I believe you.
They were my happiest days.
My roller derby period. Yeah.
I just went by everybody like a blur.