Ep 2. Rise from the Dead

Chicago Hope season 2 episode 2, "Rise from the Dead," follows the staff of Chicago Hope hospital as they face a number of challenging cases. The episode opens with Dr. Jeffrey Geiger (Mandy Patinkin) returning to work after a leave of absence following the death of his wife. Geiger, who is still grieving, struggles to reconnect with his colleagues and patients.

Meanwhile, trauma surgeon Dr. Aaron Shutt (Adam Arkin) is tasked with treating a man who has been in a coma for years. The man's wife believes that he is showing signs of consciousness and wants to take him out of the hospital to pursue alternative treatments. Shutt is skeptical but agrees to run tests on the patient to determine if there is any hope of recovery.

Elsewhere, pediatrician Dr. Jack McNeil (Mark Harmon) treats a young girl who was bitten by a poisonous snake. McNeil works with the hospital's toxicologist to find an antidote, but the girl's condition worsens. As the clock ticks, McNeil must decide whether to risk an experimental treatment that could save her life.

Finally, surgeon Dr. Phillip Watters (Hector Elizondo) is faced with a moral dilemma when a pregnant patient asks him to perform an abortion. Watters, who is a devout Catholic, struggles with the decision and seeks guidance from a priest.

"Rise from the Dead" explores themes of grief, hope, and morality as the characters confront difficult medical cases and personal issues. The episode showcases the talent of the cast, particularly Patinkin, who delivers a powerful performance as a man struggling to come to terms with his loss. The script is well-written and balances the medical cases with the characters' personal lives.

Overall, Chicago Hope season 2 episode 2 is a compelling and thought-provoking hour of television that will engage viewers with its complex characters and timely themes.