Ep 3. Papa's Got a Brand New Bag

Papa's Got a Brand New Bag is the third episode of the third season of Chicago Hope. The episode follows the story of a father who is reluctant to let his son undergo a risky surgery to remove a brain tumor. The father, played by guest star Ed Asner, is adamant that his son should not go under the knife, fearing the worst-case scenario.

The episode highlights the difficulties faced by doctors when patients and their families come to different decisions about treatment options. The father's stubbornness leads to tension between him and the medical team, who want to do what is in the best interest of the patient.

Meanwhile, surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Geiger, played by Mandy Patinkin, struggles with his feelings for Dr. Kathryn Austin, played by Christine Lahti. The pair had an affair in the past, and their complicated relationship adds a layer of drama to the already tense hospital environment.

As the episode progresses, the father's stance on the surgery begins to soften as he witnesses the care and support given to his son by the medical team. His change of heart leads to a heartwarming moment as he finally meets with his son, who has just come out of successful surgery.

The episode also features a subplot involving a patient who has been misdiagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome but is actually suffering from a rare disorder. The medical team must work quickly to save the patient's life, and in doing so, they confront their own shortcomings as doctors.

Overall, Papa's Got a Brand New Bag serves as a reminder of the difficulties faced by patients and their families when making medical decisions. It also highlights the importance of trust and communication between patients and their medical team. With strong performances from the cast and a resonant storyline, this episode is a standout in the third season of Chicago Hope.