Ep 21. Take These Broken Wings

In ER season 2 episode 21, titled "Take These Broken Wings," the show opens with Dr. Greene's recurring nightmares about the death of a young woman he had treated earlier. Meanwhile, the hospital staff deals with various medical cases, including a young boy injured in a bicycle accident and a surgical case that becomes complicated when the patient experiences a heart attack.

As the day progresses, Dr. Greene treats an elderly woman with a broken hip who is struggling with dementia. He also deals with a difficult mother who is not willing to vaccinate her child and an older gentleman with Parkinson's disease who is struggling with a wife who no longer recognizes him.

The episode also touches upon Dr. Lewis's personal life, as her sister is diagnosed with breast cancer. She feels helpless as her sister starts chemotherapy and tries to balance her work at the hospital with taking care of her sister.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Greene's nightmares continue to haunt him until he finally confronts them head-on with the help of a therapist. He comes to terms with his own mortality and gains a new perspective on life, which helps him treat his patients with renewed compassion and empathy.

As the episode comes to an end, the staff gathers to say goodbye to a beloved nurse who is retiring after many years of service. The emotional scene reminds them all of the deep connections they have formed with each other and with the patients they serve.

"Take These Broken Wings" is a powerful episode that explores the complexities of life and death, the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, and the importance of connecting with people on a deeper level. It is a reminder of the critical role that healthcare professionals play in our lives, and the incredible impact that they can have on the people they care for.