Ep 22. John Carter, M.D.

In ER season 2 episode 22, titled "John Carter, M.D.," the focus shifts to the character of Dr. John Carter as he struggles to balance his personal and professional life.

The episode opens with Carter attending a family gathering at his grandfather's home in Philadelphia. We learn that Carter has been avoiding these events for several years due to the tension between his family and himself. His grandfather has always been disappointed in his choice to become a doctor, feeling that he should have followed in the family business instead.

Back at County General, things are hectic as usual. A young woman named Sarah comes in after a failed suicide attempt. She tried to overdose on pills and is now unconscious and on life support. Carter is tasked with managing her care, and he becomes emotionally invested in her case. He learns that Sarah is an artist who has been struggling with depression and a lack of support from her family.

Meanwhile, Dr. Benton is dealing with his own personal issues. His mother has been diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative neurological disease, and he is struggling to come to terms with her prognosis. This storyline provides a nice contrast to Carter's own family issues and reinforces the idea that doctors are humans with their own struggles and emotions.

As the episode progresses, Carter becomes increasingly invested in Sarah's case. He spends time with her, talking to her about her art and trying to understand her feelings of despair. He even shares a personal story about his own struggles with his family. His dedication to her care pays off when she wakes up and is able to withdraw from life support.

In the end, Carter returns to Philadelphia for another family gathering. This time, though, he has a newfound appreciation for his family and their traditions. He realizes that he can be both a doctor and a member of his family, that the two aren't mutually exclusive.

One of the strengths of this episode is its focus on character development. We see new sides to both Carter and Benton, as well as glimpses into the lives of the patients they treat. The theme of balancing work and personal life is a relatable one, and it lends the episode a sense of universality.

Another strength is the way the show handles the issue of suicide. It's a delicate topic, but the show manages to treat it with the respect it deserves. The character of Sarah is treated as a whole person, not just a tragic figure to be pitied. By the end of the episode, the viewer feels invested in her recovery, which is a testament to the show's ability to create fully-realized characters.

Overall, ER season 2 episode 22 is a strong entry in the series. With its emphasis on character development and its handling of sensitive topics, it stands out even amongst a show known for its thoughtfulness and depth. Fans of the show will find much to appreciate here, and newcomers to the series will get a sense of the show's strengths.