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get kicked out of the lamaza class after Billy intervins with the teacher |
Kronk takes issues with a Lamaze instructor who encourages pregnant women to forego anesthesia during childbirth. The instructor tires of Kronk's constant interruptions and has him kicked out of the class — much to Grad's embarrassment.
Hancock tells Kronk about a case involving a mother, Ellen Ramsey, and their two children, Jason and Brent, who fell ill after consuming poisonous mushrooms. All three are in dire need of emergency liver transplants. Ellen's husband, Jerry, volunteers his own liver in order to save his family. Kronk gives the idea serious consideration, as it could save the life of one — but not both — of the boys. Hancock cautions, however, that the procedure could seriously incapacitate or even kill Jerry.
Shutt meets with Helen Sherwood, a psychiatric patient who has a history of self-mutilation and suicidal thoughts. When the conversation shifts to Helen's childhood, she breaks into sobs, describing how her father made her feel like "a freak." Later, Dr. Frank tells Shutt that Helen is the perfect candidate for hypnotherapy, in which she would be hypnotically induced to answer questions about her childhood. The procedure is highly controversial, and Shutt is not entirely comfortable with the idea.
Watters tells Austin that the hospital's insurance company has offered substantial discount on liability insurance for physicians who attend a sensitivity training workshop. Austin cannot hide her complete disinterest in the idea... until Watters sweetens the pot by promising it involves a stay at a posh resort. Austin agrees to attend the workshop — even though it means having Dr. Cacaci as a partner.
Tests reveal that Jerry's liver is a match for both Brent and Jason. Unfortunately, it places Jerry in a position of having to choose which of his sons receives the transplant. Hancock later accuses Kronk of shirking his responsibility as a doctor by placing the burden on Jerry. Eventually, Jerry chooses Jason as the recipient, as Brent is asthmatic and less likely to survive. Jerry is heartsick over the decision.
Dr. Frank places Helen under a state of hypnosis. Shutt then takes her back to her childhood. The procedure causes Helen to remember an encounter with her father inside her bedroom, one in which he brings her some water. Helen suddenly grows frightened, and Shutt calms her. Later, Frank voices his opinion that Helen may have been sexually abused by her father. Shutt cautiously agrees, but notes Helen's extreme instability, leaving some room for doubt.
Austin cannot hide her complete contempt for the sensitivity workshop, which is supervised by Rolf Cabot. At one point, while enacting a role-playing exercise in which she must tell "family member" Cacaci that his wife has died, Austin bursts out laughing. Later, Austin informs Cabot that his program is a complete waste of time.
Catera is surprised when Grad tells her she never told Kronk about her near rape in the cabin. Grad agrees that she does need to broach the subject. Later, Grad informs Kronk what transpired. Kronk blames himself for not being there for her. Grad breaks down, crying.
Helen's father, Howard, pays Shutt an unexpected visit. He tells Shutt he is shocked by his daughter's accusations, and accused him of planting the ideas in her mind. Later, Shutt reviews a videotape of Helen's therapy session, paying particular attention to a segment in which Helen states that her father is touching her in an inappropriate manner — and asks that someone tell him to stop.
Jason and Jerry survive the transplant operation and both are expected to recover. When Jerry regains consciousness, a liver becomes available for transplant — one that is a match for Mrs. Ramsey. However, Kronk decides to split the organ and save Brent's life as well. Later, Kronk tells Hancock he was right about not forcing Jerry to make the decision about who lives and who dies. Kronk laments he knew he could never make such a decision on his own... and left it up to the father.
Helen tells Shutt she no longer experiences suicidal tendencies. She also tells him that her father sent her flowers — something Shutt finds odd. Later, Howard makes another unannounced visit. He tells Shutt his daughter has broken off all contact. Shutt tells Howard he should listen to his daughter's words — and stay away from her.
Kronk finds a Lamaze class that will accept them — one called Kvetching and Stretching, which is tailored towards Jewish couples.
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