To Absent Friends Holby City

Hertzig Three is about giving a very sick person a life worth living.

-She says "jump", you say "how high"?

-Come on, Mo, what do you want form me?

You've more heart in your little finger than she has in her whole body.

-Just leave it! It's none of your business.

-Fine.

I'll see you around, yeah?

I worked with Professor Tim Wong in Sydney.

He said I should do my utmost to get to work with you.

He said I should do my utmost to get any opportunity to

work under Henrik Hanssen.

'Do you disagree with the changes the Government are making?

'Yes, in their current form, I disagree.'

I'm concerned about your decision making. I think you need a break.

PHONE RINGS

ANSWER MACHINE: 'Henrik Hanssen.'

Mr Griffin here. Back from holiday.

I wonder if I could to speak to you urgently,

please, about the unresolved management issues on Keller.

I think you know where to find...

Going to need some help here!

We're losing him.

-Can I help?

-You work here?

-Yes, I'm...

-Fine. Take over compressions.

BEEPING

ED are fully backed up. Let's get him to AAU now!

You heard her. Let's move!

-How long has he been down?

-Ten minutes.

-You need to...

-Intubate. I know. Stop a sec.

OK, re-start compressions. Stand by with fluids and a resus trolley. Go!

-It may be too late.

-I'm not giving up yet!

You wee dancer!

-Mr Maconie.

-Professor Hope.

Just arriving?

No, no. I was in early.

Just popped out for a wee macchiato.

Oh, right, only the theatre lists don't seem to be available.

No? I posted them.

And you don't seem to be wearing scrubs.

Ah, no, er, I haven't had a chance to, er.

Have you seen Ms Effanga today?

Ms Effanga? Now, erm...

She was here earlier but she popped out too.

For a macchiato?

No, to check in on a patient.

I see. Which patient?

You know... I'm not sure I remember.

Ms Effanga?

Professor Hope?

I'll see you both in my office in ten minutes.

In scrubs, please.

Mr Griffin?

Time of death, 08.15.

Oh, my God... You're Mr Griffin?

I can't believe I just spoke to you like that.

You have to be forthright in these situations.

No, I am so, so sorry.

Don't apologise.

You're the reason I wanted to come here.

When I worked under Professor Wong in Sydney,

he said I should do anything to try and get to work with you.

I did a shift on Keller the other week

and was really sorry you were away.

Lilah...

I asked you half an hour ago to deal with Mr Wilson's enema.

Come on, get to it. Ric, find me later? We need to talk.

You're not a registrar?

No, CT1.

'Hey, Annalese,'

I just wanted to make sure the kids got on the flight all right.

Wait, what do you mean, a problem?

A delay?

Hang on.

Yeah, I'll be there.

Annalese, I'm going to call you back in a couple of minutes, all right, so just...

The last word, every time... Yeah, what is it?

Brian Wellers, he's 25, he fell off a ladder at work.

Was pushed off, you mean... Is that a spray tan?

Got a few minor cuts and bruises, he says he may have hit his head.

Cos you look orange.

His GCS is 14 to 15.

It's not fooling anyone, you know.

Imminent further trauma if he's not careful.

All right, let's observe him for 24 hours, neuro obs,

monitor his GCS and clean up those cuts.

A hospital-wide financial review of all non-essential procedures, effective immediately.

In addition, all senior consultants are invited to

apply for the post of acting CEO, interviews today.

Do you think you'll go for it?

No, I've never been what you might call management type,

and Mr Spence is hardly suitable, given his recent history.

So, unless Mr Griffin wants to give it a go.

We're stuck with the current incumbent.

Exactly, who is no advocate of clinical trials.

Which is why it's even more important that today's

Hertzig goes swimmingly.

Don't worry. I'm on it.

I'm certain that you will both show true professionalism.

If I can just explain about earlier.

No need. I know I can rely on you.

Besides, the patient has asked after you both specifically,

so I know you won't want to let her down.

Absolutely.

OK, right, I'm going to go and prepare the Hertzig.

Ms Effanga, perhaps a large black coffee? And Mr Maconie.

An extra large?

I think so, don't you?

-Excuse me...do you work here?

-Yes, I do.

My daughter's been here since six o'clock this morning

and, apart from the nurses, no-one has seen her yet.

-Right, well, I've only just arrived. If I could just have a few moments...

-No, no. She's in pain.

I want you to help her. Please.

Yes, of course.

Good morning, I'm Mr Griffin.

I'm Lauren. And this grumpy old cow is my mum, Lois.

I'm allowed to be grumpy. I'm worried about you.

-No excuse for being a grumpy old cow, though.

-Stop it. This is serious.

She's on dialysis. PKD. Ten years.

Long time. You're on the transplant waiting list?

For all the good it's done us...

We've actually been here before for the repair on

Lauren's last fistula, and now...

I think it's failing again.

Your notes say you've had several.

Two in each arm, one in each leg.

All of them failed.

You've tried peritoneal dialysis?

And got peritonitis, yeah. As you know, kidney failure is dead sexy.

We don't want to go through that again. Perhaps another repair?

I'd like to run some tests first to see what else is going on here

and then we'll get you on dialysis as soon as possible.

-You're fluid overloaded.

-Tell me something I don't know!

I'll be back to check on you later.

Er, excuse me, Mr?

Griffin.

I'm sorry if I was rude. And pushy. Before. Lauren's right.

I can be a grumpy cow sometimes.

There's really no need to.

I just...want her to be well.

I don't know which one of us is more tired...

her or me. You understand?

Of course.

'..available to take your call. At the tone...'

Yes, can I help you?

That guy...bed eight.

-I think you should take another look at him.

-Mr Wellers. Why?

Something not right about him.

-Can you be more specific?

-Not really...just a feeling.

How's it going, Brian?

Well, I'm stuck in hospital with a Yank and a tanorexic.

-How d'you think it's going?

-Can you follow my finger?

-Why? Where's it going?

-See, he's lucid, stable.

Ten-four, good buddy!

And obnoxious. I think he's in rude health.

RETCHING

Get that, will you?

I'm working with UKT on harvesting the John Doe's organs,

can't someone else deal with it?

Yeah, they could, but I asked you.

How can you tell he isn't...

-What's your name?

-Ramona.

I'm Michael Spence, I'm the clinical lead here, and you are?

I'm the new HCA for AAU. My first day. Nice to meet you.

Now, I appreciate your concern for my patient,

but I think I got it.

Just because you're a clinical lead, doesn't mean you can be a jerk.

You believe that?

Shocking. Absolutely.

She's...very shocked too.

GIGGLING

Organise a scan for Mr Wellers... someone's got a "feeling".

So, good night last night?

Yeah. You?

Yeah, from what I can remember.

-Oh, mine was definitely memorable.

-Oh, I know.

-How?

-Cos that was last night's dress you were wearing.

So, the question is, did he jump?

No, the question is... was he pushed?

Maybe by one of the people up for his job today.

The same blooming record.

Well, don't you think it's weird?

He's on leave. End of story. Now, come on...

it's a new dawn, it's a new day.

-And you're feeling good?

-Always!

-Yeah, cos you look like.

-Hey, hey, hey - it costs a lot of money to look this bad.

Yeah, well...it wasn't wasted.

So...you didn't go home last night?

Did I have a good time last night? You betcha.

Am I going to tell you about it? Not on your nelly.

I was just...

Like Elliot said. Professionalism. Let's stick to that, shall we?

Ah, Mr Griffin! Welcome back!

Is there some reason why I can't access the system today, or...

Oh, the passwords have been changed. Ms Campbell thought...

They've been changed? And where is Ms Campbell?

I don't see her name on the board.

-Has nobody told you?

-Told me what?

-Half hourly obs on Mrs Stephens, Chantelle...

Ah, Mr Griffin! Good holiday?

It's rapidly becoming a distant memory.

He doesn't know yet.

Don't you ever check your e-mails?

I've been...on holiday. Look, what is going on?

What is it that I don't know?

Hanssen's on a leave of absence. As of last week.

At least that's what we've been told.

He hasn't resigned? Has he?

Nobody knows. One day he was here, and the next, he was...gone.

Look, I really haven't got time for 20 questions.

Just give me a straight answer. Who is running Holby City?

CHUCKLING

No, no, I absolutely agree, yeah...

(I'm on with the chairman.)

Have a seat.

Mm-hm.

SHE CHUCKLES

Lexy, Lexy...

we give you a perfectly good heart, and what do you do with it?

I know. It's all the intravenous drugs and wild sex.

Sex is good for the heart.

Not hanging from a chandelier.

CHUCKLING

This is so embarrassing. Chronic rejection.

Ah, it could happen to anyone. It's not personal.

My body is destroying the donor heart that's keeping me alive.

I'd say that was pretty personal.

Well, thanks to the wonders of modern medicine,

you are now about to become Robo-vicar.

That a technical term?

Not exactly.

And, as if that wasn't enough,

you now have the pleasure of our company.

If you weren't feeling bad already!

I am so glad you two are still here.

It makes this so much easier for me.

Can we get full bloods, an echo and an ECG, please?

Right, Lexy, I'll let Jonny get you settled in

and then I'll be back to get you consented.

So, stuck with us again, eh?

Oh, I don't mind. You make me laugh.

And you seem to grab life by the scruff of the neck.

It's an example I've been trying to emulate recently.

Hence the drugs and chandeliers, eh?

Not quite. But I have been letting my hair down a bit.

Oh, yes? Mr Right?

Or Mr Right Now?

There is a certain someone.

Oh, that's great.

Well, let's get you fit and back to them, eh?

Well, I take it congratulations are in order.

For the moment, I'm acting CEO. Nothing more.

And did you speak to Henrik before he...

Not a whisper. Inscrutable to the last.

-Will he be coming back?

-No-one knows.

So we keep calm and carry on.

-It's business as usual.

-Apart from all the access passwords being changed.

System upgrades. Planned for months. Nothing to do with me, I assure you.

So...you have no plans to intervene with ward policy?

Ward autonomy is sacrosanct.

-Sacrosanct. I shall quote you on that.

-Please do.

However, it is a testing time for Holby so I would appreciate it if you keep a tight grip on budgets

-and avoid any non-essential procedures.

-Understood.

And you?

-Me?

-What are your plans, personally?

Did you not get the e-mail?

I've only just got back, I haven't caught up.

Right.

Well, certain senior consultants have been invited to

interview for the post of acting CEO.

Since the position's only temporary, but the situation critical,

they have bypassed formal application procedures

and interviews are scheduled for this afternoon.

Yours is at...let me see...

..four o'clock.

That's if you want the job?

I can't do lunch. I've got spinning class.

Rather you than me.

-Yeah, no kidding, fat boy.

-Hey!

-Oh, Michael, Michael, honestly, it's fine.

-No, it's not.

Don't abuse my staff.

How do you mean?

The rude comments?

I can't help it if people haven't got a sense of humour.

You think that's funny? Seriously?

Seriously funny, that's me.

Brian... I'm asking you politely. Just rein it in, OK?

If you say so.

CHUCKLING

-Hey! You're welcome!

-Your friend is still in rude health.

I'm very glad to hear it.

Still got a feeling about him?

I've got a feeling about someone.

Mrs Stephens' B/P's a bit high.

Thanks. I'll check on her.

How do I get a second date?

Whoa, I don't remember our first.

No! Rhys from radiology.

We went out last week and it was lovely but since then, nothing.

-So, why don't you ask him out?

-I'm a girl. Girls don't ask.

21st century, Channers...you can vote, eat cheese and ask guys out.

It's the law.

There didn't used to be a law saying women couldn't eat cheese! Did there?

PHONE RINGS

Hello, Keller?

Hey. How was it?

Fine.

Just keep a handle on the budget and non-essentials,

other than that, ward autonomy is sacrosanct.

Her words.

You're kidding?! Really?!

And you believe her?

She's incredibly busy, out of our hair.

For us, it's business as usual.

Excuse me, Mr Griffin. It's the transplant co-ordinator.

They say they've found a match for Lauren Earnshaw.

-That's wonderful.

-That's not all.

You'll never in a million years guess where it is.

Nice to see Lexy again, eh?

The heart we gave her is failing.

I would hardly call that nice, would you?

-Mo, wait.

-I'm a bit busy, actually.

Just stop, for God's sake!

Yes?

Look, I know I'm not the most perceptive bloke

but something tells me you're still not my biggest fan.

Why would you say that?

Maybe all the wee comments that make me feel

like I just poked a baby in the eye and laughed about it.

-Metaphors like that one don't help.

-Look, I get it. OK?

I really upset you at the bar last week and I'm so sorry about that.

But we are a great team and we need to be able to work together.

We work together just fine.

OK, it's not that.

I...

..I miss my friend.

You big, soft git!

I'm sentimental, sue me.

Can I go now?

You love me, right?

-Don't push it.

-You're not going to tell me where you slept last night?

But I can have his kidney?

It is a perfect match, yes. And in the same hospital.

Miraculous.

-I don't believe it.

-Finally!

I'm sorry. It's... awful about the donor...

-it's just it's been years.

-I started to believe it would never happen.

-We had a few near misses, haven't we?

-You even got tested.

See, I'm not... Lauren isn't... she's not my...

Mrs Earnshaw, there is...

Mum, it's OK. We've got nothing to hide. I'm adopted.

-Mum only told me last year.

-It just never seemed the right time before, what with the PKD and everything.

So, the chances of you being a match was a long shot.

I had to try, though.

Anyway, it doesn't matter now, does it, eh?

Mrs Earnshaw...

Lauren... There is something else that we need to tell you.

When the kidney was harvested,

the team found a small tumour which they removed and tested.

And I'm afraid it was malignant.

The kidney's got cancer?

Not any more, no.

But there is a potential risk that it could come back.

The tumour was very small and hadn't spread to the donor's lymph nodes.

So the risk of it spreading to you is minimal.

So... Should I take it or not?

We can't take that decision for you, I'm afraid.

We can only advise.

But you personally think this kidney is Lauren's best option?

You've been on the transplant waiting list for a decade.

This kidney, in spite of the cancer, is a perfect match.

But only you can make that final decision.

There's been a slight delay.

-I can go home, then?

-I'm afraid not. It's as we suspected...

your echo shows that rejection has damaged the heart function

and your heart is failing.

Break it to me gently, why don't you?

Which means that you're in the right place.

We can take care of you.

So what's the delay?

The Hertzig is a very delicate piece of machinery and...

-You dropped it?

-Not quite, no.

We're waiting for another one to be couriered to us.

And then we need to run some operational tests, so...

I need to twiddle my thumbs for a while, I get it.

I'm sure Mr Maconie will take good care of you.

Oh, aye, we'll play Twister...

and off-the-ground tag.

-Tarts and vicars?

-Steady on, you maniac.

Can I make a request?

Of course.

Could I see it? The Hertzig?

I just want to see what's going to be keeping me alive.

It could be a bit of a shock.

I can cope.

I don't see why not. Mr Maconie, would you?

Sure. We'll play show and tell.

Handle this delicately, please.

Absolutely.

You know, you're a very attractive woman...for your age.

You single?

Honey, you're not my type.

I prefer a man to be more sensitive.

I can be sensitive.

Sensitive like a flower, not like a sledge hammer.

Sugar?

No, ta. I'm...

Sweet enough? That's a very old joke.

Mr Wellers?

Brian, Brian, can you hear me?

Mr Spence? Mr Spence, it's Mr Wellers.

Later.

No, now!

So, can I go home yet, doc?

He seemed to fall asleep and I shook him and nothing.

Unresponsive to stimulus.

I'll respond to any stimulus you like, darling.

Brian, we've talked about this.

-Oh, that was funny.

-No, it wasn't.

Now answer me straight.

Have you had any headaches, nausea, dizziness?

-I'm fine. Seriously.

-I'm not making it up.

Ramona.

I've booked Mr Wellers in for a CT,

but they're a little backed up right now.

Now, for the record, there's no symptoms that he's showing

that are causing me any concerns.

So, why don't you just let us do our job, and you can do yours?

-How does that sound?

-Patronising.

You see what she did there?

Yeah, Brian, it's the last word. I got it. Thank you.

You just let me know if you're feeling unwell, all right?

-AMERICAN ACCENT:

-Sure will, buckaroo.

Good grief! How exactly does it work?

Well, the human heart is a pump, plain and simple.

There are those who disagree with you on that.

Yes, but I'm a medical man. And besides that, I'm lapsed.

The Hertzig just replicates the heart's functions.

It pumps oxygenated blood around the body, keeping you alive.

And these?

Well, this is the controller and this is the battery...

and this is the TET, which stands for transcutaneous energy transfer.

It allows us to charge the Hertzig

from outside of the body.

Can't be opening you up every five minutes, can we?

You mean all of this... will be inside me?

Everything you see here, yeah. But you won't even know it's there.

Are you OK, Lexy?

Yeah.

Lauren Earnshaw's bloods... it's not looking good.

Hyperkalemia, am I right?

And the rest. Elevated B/P, evidence of bone disease.

And she's already struggling with dialysis access.

That still doesn't mean she should take the kidney.

That is her decision. Not ours.

But, Mum, what if it comes back? I mean, it's cancer.

They've already explained that. If it comes back...

We remove the kidney immediately.

But let me reiterate, the chances of recurrence are minimal.

I don't know what to do.

Take it, love. It's the best chance you've had in years.

Until I get cancer.

-You won't.

-You don't know that!

Can't I just keep on having dialysis until another kidney comes along?

Um...

If this fistula fails, then dialysis access will become very difficult.

Combining that with bone damage and...

And I know it's a stupid question, what happens if I stop dialysis?

-You will deteriorate rapidly.

-And die.

Yes.

Look, I'm afraid we have to move quickly.

If you're not going to take the kidney,

-we only have limited of time to get it to someone else.

-I know that.

Well, there's nothing left to talk about. You take the kidney.

Don't you?

She's going to take it.

Mum, wait.

Lauren, please!

No, no, there's another option.

There is?

My birth family.

Mo, I need to talk to you about...

What you doing here?

I know, I know. I'm sorry, I'm sorry.

You left your...

Albie! To what do we owe the pleasure, mate?

Is this not the bar?!

-You know you're not meant to drink your own stuff?

-That's why I never make any money!

-Did you want something, Jonny?

-Oh, no, it'll keep.

Sorry not to see you last night.

Yeah, yeah, where were you?

I was at one of your rivals, actually.

Right, you're barred!

So...what are you doing here?

Do you want to give us a...

Of course. I'll probably see you later on tonight, Albie.

You'd better!

I brought this, you left it.

They could be a match.

It doesn't mean they'll give you a kidney.

-Love...

-They might willing to help me.

-You don't know that!

-And you don't know they won't!

Have you ever tried to contact them before?

No. And I haven't wanted to.

This isn't about you, OK? I'm not angry you didn't tell me before, you know that.

You're my mum, and you always will be and you do the best for me,

-but I just...

-Lauren, please, don't.

-Can't you see that it's a chance?

Darling. Have you thought about...

..what if they say no?

I'll be no worse off than I am now.

I'm sorry, but I can't delay this decision much longer.

Lauren, I think you should listen to your mother.

But...it is your choice.

What about me? She is MY daughter.

She's 18. She has the right of consent.

And it's my life, isn't it?

If this is what YOU want.

It is.

Lauren, you can't do this.

I can, Mum, and I'm sorry.

I really don't want to upset you.

But I've made up my mind.

I don't want the kidney. Thank you.

Very well. I'll make the arrangements.

-I can't believe you agree with her.

-I respect her right to make her own decisions.

-The kidney's a risk, no matter how small.

-Mr Griffin... call from Lilah in AAU.

She said the kidney's being perfused and would you like to check it?

Thank you, Chantelle, I'll call.

Mr Griffin!

-Mrs Earnshaw, I really am pressed for time.

-I need to speak to you. Privately. Please.

Yes, of course.

Look, I understand how painful it is, but she's 18, and...

No, no, no, you don't understand.

You have to tell her to take the kidney.

If she's made her decision...

She can't contact her birth family. Ever.

Dozy cow...left my ID in the bar.

Uh-huh.

-Did you want me for something?

-No, it's fine.

Lexy's good to go, though, yeah?

She's consented, if that's what you mean.

You don't think she wants to go through with it?

No, she'll do it.

Just quietly freaking out, that's all.

Genius at denial. Something you'd know all about.

-What's your problem?

-I don't have a problem, what makes you think I have a problem?

I left my ID.

In the bar, yes, you said.

Look, what I do in my private life...

Spare me, OK? You want to sleep with a married man?

You go right ahead.

But take my word for it, it'll all go pear-shaped in the end...

just like last time.

You're bang out of order.

You're right. I am out of order. I'm going to shut up now.

Professionalism, right? Like Elliot said?

Right.

When this goes tits up, I will not be there to pick up the pieces.

That's extraordinary.

Well, let's hope the perfusion can keep it alive for a few more hours.

The recipient hasn't consented?

Not yet. Thanks.

She may still agree, but there's a family issue to be sorted out.

If she does, could I observe the procedure?

I know, pushy. I know.

Look, you've done a brilliant job liaising with the family

and the transplant team, but I can't.

It's fine. I understand.

-I'll let you know how it goes.

-OK.

BEEPING

Damn it.

Problem?

Just trying to get in touch with the kids...unsuccessfully.

-I presume you wanted to talk about...

-Yeah.

The current acting CEO.

I'm not throwing my hat in the ring.

What? Well, me neither.

I got everything I want, right here. I've got to get back to this.

-Yeah, tough, not seeing them.

-Yeah.

Still, they'll be home for Christmas, yeah?

What, Christmas?

Annalese didn't tell you?

I assumed you knew.

Michael, I'm sorry, I've got to go.

Well? Is it OK?

Yes, the kidney's still viable but she has to consent now or...

You could persuade her. If you told her it was the right thing to do...

No, I can't do that.

Look, if you want to change her mind then you have to tell her what you've told me.

-She has to know the truth.

-(I can't.)

Then she's going to lose this chance.

OK, so I've been looking up adoption law and it says I can be put on a contact register...

Look, Lauren.

-I'm sorry it's upsetting you, Mum, but...

-Just listen to me.

No, cos you're only going to try to talk me out of it.

This is my chance. They could save me.

-There's no guarantee they'll be a match or they'll agree to...

-No, I know that,

but it's the logical thing to do, isn't it? I mean, I can't believe you didn't think of it before.

I did.

As soon as you were diagnosed...

I went to the adoption agency and asked to be put in contact with your birth family.

I thought they might want to help or something.

And?

They've got what's called an absolute veto.

You can't contact them under any circumstances.

-But if they knew that I was ill...

-No. I'm sorry, love, but...

-If they knew that I was dying...

-It won't make any difference to them.

They don't want anything to do with you, no matter what.

That's why I only told you you were adopted last year.

I wanted...

I wanted to protect you.

-I know I should've...

-You should have.

Lauren, I'm sorry to have to push this

but we only just have enough time.

Now, I still think this kidney is your best option.

Would you like to accept it?

Yes.

Good. I'll start preparations.

You did the right thing.

She's going ahead with the transplant. Are you going to assist?

Of course but...what changed her mind? She was so sure.

She ran out of options. Right, you get her consented and prepped for theatre.

THEY CHUCKLE TOGETHER

What's going on over here? What's so funny?

I was just telling Ramona how Tracy's holding the ladder,

I says to her, "You have to lose some chub if you want to pull me,"

and the next thing I know, I'm on the floor.

I mean, some people! They just can't take a joke.

No, Brian, you just can't tell one!

All right? So how about we cut the jokes out, all right?

This is a hospital, it's not a comedy club.

I get it. It's just a patient, uh?

And I'm just an HCA, right?

So, you can humiliate us both all you like?

-Look, I'm just try...

-Oh, forget it! I'll go and clean something. That makes you happy?

-Yeah, ecstatic. Thank you.

-You're welcome(!)

Your new heart has arrived.

Somebody's revving it up for us as we speak.

That's good.

-You've just got to sign...here.

-I know.

Lexy...

Just give me a minute. I'll get there.

MOBILE PHONE BUZZES

-Is that Mr Right?

-Yes...

No... I don't know.

He, um... David, he doesn't know about the trial.

It's early days for us, I didn't want to scare him.

"By the way, my heart's being replaced with a robotic pump."

-It's not... Not very romantic.

-Fair point.

Lexy...

is there something you need? Something I can do for you?

-Now you mention it...

-It's what I'm here for.

No. I wouldn't want to cause problems for you and Ms Effanga.

Not when things are so tense between you.

-You don't miss a thing, do you?

-It's the job.

If I can help you, I will. Never mind Ms Effanga.

It might get you into trouble.

Trouble happens to be my middle name.

I'll be right here when you wake up, my love.

-Whatever...

-Oh, Lauren, please, you have to understand.

No, I don't have to do anything.

If people don't care if I live or die, I don't see why I should care what anyone says.

Lauren, try to stay calm. This isn't the time.

Everyone's deciding when's the best time for me, aren't they? Trying to protect me.

Look how well that turned out.

Stay or go, I don't care any more.

Just...give her some space. It's a lot to take in.

-She does still need you.

-She's got a right to be angry.

I just...didn't know what else to do.

Promise...you'll bring her back to me.

It's a serious but routine operation. Try not to worry.

-Mr Griffin?

-I'm still scrubbing in.

-A message just down -

-Ms Campbell wants to see you.

-She'll have to wait.

-She knows about the transplant...

and she wants to speak to you right now.

Keep non-essential procedures to a minimum. I did say that, right?

Precisely. Are you now saying that you personally want to authorise them all?

I'm saying that at this exceptionally delicate time when all eyes are upon us,

the last thing we need is to be doing a procedure that may well give a patient cancer.

That's not a given, by any means.

It's highly controversial and potentially dangerous.

Case studies suggest the chances of recurrence are not as high as you would think.

Look, the cancer had not spread in the donor,

the transplant team removed the tumour clean. It's a perfect match!

None of which removes the threat of recurrence.

Lauren is fully aware and has consented.

"First do no harm". Remember that part of the training?

The part that I remember is about putting patients first.

I wasn't suggesting that you...

Listen, this procedure is Lauren's best option, it's her ONLY option.

And it's precisely the kind of medicine that Holby should be doing, now or at any time!

The patient is prepped, the kidney is still viable,

-I'm proceeding as planned.

-On your own head.

As always.

-What the hell are you doing?

-Cleaning, like you asked me to.

Er, I didn't say in here.

This place, it's a pigsty!

-I bet you are single, huh?

-All right, that's it!

You know what, go anywhere else and do anything else!

I certainly do not need relationship advice from you.

Well, you need it from someone.

Cos the way you act, you're going to be so lonely.

Get out of here. Now get the last word in!

Imbecil arrogante!

So, how are things going with Ramona?

Awesome. We're like the Borgias on crack.

Don't you think you should take it easy on her?

I think she should take it easy on me. Annalese, it's Michael.

Now, you're avoiding me and we both know why.

We agreed that these kids were coming THIS week,

not over Christmas, so you better call me back

or I promise you I will get on the next flight out there.

Women.

-Where the hell is that...?

-Problem?

-Ramona!

-Michael, just...

-Can I help you?

-Yeah, I think you can.

-When you were cleaning the office, did you...

-Sacha, I got this.

-Diplomacy is the best option here.

-Where's my bookmark?

-What?

-Nicely done.

Solid silver, it was on my desk.

You come in, cleany-cleany, now it's gone!

-Oh, light-fingered Latino, is it?

-That's racist.

-I'm just calling it how it is!

Brian! That's enough!

Look, it was there before you cleaned and now it is gone. Just give it to me!

I didn't take your stupid bookmark!

He's NOT OK!

And you have a bad attitude!

-We'll proceed as planned.

-She didn't approve, right?

Whether she approves or not is irrelevant.

Ward autonomy is sacrosanct, remember?

OK, apologies for the delay.

Our acting CEO wanted me to talk her through the procedure.

Right, Lauren, we're going to take you in now, if you're ready?

-I am.

-I love you, Lauren.

You think it's the best move politically, right now?

We don't play politics with our patients' lives, ever.

We do what's right for them. That's where it begins and ends.

Ric?

Ric. Sorry.

OK, if you take Lauren through to anaesthetics, I'll be right there.

-You're going up for Acting CEO, aren't you?

-I wasn't planning to.

-Well, I'm not, Michael isn't. If you don't, who's going to oppose her?

-Elliot, I'm due in theatre.

In the first few days she's been in the post,

Ms Campbell has already begun to interfere

with non-essential procedures, clinical trials, ward budgets,

now I understand she's looking at cutting clinical skills funding...

-Mr Griffin?

-..which could directly affect Mr Malick's position...

and the rest of us.

Ric, a Holby under her control is not something anyone wants.

Agreed, but, Elliot, I don't want the job.

Thank you so much for doing this for me.

It's perfectly understandable yous want to check in with the boss before taking the plunge.

-I'm not sure he's going to have a lot to say to me.

-Does he ever?

Can I go in alone?

Now, Lexy, you shouldn't even be out of bed, let alone...

(Just a few minutes.)

OK...but I'll be right outside if you need me.

Thank you.

-LEXY:

-I don't know what I'm doing!

Force of habit, I suppose...

I give my entire life to you and this is what you do to me!

Lexy, are you OK in there?

LOUD THUD

Can we get some help here, please?

-She collapsed.

-OK, let's get her to HDU, now.

-Where's Mo?

-I haven't seen her for ages.

Let's get her fixed to the monitors, quickly. Angela? She's tachycardic. What's going on with her?

-Chronic rejection of a donor heart.

-She'll need a dopamine IV, now.

-Right, she's Mo's patient, we need her here. Page Ms Effanga now.

-(OK.)

She's probably hypotensive. Let's get her on the bed.

Ready, one, two...

OK...

Let's start suturing...

the renal artery.

-Ms Campbell?

-Thank you.

Problem?

No.

Four-0 Prolene, please.

Mr Hanssen's sudden departure

has thrown the future of this hospital into flux.

But I have what I believe is a compelling solution...

-Me.

-THEY LAUGH

So if you'd just turn to the first page in the document in front of you. Thank you.

OK...the renal artery looks secure.

Let's remove the venal clamp.

Good flow.

Under Mr Hanssen, Holby led the way in ground-breaking procedures

which garnered huge amounts of publicity.

And that's fine when things are going your way.

When they're not, you go over budget

and become the focus of too many headlines.

Hospitals should never become THE story.

That's how they get closed down.

And now the arterial...

Looks fine. Now the ureter, yes?

Mr Griffin? Now, we suture the ureter into place and close up, right?

This is a time for Holby to play it safe,

to look to the future and ensure its long-term survival.

I believe I've demonstrated that I am the right person to make that...

..a reality.

-Thank you very much.

-You're very welcome.

Mr Griffin.

-Ms Campbell.

-Change your mind?

-Evidently.

-Well...

-..best of luck.

-Thank you.

OK, Lexy, just try and breath normally.

Yep, that's it.

OK, good.

She's stable but her heart's failing. We need to bring the procedure forward. What happened?

-She crashed.

-I was asking Nurse Maconie, thanks.

I took her to the prayer room.

-You removed her from HDU?!

-She asked me to.

-Why would you risk something stupid like that?

She was freaking out, like I told you earlier, not that you listened.

She asked me to take her so I took her. It's what she wanted.

-She could've died!

-Where were you?!

-That's none of your business!

Focused on the job, professional at all times(!)

-You paged me. How is she?

-Not good. Heart failure.

-What happened?

She asked me to take her to the prayer room,

she seemed fine...so I agreed. She crashed there.

It's not his fault. I asked him to.

Try not to talk, Lexy. OK, let's get her to theatre. Now, please.

Will you take my phone?

If God calls...

-Tell him you're busy?

-Right, we'll get her onto bypass...

-Sure.

..which will allow you to perform the explantation of the heart.

Then you can fit the Hertzig into the cavity. Gotcha.

Holby has a well-deserved reputation

as a centre of excellence and innovation,

and the reasons for that are many.

We never rule out non-essential procedures

just cos they look bad on a balance sheet.

We never take the easy option when it's the wrong one for the patient.

RIC'S BLEEPER SOUNDS

Apologies.

Erm, we let our clinicians do their job

without interference.

And we put the patient first,

-no matter what...

-BLEEPER SOUNDS AGAIN

Sorry, I really should...look at this.

Mr Griffin?

I'm sorry... you'll have to excuse me.

BLEEPER CONTINUES

Mr Griffin?

I'm sorry, I can't talk now.

-What's going on?!

-I'm sorry.

I mean, come on. Me, patronising?!

It'd be hilarious if it wasn't so ridiculous!

Surprised Mr Motormouth over here hasn't been cracking jokes about it for the last hour.

Brian!

Brian, open your eyes.

-No response. Brian, can you hear me?

-Slight flexion to pain.

-Brian?

-GCS has dropped through the floor.

-Michael...

-Battle sign - that wasn't there before.

-Has he had his CT?

-I didn't push for it cos it wasn't a priority.

Well, it is now. Page neuro, tell them we need an emergency CT.

-What happened?

-Everything was fine.

Ureter and closing went well, I was about to take her through to recovery,

then her BP fell through the floor and her pulse went through the roof.

There must be a bleed. Right, let's get her...open again.

Can't see a thing. Suction.

-There's a bleed in the vein and in the artery.

-I thought it was my work on the ureter or...

No, it wasn't your fault. I should've been here. I'll take the artery, you the vein, quickly.

Look at the fibrosis.

I'm surprised this was even generating a cardiac output.

Right, let's stitch the aorta and pulmonary artery.

Three-0 Prolene, please. Thank you.

And the Hertzig, please.

-Is she OK?

-It's fine. It's fine now.

She's, erm... She's OK.

What happened?

Er, well, she had a bleed, er, on the table. It was nothing to do with the kidney, which is fine.

It was quite serious but, erm... we got it under control.

But you...you left her in there.

Well, Mr Malick is perfectly capable. It wasn't his fault.

I don't care about him. Where did YOU go?

I had to...

There was, um...a meeting.

A meeting?! My daughter's life was in your hands and...

you went to a meeting?!

-I wouldn't have left her if I'd thought that...

-But I trusted you!

All day long you've been assuring me you'll take good care of her

and then you go to a meeting and she nearly dies!

I'm sorry.

(So you should be!)

Estupida!

Estupida! Soy estupida!

I didn't take your damn bookmark!

-Well, somebody did.

-Well, not me.

You are a bully!

You call me a thief and you are patronising.

-Hey, I am NOT patronising!

-No. Yeah, right(!)

I don't even know what I'm looking for here.

It's a silver bookmark, it's about this long,

it's got some photos on it,

some engraving...

Something like this?

"Dear Daddy, we miss you."

Yeah, they're...in Florida with their mother.

Been there for six months.

That's hard.

And they were supposed to come back here this week

but I just found out today they won't be back till Christmas so...

..that's why I haven't been my usual charming self.

M-Michael?

-Yours?

-Mm-hm.

-Very sweet.

I'm...sorry about the water.

I have a temper, I know that.

And I really don't want to screw up like that on my first day,

-so, please, if you could forgive...

-Ramona...

Mr Wellers has a fractured skull and an extradural haematoma and is in surgery right now,

so...my feeling is that you don't have to apologise to me.

Not today.

So...

..what can I do make it up to you?

Is Mo about?

HE CLEARS HIS THROAT She's in theatre.

Right, of course. Will she be long?

There's no way of knowing. It's a complicated procedure. She may be...

A while. Gotcha.

Any message?

-No, no. I've got her number, thanks.

-Course you have.

HE LAUGHS

Look...

mate, is there...

some kind of problem?

I don't know.

Is there?

Yes. I'm married. So?

-It's not a problem though, eh?

-It's not a problem for you, is it?

Oh, not for me, no, but it might be for your wife.

My wife, my relationship with her, me and Mo, all of it is none of your damn business.

She's my friend...and I don't want to see her get hurt.

I think she's already been hurt enough, don't you?

You will effectively remain an out-patient for the rest of your life.

We'll need to check on the kidney function and immunosuppressant drugs

and of course make sure there's no recurrence of the cancer.

What I'm saying is that...you're going to need a lot of support.

And she'll get it.

Lauren, please...

-I'll be here for you even if you hate me.

-I don't hate you.

I'm just so angry at you.

I did what I thought was best.

-I'm so...

-Sorry. Yeah, I know.

You can't lie to protect me cos it doesn't work.

You know that, don't you?

The adoption agency told me.

They said, "Make sure you tell her as soon as she's able to understand.

"That way, it's always part of her life."

But...the sicker you got, the harder it got to tell you.

Lauren, I'm...so, SO sorry.

I'll check in on you tomorrow.

Mr Griffin.

Thank you. You did a good job.

You did a good job.

The procedure went fine. The Hertzig is functioning very well.

That's good news. But, Professor Hope....

..I think I let my heart overrule...my head today,

-and I made a decision that...

-Yes, well...

we've all done that in our time.

Just make sure it doesn't happen again.

-It won't.

-I hope not.

Because if you and Ms Effanga can't function as a team... that would be a problem.

(OK?)

OK.

I was in that room...

banging on about patient care...

and all the time my patient needed me.

But you were able to save her.

Oh, yeah.

Hi, Julia, a couple of coffees, please.

So you decided to stand against Ms Campbell, after all?

What else could I do?

I haven't even got the job and already I'm compromising patient care.

I don't understand, Ric. Do you want it or don't you?

I can feel it working.

It's so strange, like a creature inside me.

-Glad you went ahead, then?

-Silly question.

I'm so sorry if I caused you any trouble today.

I'm Jonny "Trouble" Maconie, remember?

I always thought a crisis of faith was something that happened to other people.

I certainly didn't expect it to happen to me quite so dramatically.

How do you feel now?

About the man upstairs?

He's definitely got a sense of humour.

I always make the same mistake -

thinking if I try really hard, I can control everything.

And then I remember...

..that's what faith really is.

Letting go of the illusion of control.

Enjoying the ride

for as long as it lasts.

That sounds like good advice.

It is. If only I could take it!

-Oh, erm...your phone.

-Thank you.

-I tried calling God but he was engaged.

-Oh, isn't he always?

Just for the record...

if I was your...Mr Right,

I'd want to be by your side for every moment,

no matter what. You shouldn't have to go through this alone.

Call him.

David. Hi, it's me...

COMPUTER BEEPS

Malick.

How's Lauren?

-She's fine. She's doing well.

-And the chances of a recurrence?

-As good as anyone's. Listen, I just wanted...

-It's OK.

You did what you thought was right and it all worked out in the end.

It's what makes you a good teacher.

When you hit the wall, you hit it at full speed.

-Lilah.

-Oh, Mr Griffin.

Hi, I just wanted to let you know that the transplant was a success.

And to thank you again for all your help today.

Couldn't have done it without you.

It was my pleasure.

Lilah?

-How does Monday sound to you?

-Monday?

To start working with me on Keller.

Monday sounds...great.

Good. I'll see you then.

OK.

-Nice dress.

-Thanks.

I'm really sorry, Mo... for everything.

Thank you.

But I... I just can't stand aside

and watch you make the same mistakes over and over again.

-Hang on, what did you say to me last week in the bar?

-I can't...

I don't stick my nose in your private life. Remember?

-Yeah, but...

-Why don't you do that, then?

I'll be fine.

And if I'm not, I won't need you to pick up the pieces, OK?

How do you...

Ready?

Mm-hm.

You, er, fancy a drink, mate?

Ah...

I would but...I'm getting too old for two nights on the trot.

Fair enough.

-See you tomorrow?

-Yeah.

-Chantelle.

-Ah!

You look nice.

Thanks. I'm here with someone.

Actually, it's a date, a second date, and I asked him. I can't believe it.

You're a modern young woman.

That's right! I can eat as much cheese as I like. See you tomorrow.

Can I get you another?

Erm, actually, I was just off.

Don't give me that.

After today it's a night for a lock-in.

Letting us make fools of ourselves like that, I'm spitting feathers.

Come on! I don't offer lightly.

Just a small one for me, thank you.

Usual, please.

An external acting CEO. I mean, really!

-Have you got any idea who they appointed?

-None whatsoever.

Talk about "may you live in interesting times".

Thank you.

What shall we drink to?

To Henrik, wherever he is...

-I bet he's laughing.

-To Henrik.

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