Arizona Robbins, a beloved character on Grey’s Anatomy, faces a life-altering event after a devastating plane crash. Her leg is tragically amputated in Season 9, Episode 2, “Remember the Time.”
The Horrific Aftermath: Understanding the Plane Crash and its Repercussions
The plane crash episode, which concludes Season 8, leaves several of our favorite doctors stranded and critically injured. Arizona, Mark Sloan, Derek Shepherd, Meredith Grey, Cristina Yang, and Lexie Grey are all aboard, heading to Boise to assist with a surgery at a sister hospital. However, fate takes a cruel turn when their small plane crashes in the dense wilderness.
The crash and the subsequent struggle for survival take a heavy toll on everyone involved. Lexie Grey tragically dies, and Mark Sloan succumbs to his injuries later in Season 9. Arizona suffers severe injuries to her leg, which ultimately lead to the difficult decision of amputation.
“Remember the Time”: The Episode Where Everything Changes
“Remember the Time” is a deeply emotional episode that navigates the immediate aftermath of the crash, focusing on the rescue efforts and the survivors’ fight to recover. The episode utilizes flashbacks to juxtapose the horrific present with happier memories from the past, creating a stark contrast and emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
The excruciating decision to amputate Arizona’s leg is a pivotal moment, driven by the threat of a severe infection that could claim her life. Dr. Callie Torres, Arizona’s wife, makes the agonizing choice, authorizing the amputation to save Arizona.
The Impact of Arizona’s Amputation on Her Character
Arizona’s amputation fundamentally changes her character arc. Initially, she struggles with immense physical and emotional pain, battling feelings of anger, resentment, and grief. Her relationship with Callie is severely tested, as the trauma and resentment strain their bond.
However, Arizona demonstrates incredible resilience and strength as she navigates her new reality. She learns to walk again with a prosthetic leg, reclaims her professional identity as a pediatric surgeon, and eventually finds peace and acceptance. Her journey is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Arizona Robbins’ Amputation
This section answers common questions about Arizona’s leg amputation, providing more context and insight into this significant storyline.
H3: Why was Arizona’s leg amputated?
Arizona’s leg was amputated due to a severe infection that developed following the plane crash. Despite efforts to save the leg, the infection continued to spread, posing a life-threatening risk. The amputation was deemed necessary to prevent the infection from becoming fatal.
H3: Who made the decision to amputate Arizona’s leg?
Dr. Callie Torres, Arizona’s wife at the time, ultimately made the decision to authorize the amputation. Although Arizona was initially against it, Callie recognized the urgency of the situation and made the difficult choice to save her life.
H3: How did Arizona react to losing her leg?
Arizona initially reacted with anger, denial, and deep depression. She struggled to accept her new reality and blamed Callie for making the decision without her consent. Her emotional turmoil strained their relationship significantly.
H3: How did Arizona learn to walk again?
Arizona underwent extensive physical therapy to learn to walk again with a prosthetic leg. The process was challenging and frustrating, but with determination and support, she gradually regained her mobility and independence.
H3: What type of prosthetic leg does Arizona use?
Arizona uses a high-tech prosthetic leg that allows her to walk, run, and even dance. The specific type of prosthetic is not explicitly detailed in the show, but it’s portrayed as a sophisticated device that aids in her rehabilitation.
H3: How did the amputation affect Arizona’s relationship with Callie?
The amputation significantly impacted Arizona and Callie’s relationship. The resentment and anger stemming from the amputation led to significant conflict and eventually contributed to their separation and eventual divorce.
H3: Did Arizona ever blame Callie for her amputation?
Yes, initially, Arizona harbored a lot of resentment towards Callie for making the decision to amputate her leg. She felt that her agency was taken away and struggled to forgive Callie for what she perceived as a betrayal.
H3: Did Arizona continue to work as a pediatric surgeon after the amputation?
Yes, Arizona continued her career as a pediatric surgeon. Despite the physical challenges, she adapted and remained a highly skilled and respected doctor at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. She proves that disability doesn’t define capability.
H3: How did other characters on Grey’s Anatomy react to Arizona’s amputation?
The other characters on the show were supportive of Arizona, although they struggled with their own grief and trauma following the plane crash. They offered her encouragement and assistance throughout her recovery process.
H3: Did the show use a real amputee actor to portray Arizona’s character after the amputation?
No, actress Jessica Capshaw, who played Arizona, is not an amputee. The show employed various techniques, including camera angles and digital effects, to convincingly portray the amputation.
H3: Did the storyline accurately represent the experiences of amputees?
While the storyline is a fictionalized portrayal, the writers of Grey’s Anatomy consulted with medical professionals and amputees to ensure a degree of authenticity in depicting the physical and emotional challenges associated with limb loss. However, it’s important to remember that every individual’s experience with amputation is unique.
H3: How long did Arizona remain on Grey’s Anatomy after her amputation?
Arizona remained on Grey’s Anatomy for several seasons after her amputation, continuing her career as a pediatric surgeon and navigating her personal relationships. She ultimately leaves in Season 14 to move to New York City to be closer to her daughter, Sofia. Her departure marked the end of a significant chapter in the show’s history.