Season 5, Episode 22 of Grey’s Anatomy, titled “What a Difference a Day Makes,” sees Izzie Stevens bravely facing her brain tumor and subsequent surgery, while Owen Hunt struggles with PTSD, impacting his relationship with Cristina Yang. This pivotal episode marks a turning point for several characters, setting the stage for the dramatic season finale.
Izzie’s Battle: Hope and Despair
The core of “What a Difference a Day Makes” revolves around Izzie Stevens’s ordeal. After discovering a rapidly progressing brain tumor, she’s now facing the daunting prospect of surgery. We witness her grappling with fear, hope, and the overwhelming uncertainty of her future.
The Surgery: A Risky Gamble
Izzie, with Meredith by her side as a support system, makes the difficult decision to undergo surgery. The risks are immense – damage to speech, motor skills, and even death. Her courage is palpable as she prepares for the procedure, leaving behind tapes for her loved ones, uncertain if she’ll ever see them again. The scenes depicting the surgery are taut with tension, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. The outcome remains ambiguous throughout the episode, heightening the emotional stakes.
Denny’s Return: A Haunting Presence
Adding a surreal layer to Izzie’s experience is the recurring apparition of Denny Duquette, her former patient and love interest who tragically died in Season 2. Denny’s presence suggests a near-death experience for Izzie, further fueling the anxiety surrounding her surgery. His conversations with her offer comfort and guidance, but also raise questions about the line between reality and hallucination.
Owen’s Trauma: A Relationship Under Strain
While Izzie fights for her life, Owen Hunt’s PTSD resurfaces, significantly impacting his relationship with Cristina. His nightmares and erratic behavior become increasingly alarming, creating a wedge between him and Cristina.
Night Terrors and Unpredictability
Owen’s trauma manifests in vivid nightmares that startle Cristina and disrupt their sleep. He becomes withdrawn and prone to sudden outbursts, leaving Cristina feeling helpless and confused. The episode highlights the devastating effects of PTSD on both the sufferer and their partner.
Cristina’s Frustration and Fear
Cristina, accustomed to a rational and controlled environment, struggles to understand and cope with Owen’s condition. She feels alienated by his inability to communicate his feelings, leading to arguments and misunderstandings. The episode showcases the challenges of navigating a relationship when one partner is dealing with a severe mental health issue.
George and Izzie: A Complex Connection
George O’Malley, Izzie’s close friend, provides unwavering support throughout her ordeal. His presence is a comforting constant in her life as she copes with the surgery’s uncertainty. While their relationship is primarily platonic, subtle hints suggest a deeper connection, adding emotional depth to their scenes.
Unwavering Support
George dedicates himself to supporting Izzie, offering a listening ear, words of encouragement, and practical assistance. His selfless actions demonstrate the strength of their friendship and his genuine concern for her well-being.
A Moment of Vulnerability
In a poignant moment, Izzie expresses her gratitude to George, acknowledging his unwavering support. This scene highlights the importance of strong friendships during times of crisis and emphasizes the emotional bond between the two characters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What kind of tumor does Izzie have?
Izzie has a malignant melanoma that has metastasized to her brain. This means the original skin cancer has spread to form tumors in her brain, making the situation extremely serious.
Q2: Why does Denny Duquette appear to Izzie?
Denny’s appearance is generally interpreted as a manifestation of Izzie’s subconscious, likely triggered by the stress and fear surrounding her surgery. It suggests a near-death experience or a psychological coping mechanism. He represents comfort, guidance, and unfinished business.
Q3: How does Cristina react to Owen’s PTSD?
Initially, Cristina is baffled and frustrated by Owen’s erratic behavior. She struggles to understand his trauma and finds it difficult to cope with his nightmares and emotional outbursts. However, she eventually tries to learn more about PTSD and becomes more supportive.
Q4: Does Izzie die in this episode?
No, Izzie doesn’t die in this episode. The episode ends with her surgery still underway and the outcome uncertain. Her fate remains a cliffhanger, leaving viewers to speculate about her survival.
Q5: What are the specific symptoms of Owen’s PTSD shown in the episode?
Owen exhibits several classic PTSD symptoms, including nightmares, flashbacks, hyperarousal (easily startled), irritability, emotional withdrawal, and difficulty sleeping. He relives traumatic experiences from his time in the military, affecting his daily life and relationships.
Q6: What is Meredith’s role in this episode?
Meredith serves as Izzie’s primary support system throughout the episode. She accompanies Izzie to appointments, offers emotional support, and acts as a confidante. Meredith’s presence underscores the importance of friendship and loyalty during times of crisis.
Q7: Is there a cure for Izzie’s type of cancer?
Malignant melanoma that has metastasized to the brain is a serious condition with a complex prognosis. While there may not be a complete “cure,” various treatments, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, can help manage the disease and extend the patient’s life. The success of treatment depends on factors like the size and location of the tumors, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Q8: What is the significance of the episode’s title, “What a Difference a Day Makes?”
The title highlights the fragility of life and how quickly circumstances can change. Izzie’s life is turned upside down in a matter of days after discovering her tumor. Owen’s PTSD flares up unexpectedly, disrupting his relationship. The title emphasizes the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
Q9: Does Owen seek professional help for his PTSD in this episode?
No, Owen doesn’t actively seek professional help in this specific episode. However, the events of this episode lead to a turning point where he begins to recognize the severity of his condition and the need for treatment. This sets the stage for him seeking help in subsequent episodes.
Q10: How does this episode contribute to the overall storyline of Season 5?
“What a Difference a Day Makes” is a crucial episode that drives several storylines forward. It deepens the emotional stakes for Izzie and Owen, highlighting the challenges they face and setting the stage for future developments. It also explores themes of mortality, friendship, and the impact of trauma. It pushes character development forward and prepares the audience for the dramatic season finale.
Q11: Are there any other significant medical cases featured in the episode besides Izzie’s?
While Izzie’s case dominates the episode, there are glimpses of other medical cases that provide a backdrop to the main drama. These cases, though not as prominent, underscore the fast-paced and demanding nature of the hospital environment. They serve as reminders of the constant life-and-death situations faced by the doctors at Seattle Grace.
Q12: What are the key themes explored in “What a Difference a Day Makes?”
The key themes explored in this episode include mortality, the impact of illness on relationships, the importance of friendship and support, the challenges of mental health, and the unpredictable nature of life. These themes resonate throughout the episode, creating a compelling and emotionally charged narrative. They are central to the series’ success in exploring the complexities of human experience.