Ep 4. Cora and Arnie

Cora and Arnie is the fourth episode of the first season of St. Elsewhere. This medical drama series was aired on NBC from 1982 to 1988. The show follows the life of doctors, nurses, and people working at St. Eligius Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts.

In this episode, the focus is on two patients who share a special bond. Cora (played by Alfre Woodard) is a young African American girl with renal failure. She is in dire need of a kidney transplant and has been on the waiting list for a long time. Arnie (played by Danny Aiello) is a middle-aged man with heart problems. He is struggling with his personal demons and is on the verge of giving up on life.

The story begins with the doctors trying to find a suitable donor for Cora's kidney transplant. They discuss the various options, including getting a donor from a deceased person or finding a living donor. However, it seems that none of these options are viable, and Cora's condition begins to deteriorate rapidly.

In the meantime, Arnie is admitted to the hospital with chest pains. He is a gruff and stubborn man who initially refuses to cooperate with the doctors' orders. However, when he meets Cora in the hospital hallway, something changes inside him. He is drawn to her and begins to take an interest in her well-being.

As the episode progresses, we see Arnie and Cora's relationship grow stronger. He begins to spend time with her, reading her stories and playing games to keep her spirits up. As they spend more time together, Arnie begins to open up about his past. We learn that he has a troubled relationship with his son and has been struggling with depression for a long time.

Meanwhile, the doctors continue to search for a donor for Cora's transplant. They eventually find a match in her father, who is a reluctant donor but agrees to undergo the surgery.

The episode ends with a touching scene between Arnie and Cora. As they say goodbye to each other, it's clear that they have both been profoundly affected by their brief time together. Cora is finally getting the transplant she needs, and Arnie is rediscovering his sense of purpose.

Overall, Cora and Arnie is a heartwarming episode that highlights the importance of human connection in the face of adversity. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the story is both touching and poignant. Through their interactions, we are reminded that even in the darkest of times, kindness, empathy, and compassion can make all the difference.