Ep 6. Taking Lumps

The Big C is a TV drama series that centers on a schoolteacher named Cathy Jamison who was diagnosed with cancer. Throughout the show, she navigates her relationships with her husband, teenage son, and brother as she tries to carve out a new life for herself in light of her diagnosis.

In season 1 episode 6 titled Taking Lumps, Cathy's world is rocked when she experiences more health problems. She's just spent a wonderful weekend with her old friend Lenny, reconnecting and reminiscing about their wild college days. But as the episode opens, Cathy wakes up to find a lump in her breast.

The episode follows Cathy as she grapples with the fear and uncertainty of her latest health scare. She's already been through so much, and the thought of undergoing another round of treatments and surgeries is overwhelming. In a heart-wrenching scene, Cathy breaks down in tears in front of her son Adam, finally letting out all the fear and pain she's been holding in.

Meanwhile, Cathy's relationships with those around her continue to be tested. Her husband Paul is increasingly distant, consumed with his own problems at work. And her brother Sean, while his heart is in the right place, struggles to truly understand what Cathy is going through.

Cathy also faces a difficult decision when it comes to her treatment. Her doctor recommends a mastectomy, but Cathy is hesitant to undergo such a radical procedure. She seeks out a second opinion, meeting with a surgeon who offers a less invasive option. But as she debates her choices, she's also forced to confront her own mortality and what it means for her future.

As always, The Big C tackles these heavy themes with grace and humor. The episode finds moments of levity amidst the darkness, particularly as Cathy reconnects with Lenny and reminisces about their debaucherous college days. And while Cathy's journey is a deeply personal one, the show also speaks to the universal experience of grappling with illness and fear.

Overall, season 1 episode 6 of The Big C is a poignant and powerful entry in the series. It continues to explore the themes that make the show so compelling while also laying the groundwork for Cathy's ongoing battle with cancer. Fans of the show will find plenty to appreciate here, from the stunning performances to the nuanced storytelling.