Ep 4. Marathon Day

In Carol's Second Act season 1 episode 4 titled "Marathon Day," Carol Kenney, a retired teacher, starts her residency at Loyola Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a doctor. The episode revolves around Carol's experience as a resident on Marathon Day, a day where hundreds of people compete in a marathon, and the hospital's emergency department is swamped with patients.

As Carol struggles to keep up with the demands of her job, she finds comfort in bonding with her fellow residents, Dr. Maya Jacobs and Dr. Lexie Gilani, who help her navigate the chaotic environment of the hospital. However, Carol's optimism is challenged when she encounters a patient who is battling cancer, and she realizes the harsh reality of the medical profession.

The episode also explores Carol's personal life as she tries to balance her work and family commitments. Her daughter Jenny surprises her with a visit, but Carol can't find the time to spend with her due to her busy schedule. Carol's husband, David, also feels neglected as she spends most of her time at work, and he is left to take care of their cat, Mr. Pickles, who ends up being rushed to the hospital due to an accidental overdose.

Throughout the episode, Carol learns valuable lessons about the sacrifices doctors have to make, both professionally and personally, to do their job effectively. She discovers that empathy and compassion are just as important as medical expertise when treating patients. The episode ends on an emotional note, as Carol realizes that her dream of becoming a doctor comes with its own set of challenges, but she is determined to persevere.

Carol's Second Act season 1 episode 4 is a heartwarming and insightful exploration of the medical profession and the personal sacrifices that come with pursuing one's dreams. The episode strikes a perfect balance between humor and drama, and the performances by the cast are top-notch. Anyone who has ever aspired to be a doctor or has been touched by the medical profession in any way will find this episode a must-see.