As Meredith and Cristina discuss their relationship woes at the Emerald City Bar, their session of lamenting is interrupted when Joe, the bartender, collapses. And as Chief Webber recovers from brain surgery, he appoints one surgeon as interim chief -- much to the dismay of another surgeon -- and he assigns George to report back with hospital gossip. While a devastated Meredith learns more about Derek and Addison's relationship, a confused Cristina tries to make decisions about her connection with Dr. Burke.

Some very deep secrets are made painfully public when Meredith's mother, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease, is brought to Seattle Grace for a surgical procedure. Meanwhile, some frightening news about Cristina's health is brought out into the open.