Week Commencing July 28th 2002

The drama continued at Bar Brookie with Dr Garry Parr trying to save Ron Dixon’s life. Mike arrived, and wasn’t too impressed when he saw Garry treating Ron, as he still blamed him for his misdiagnosis of Beth's condition. Later at the hospital Mike was frantic with worry, and as Garry tried to persuade him to stay calm they realised they had a lot in common. After talking about their past, they realised that they had both attended the same university, drank in the same pubs and had similar problems living up to the expectations of their respective fathers.

When Ron’s condition started to deteriorate Mike and Jacqui were told the only way to save his life would be for him to have a triple heart bypass. Ron was adamant he didn’t want an operation, but was told that if he wouldn't agree, he should consider the effect his death would have on his family. Ron felt he had no choice but to agree, but then they heard from Garry that there was a nine-month waiting list for the operation. When he suggested they go private, Mike readily agreed, offering to split the cost between him and Jacqui, but was shocked to learn the operation could cost in excess of £10,000.

Meanwhile there were also problems in the Murray house as Marty became increasingly concerned about the police investigating his past. Marty tried to explain his problems to Diane, but only succeeded in making her suspicious, as she believed he was hiding something from her. In an effort to get the truth Diane later quizzed Steve about his mum, something that Marty found even more worrying.

Also on Brookside this week Leanne tried to make a good impression on Debbie while Kirsty was hoping for a good send off at the family barbecue before she left to go travelling. However she was disappointed when she got a good soaking instead.
Gabby was still haunted by feelings of guilt over Rob’s death. Jerome was keen to travel around Europe but wasn't sure if he could persuade Nikki to leave Jimmy’s side ?.