‘Chicago Fire’ Recap: ‘Through the Skin’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

CHICAGO FIRE -- "Through The Skin" Episode 13004 -- Pictured: Hanako Greensmith as Violet Mikami -- (Photo by: Peter Gordon/NBC)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 13004 of ‘Chicago Fire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular trope that pops up often in medical themed storytelling, is that the heroes of the story, can basically do whatever they want to save lives. Which makes sense. After all, audiences are tuning in to see professionals do what must be done to save a life, and rules be damned because life is something so many of us cherish. So, that’s what we get, fiery heroes that stop at nothing to keep people breathing, and well, while that is indeed inspiring, it isn’t something that rings true. In fact, it’s hardcore escapism. For there are rules and regulations that every professional must abide by, to ensure safety of the public and safety of the patient and there are consequences for breaking those rules. 

Which is why this week’s episode of Chicago Fire on NBC is of note. Simply because, ‘Through the Skin’ explored that harsh truth by putting Violet Mikami through the wringer. For while she and Novak were on a harrowing call, a tough decision had to be made. For they were trying to resuscitate a woman that just collapsed in her home, and sadly… they were ready to just call her DOA when her sister arrived and informed them, that this poor soul was eight months pregnant. And with other trucks and ambos dispatched out to other crises, Mikami either had to perform a c-section on the spot or let the baby die. Of course, she chose the latter, and the baby was indeed saved and in any other story that would not matter.

In fact, Violet would have been a hero, been celebrated, etc. But here, that did not happen. Simply because she wasn’t qualified to do that operation, and there was risk that the baby could have been harmed. Which meant, she was suspended and there was a chance she was going to get booted out of 51. Which stunned her and pushed her to seek Pascal and Goodwin’s (from Chicago Med) council on how to keep her job. Because truly, she was a hero and did nothing wrong… but the rules were the rules. However, her track record, her passion and the concern she expressed over not being able to save lives, prompted Pascal to step up, and make amends for his fist-related actions to call in some favors… and have her reinstated.

Which was lovely to see since Violet is indeed as Novak put it, one of the best EMTs in the city. But what mattered more here, was that this story added some real gravity to this type of scenario and reminded us that sometimes, being a hero in the moment can be a struggle because of the rules and regulations that rightfully exist in our world. But while this could have carried this episode from beginning to end, it of course had more to offer us. Since we also saw Stella fight to get her new crew going, since Pascal wanted that truck to roll as soon as possible with a full lineup. Despite her once again going above and beyond as a firefighter, leaving one to wonder if they’re just oil and water. But it would seem Hermann has a solution there. Plus, there was some comedy to be found via Cruz and his quest to make his son whole again when his bike was stolen. Because it isn’t everyday you see a firefighter steal a bike. 

Not to mention, it was nice to see Severide do his little brother a solid by taking the time to help him land a full-time job. All of which, gave rise to another compelling story about Firehouse 51. One that once again had that hint of realism within it, thanks to Violet’s fascinating journey, one that really did point out that heroism comes with a price, and she also enjoyed some growth here too when it comes to relationship troubles. Which really did make this a Violet-centric episode and that’s not a bad thing by any means. Because it just goes to show that everyone gets screentime and growth in this series and you really cannot go wrong with a show eager to do that, and that of course, leaves us eager to see… who else is up next for a little growth and screen time as season thirteen of this amazing show continues along. Until next time.

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