Godspeed Sandra Oh...

Dr. Christina Yang, Sandra Oh, has just finished her last episode of Grey’s Anatomy. I have to mark the occasion. The bright hopeful light in my Thursday nights has just dimmed.

I want to personally thank the show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes, for not killing Dr. Yang off. I don’t think I could’ve handled it. Life is hard enough. I don’t need to see my favorite character of-all-time die some horrific, unimaginable death. I’m honestly grateful that I get to see my sister move to another country to pursue her career and use her God-given talents.

I know, I’m talking nonsense. She isn’t my sister. She’s a fictitious character, made up ten years ago for a one-hour drama centered on the personal and professional lives of five surgical interns and their supervisors. The thing is, she felt like a sister. She was written and portrayed with such truth and humanity, such complexity and strength, such intelligence and vulnerability that I felt like I knew her… like a sister.

Sandra Oh gave me something to look forward to on Thursday nights. She was my portal to a choice that I didn’t make, but one I admire, to become an extraordinary doctor. (Who doesn’t want to be a kick-ass doctor?) Each Thursday night, I got to watch her personify courage, acceptance, focus, drive, humility, unprecedented ambition, and finally love and all of its complications. Sandra Oh played Dr. Yang with such intensity and aplomb that with one look, I would understand her intentions and choices completely. We didn’t even need to talk. She completed me. Alright, I’m kidding. But she had the ability to make me feel deep seeded emotions with one look (the way my three sisters can). Heck, I’ll even go so far as to admit that many times, I even sobbed during her scenes.

I’ve read the interviews to see what will happen to Sandra Oh and where she’s going. I know she’ll do some plays and some films and continue to be extraordinary. Whatever she decides to do, I plan on supporting her. I’ve been in a friendship with her for almost ten years; it’s the least I could do.

I’m not sure what will happen to Grey’s next season (true fans drop the “Anatomy” part). I like the new hooks and possibilities. The rest of the cast is exceptional as are the writers so I’m sure they’ll give us some goods. I’ll keep watching to find out.

I could go on gushing. But on this momentous occasion, after years and years of watching this show, I just want to say, “Thank You” to Shonda Rhimes, for creating a strong, brilliant, twisty, fabulous character for all of us. We will miss her dearly. Seattle - Grace will never quite be the same.

And to you, Sandra Oh, as you take your journey, picture millions of us in our living rooms, on our feet, giving you a standing ovation. Thanks for the memories. We will never forget you.