Chapter 31: The Get-Well Card

Summary

• The chapter's title is "The Get-Well Card."
• In 1960, surviving a heart attack was rare, but the character in question had a minor one and did survive.
• He will have a three-week hospital stay and a year of bed rest.
• Walter is shocked to find out that Elizabeth called the ambulance and saved Phil's life.
• Elizabeth had gone to meet Phil because he requested an urgent meeting, where he unexpectedly fired her, Walter, and the whole show team for her insubordination.
• Phil accused Walter of not being able to control Elizabeth.
• Walter is stressed because fighting Phil is considered career suicide, but he explains that their popularity should be enough to keep their show running.
• Phil has told Walter that sponsors hate Elizabeth and are considering walking away from the show.
• Elizabeth then reveals that not only was she aware of the syndication offers that Phil kept from Walter but also that the sponsors are eager to work with them, contrary to what Phil had claimed.
• Four days later, Walter is in charge and behind Phil's old desk, trying to adapt to a new management style focused on respect rather than intimidation.
• Elizabeth encourages Walter to take control and to "pretend" when in doubt about how to proceed.
• Walter succeeds in making beneficial deals, syndicating their show, and finding new sponsorships, potentially doubling profits.
• He holds a station-wide meeting to give updates on Phil's health and Elizabeth's heroic actions.
• A get-well card is made for Phil, but the messages inside range from polite wishes to outright hostility.
• Despite realizing his complicity in endorsing Phil's harmful management style, Walter decides to change, starting with himself, pledging that things will improve. He writes "MAY YOU NEVER RECOVER" on Phil's get-well card, signaling his commitment to change.