WEEKLY EMMERDALE EPISODE REVIEW - MARLON DINGLE'S STROKE

I wasn't going to blog this week's Emmerdale episodes, however having watched the episodes and been moved, I am always so grateful to the soaps for doing storylines like this, and helping to raise awareness.

This week's episodes have been so powerful as a whole I have nothing but praise for Emmerdale whilst reminding me exactly why I love this show.

The episodes shared what a wonderful family unit that The Dingles have. I enjoyed the way that April Windsor gave Rhona Goskirk the go ahead. I loved the way that Marlon Dingle confided in Laurel Thomas ahead of his proposal to Laurel in the playground. One thing, I really liked was the way that Paddy has Marlon's back through everything their friendship is a wonderful one, even though later in the week Paddy struggled to visit his friend but struggle is honest.

The in-sync proposal from both Marlon and Rhona was beautifully timed, the smile from the pair says a lot. As an excited Marlon headed home to look for the ring to give to Rhona the slow motion begin as the dialogue over the top of the stroke that Marlon was having helpless and alone (remember F.A.S.T). These scenes were emotional ones especially as back in The Woolpack everyone was worried especially April who went to the house to look for him leading her to being the most important person to help her dad getting the help he needed as quick as she could. I have so much praise for Mark Charnock after this week's episodes it's unbelievable.

The hospital scenes over the past week have been the most emotional as the attention to detail thanks to the all the research that Emmerdale have put into this storyline is amazing and credit where it's due. These scenes allowed for Rhona and her mum, Mary Goskirk's to bond by being there when she needs support which has been wonderful to see. This week has seen the character of April grow and develop in a way that has been so beautiful to watch because at the same time it's allowed for people to see what a brilliant young actress, Amelia Flanagan is.

With Rhona wanting to be there through everything not being afraid to ask questions was really important along with Rhona's vulnerability which allowed for some emotive scenes from Zoe Henry. It was nice to see Rhona confide in her mother, Mary and Laurel Thomas and Paddy Kirk who was also struggling as the reality hit them, leading to him confiding in Mandy.

One thing I have really appreciated this week is the way that The Dingles' have rallied around to help and support one another - the importance of family has been highlighted brilliantly throughout. Thursday's episode saw cousins Charity and Chas Dingle finally forgive one another as Chas stepped behind the bar once again, before moving back into The Woolpack before telling Liv Dingle to remember where she is and vice versa. 

The vulnerability from Cain throughout the week has been something that I have liked seeing as it showed the softer side of the character.

The final scene of the week for me was a powerful one as it saw Marlon pushing Rhona away.

The episodes were written by Caroline Mitchell, Liam Johnson, Peter Kerry, Dawn Harrison, Jo Maris, and Jo Summerscales.

The episodes were directed by Michael Lacey (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) and Miguel Guerreiro on Friday's episode which I have to add the opening shot was perfectly selected showing a lot of vulnerability.

Emmerdale have worked very closely with the Stroke association on this storyline.

Did you know that a Stroke happens every 5 minutes in the UK. It can happen to anyone of any age at any time. It’s vital to know the signs of stroke in yourself and someone else.

The FAST test helps you to spot the most common signs

Facial Weakness: Can the person smile? Has their mouth of eye dropped?

Arm Weakness: Can the person raise both arms?

Speech Problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what they say?

Time to call 999. If you see any one of these signs.

If you need further information or support please visit the Stroke Association website at www.stroke.org.uk

These episodes of Emmerdale aired between Monday 21st - Friday 25th March on ITV.