In *Home and Away* episode 8,323, Irene’s hidden struggle comes to light
at the hospital, leaving her friends worried and desperate to help. Leah and Marilyn express
their growing concern about Irene, but Justin reminds them that Irene won鈥檛 accept help
until she鈥檚 ready. What none of them realize is that Irene has collapsed at the bottom of her stairs, bleeding from a head wound.
John, eager to help his friend, asks Bri if it鈥檚 possible to treat someone who refuses help. Bri explains that the most resistant patients are often the most afraid. Shortly after, Harper arrives home to find Irene barely conscious in the dark, with a possible concussion. She immediately rushes her to the hospital, where Bri treats Irene鈥檚 wound. As she cares for her, Bri begins to piece together the truth, remembering her earlier conversation with John about Irene’s resistance to help.
Irene鈥檚 friends arrive at the hospital to check on her, but Irene, in a foul mood, lashes out and tells Leah to leave. Concerned, Bri asks Leah if there鈥檚 any medical history she should know about Irene, and Leah reveals that Irene is a recovering alcoholic, worried she might be relapsing. Despite Irene鈥檚 continued refusal for help, Bri’s gentle approach convinces her to stay overnight for observation.
However, Irene鈥檚 battle with her demons isn鈥檛 over. While at the hospital, she secretly reaches for the flask hidden in her bag, hoping to sneak a drink. Bri catches her in the act, exposing Irene鈥檚 struggle and possibly giving her the wake-up call she needs.
Meanwhile, Harper discovers that Dana has lied about Xander not knowing about the pregnancy. As Harper confronts him, unaware that Rose is nearby, the secret begins to unravel, and Rose is eager to figure out who the father is.
