In fact, rather than what we got, it's entirely plausible for Ray to have left County and Chicago of his own accord -- take time off, clear his head, not wanting to deal with Neela and Gates. Yes, I know he's in the middle of his residency, but sometimes people make rash decisions in the heat of the moment. And I did note that the amputation storyline could be heart-wrenching and uplifting. But if Shane does not return, then our last memory is of a bitter, broken Ray with two bandaged stumps being wheeled out, helpless and dependent upon a woman (his mother) with whom he seems to have a complicated relationship.