Rick Patrick: Greene Publishing, Inc.
It started as what seemed to be a simple case of vertigo. That uncomfortable feeling of dizziness or spinning that can make a person literally question, which end is up? Vertigo is often caused by some problem around the inner ear. Often, it is not necessarily a sign of a serious problem, however anything such as vertigo should be checked by a physician. That was the problem faced by Madison County resident Jim Adams. For months, Adams suffered from vertigo. He had been treated by a Chiropractor, a family physician and even referred to physical therapy. A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exam was attempted, but was unsuccessful due to Adams' claustrophobia. Then sinus pressure became an issue and it was decided that some sort of diagnostic scan needed to be done in order to pin-point the source of the problem.
On Friday, Sept. 15, a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed, with a follow-up scheduled for the next day. It was then that a brain tumor was discovered attached to his cerebellum. (The cerebellum is the part of the brain, located at the back of the skull, that regulates and coordinates muscular activity.) Further examination showed the tumor was blocking fluid from draining from Adams' brain, causing a condition known as Hydrocephalus. The pressure from the fluid, along with the tumor pressing against Adams' brain stem caused a very dangerous situation. Surgery was necessary to remove the tumor in order to avoid a stroke, or worse.
On Thursday, Oct 5, surgery was performed to remove the tumor, which was determined to be benign. The first couple of days after the surgery went as planned and it appeared that Adams may be able to return home in a few days, then complications began. What was originally thought would be a week in the hospital turned into two weeks. Progress in Adams' recovery was being made until another setback sent Adams back into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Fluid was again building up around Adams' brain. The fluid was drained and another surgery was needed to place a shunt in order to alleviate fluid build-up and pressure.
A shunt was successfully placed and Adams' progress has been good since. Because of the nature of Adams' condition, Adams' wife, Teresa, has not been able to work. Adams still faces another six weeks in the hospital until he is strong enough and physically able to come home. He also still faces an extensive rehabilitation program. This ordeal has placed the family in a difficult financial situation. A fund has been set up to help the family. Anyone wishing to donate may do so at Madison County Community Bank, located at 301 E. Base St., in Madison.