A disturbing Christmas day call from a friend since childhood. Very disjointed call, he trying to remember words. Finally, he mentioning three brain traumas he suffered...first during high school years, dumping his Vespa (no helmet) when a small child ran out in front of him. I remember that one, happened in front of our home. Head hit on a curb...very low speed, but definitely rang his bell. A brief hospital stay, some stitches, then all seemed okay. He did play football in high school, running back, but a knee injury sidelined him during his junior year.
2nd one was a car accident...face into a windshield. I remember the massive forehead scarring he had on that one..plus a hospital stay, for a few days. Cosmetically restored via plastic surgery.
ROTC during college, went into the USAF, became an F-111 pilot during the 70's.
3rd one the biggie...he then an adult, piloting for American. Based in Dallas. Got T Boned while on his motorcycle by a red light runner. He darned near didn't survive that one. Weeks in the hospital, more than a few surgeries. This was late 80's. Again, everything worked out. Perhaps lucky that the crash happened near the same hospital they took JFK to. Evidently, some top trauma medical talent works there. He continued with his airline days, retired at the mandatory age 60.
Currently retired, age 72, living in Florida...said symptoms began about 2 years ago, finally saying that's why he sold the plane he built.
Guess this is really for the MD's here...is it highly likely this is CTE? I know no definite way yet to diagnose, but his genetic are good...both his parents remained mentally sharp until their deaths in their late 80's.
Also, any guesses at a prognosis? I know CTE is progressive and there is no cure...so I guess I'm asking is "how long"? Any educated guesses?
Yes, this news is hitting me pretty hard...
