Chip Windsor, a lifelong resident of Havana, has dedicated nearly 30 years of service to the Mason County Sheriff’s Office. On a seemingly ordinary day in June 2023, Chip’s life took an unexpected turn when he suffered a stroke.
On the morning of June 11, 2023, he remembers waking up and reaching for his phone to check the weather. He noticed that his right arm wasn’t functioning properly. Thinking that he must have slept on it awkwardly; he got up to start his day. “When I finished putting my shoes on, I couldn’t tie them. I knew something was wrong,” recalled Chip. Upon arriving at Mason District Hospital’s Emergency Department, he began explaining his symptoms to the team when his speech started to slur. Dr. James Brown, the attending physician, promptly performed a NIH stroke scale and initiated the hospital’s stroke protocol. “The entire process went smoothly. Everything was moving very quickly, but it wasn’t chaotic. Everyone knew what their roles and responsibilities were,” stated Chip.
A CT scan confirmed Chip had suffered a stroke, and he was administered the clot-busting medication IV tPA. He was then transported to a major medical center for comprehensive stroke care. “During my transfer, I began to regain feeling in my right hand, fingers, and arm,” recalled Chip. After a few days in the ICU, Chip returned home with no physical impairments and minor memory issues. “The care team at the facility I was transferred to said that I have no idea how lucky I am to be alive. I was fortunate that Mason District Hospital was so close to home and responded the way that they did,” he expressed.
After some time away, Chip resumed his duties at the Mason County Sheriff’s Office, occasionally managing dispatch responsibilities. “We work closely with the Mason County Sheriff’s Office, and it was great to hear Chip’s voice over the paging system when he returned to work,” stated Lisa Shore, Director of Emergency Services at Mason District Hospital. A year later, Chip visited Mason District Hospital to share his story and to thank the team that helped save his life. “I’m glad we were here for you and can be here for you in the future,” stated Dana Adcock, CEO. He shared a heartfelt conversation with Dr. Brown, who emphasized the efficiency and capability of rural hospital teams. “I’m really glad everything worked out the way that it did,” said Dr. Brown. Chip hopes that by sharing his story, others will recognize the importance of quick action and comprehensive medical care in stroke situations.
Mason District Hospital has proudly earned the designation of an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital by the Illinois Department of Public Health. If you or someone you know begins to exhibit symptoms of a stroke, remember to act FAST: Facial Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, Time to call 911. The faster a stroke is treated, the higher chances of recovery.
