By Greg Ellison, Staff Writer

(Dec. 7, 2017) Pocomoke citizens continue to send supportive thoughts and prayers as Mayor Bruce Morrison begins an apparent long road to recovery after undergoing emergency surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, or traumatic brain injury, at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware, last week.

Pocomoke Councilwoman Esther Troast said Morrison’s wife noticed something was wrong early last Wednesday morning and called 911. He was rushed by ambulance from his home to Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury at around 2:30 a.m.

“Laura was awoken by him getting sick and couldn’t wake him,” she said. “She suspected it was a stroke.”

Troast said surgeons had to act quickly after an unconscious Morrison was admitted with brain swelling.

“They suspected a brain aneurysm, but it was a large hematoma on the right side of the back of his skull,” she said. “Had they not done the surgery, he might not have survived.”

Because of the severity of the condition, doctors tried to transport Morrison by helicopter to medical facilities on the western shore, but were unable to because of heavy fog. Instead, two emergency room nurses volunteered to ride along in an ambulance and Morrison was taken to Newark, by land.

Troast, Councilman George Tasker and City Manager Bobby Cowger traveled to Newark to check in on Morrison, last Wednesday afternoon.

“We’ve been lifelong friends, but have gotten a stronger bond since we’ve worked together as city officials,” Troast said.

Although Morrison was unable to speak, Troast feels certain her sentiments registered.

“I got right to his ear to talk to him and his fingers moved,” she said. “I truly believe he heard what I said.”

As word spread that Morrison was fighting for his life, an outpouring of support from Pocomoke residents was apparent.

“The thing about Pocomoke … you might not be blood, [but] when a citizen is in need of prayers or healing graces this town comes together as one,” Troast said.

In addition to Salem United Methodist Church opening its doors for a prayer vigil, Troast said Bayside Community Church launched an email prayer chain and other places of worship, including Lynnhaven Baptist Church and First Baptist, encouraged its members to send positive energy to Morrison

“Every church in town was praying,” she said. “The power of prayer is the key.”

On Monday, Tasker provided a Facebook update on Morrison’s condition.

“[Morrison] had a restful night and lots of hand squeezing,” he posted.

Troast, who will serve as interim mayor in Morrison’s absence, said it’s too early to know how severe the injury will be.

“It is our understanding it will be a very long recovery,” she said. “Each day will be like a new beginning.”

Despite the uncertainty, she said Morrison is progressing slowly, but surely.

“He’s a fighter and he’s definitely going to win this battle,” she said.

Troast also vowed the mayor and council’s ongoing mission to improve Pocomoke would continue.

“This council is dedicated and passionate about reviving the town,” she said. “I truly believe Bruce will back to lead us to that victory.”