Case History: Double trouble

Cody Lehe had a great life and a bright future. A tall, handsome, strapping young man, the 17-year-old was a high school senior and captain of the football team. Lehe was also a smart student with his sights set on college. Buoyed by the support of a loving, well-to-do family, he had everything going for him.

Tragically, Lehe's life was to take a sharp turn that not only derailed his potential, but also was very nearly fatal.

It began on the football field. American football is a game that demands teamwork, strategy, skill and a tougher-than-nails attitude. If you want to play the game, pain is to be expected - and ignored.

During a Friday night game, Lehe received a helmet-to-helmet hit from an opponent during a tackle. Although he was able to get back up, he told a teammate that it was the hardest hit he had ever received.

The impact left Lehe dizzy and unable to see clearly. But true to the macho code of football, he gritted his teeth, shook off the discomfort, and finished the game.

The next night, Lehe went to watch a college football game. But the following day, he complained of a severe headache and felt extremely tired. On Monday morning, he told his mother he wanted to see a doctor.