Quincy community still seeking answers
QUINCY, Mich. (WLNS) – The mystery continues in this small Branch County community after air and water testing determined neither was the cause of neurological symptoms in several kids in the district.
In late February, the community expressed concerns after students began experiencing neurological symptoms and one teen was being treated out of state.
With the results from testing turning up nothing, the community came together Thursday night to support those impacted and continue to press for answers.
“Our kids play each other in sports and everything else,” said Samantha Gordon, a concerned parent. “So, to see their kids affected this way, it’s hard. I can’t imagine what these parents are feeling.”
The symptoms have included tremors, some so significant the students struggled to walk.
Gordon and a small group gathered Thursday night to hold signs and candles, praying for the recovery of Quincy High School students impacted by the strange onset of neurological symptoms.
“Strengthen their bones and uplift their spirit,” Gordon said during a prayer.
After the seizures, tremors and other symptoms arose, Qunicy school leaders informed the community they were working with village and state officials to test the water and air. Those results came back last week.
In a letter to the community Superintendent Marc Kramer reported air and water quality tests showed no concerns.
Middle School Principal Brandon Suever said while the results were promising, questions remain as to what is causing the issues.
“What other areas?” he asked. “I mean, this is an easy commonality for them – other kids go to school here. We want to be able to help families find answers and get healthy and we will continue to support families however we can.”
In this small village, support is shown through acts of support for the impacted families and asking questions in search of answers.
“I can’t imagine my child – or any child – going through that,” says Heidi Holmes, a resident who is supporting one of the impacted families. “So, to get them back on their feet, walking and get them back to being a normal teenager and enjoying the rest of their high school career.”
Principal Stuever says the district is still waiting on the results of one more water test before the water fountains are made available again. For the last two weeks, students have been provided bottled water.
The student in an out of state hospital has started physical therapy to regain the ability to walk again, the family tells 6 News.
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