JACKSON – Sen. Jack Gordon resumed his duties at the state Capitol on Monday, a little more than a week after being listed in critical condition at University Medical Center in Jackson.

Gordon said he had been diagnosed with a lesion on the front of his brain. He said doctors believe it can be treated with medication and that he can live a normal life, but if surgery is required it would be less-invasive laser type.

Gordon said he did not recall what happened when he became ill March 6, but apparently he became disoriented on the way to Columbus for dinner after attending the Tennessee-Mississippi State basketball game in Starkville.

He said he was told he ran off the road into a bean field, was taken to Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle in Columbus and was stabilized there before being transferred via helicopter to UMC.

Gordon, 65, admitted he might have been a difficult patient for the UMC staff. He was discharged Friday, but said he left twice against the advice of his doctors to return to the Senate to check on legislation. He said he was not accustomed to being constrained.

“I am 65 years old and have never had any problems,” he said. “I exercise 45 minutes to an hour every day.”

Gordon said doctors advised him to curtail his exercise regimen.

The Democrat said he was touched by the outpouring of support, including a sign in his hometown of Okolona urging people to “pray for Jack Gordon.”

“I never get emotional, but I had so many calls, so many text messages, so many flowers,” he said.

“It was an experience. I am glad I got good medical care.”

Gordon will undergo additional medical tests today.

Gordon is in his 35th year in the Legislature. He previously has served as Appropriations Committee chairman under three lieutenant governors. He currently is chairman of the Public Property Committee.

He represents District 8, which consists of Chickasaw and portions of Lee, Calhoun and Grenada counties.

Contact Bobby Harrison at (601) 353-3119 or bobby.harrison@djournal.com.

The first day of turkey season and i shot seven turkeys (with camera of course).ha…there was twelve last year so i guess we lost five of them.and to this could be another bunch….enjoy