Mary’s journey: How expert neurosurgical care at St. Mary saved her life

When Mary Bartlett experienced a persistent headache, she had no idea her symptoms were signaling a neurological emergency requiring surgery. 

Thanks to the rapid response and expert care provided by the neurosurgical team at St. Mary Medical Center, Mary was stabilized as she worked toward recovery.

Recognizing the signs

Although she tried taking over-the-counter medications for the headache, it persisted over the next few days. Once her pain got to the point she could no longer tolerate, Mary decided to go to St. Mary Medical Center’s emergency department. There, the clinical team acted swiftly, identifying the neurological red flags and began the diagnostic process. Mary found out in the emergency department that she had a brain aneurysm and underwent surgery that same day.

A coordinated team approach

From the moment Mary arrived, she was met by a multidisciplinary neuroscience team that prioritized both her physical and emotional needs. Mandy Binning, MD, medical director of the Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic stroke program, worked with a team of specialists to assess her condition and begin intervention. Mary felt supported at every stage, as her care team provided consistent updates and compassionate encouragement throughout her treatment journey.