Fast Action Leads to Lifesaving Stroke Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center

Charlotte Moro, 72, from Chesterfield, Missouri, sensed something was wrong, and it was something she couldn’t quite explain. One moment she was having dinner with her husband, Joe, and the next, her words simply wouldn’t come out. She felt no pain—just an overwhelming sense that something wasn’t right.  

Joe, a longtime Missouri Baptist Medical Center volunteer and Foundation board member, noticed it too. After years of seeing Charlotte experience transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)—brief episodes caused by a temporary loss of blood flow to the brain—he knew the signs. TIAs often last only minutes, but they’re serious indicators of stroke risk. And this time, Joe knew something far more urgent was unfolding.  

“It felt different,” Joe says. “I knew we needed to move fast.”  

 Evaluate my stroke risk 

Advanced stroke care when every second counted

Joe rushed Charlotte to Missouri Baptist. The moment they arrived, the Emergency Department team acted swiftly. Charlotte was evaluated and taken for a CT scan.  

Working with a WashU Medicine neurologist at Barnes-Jewish Hospital through BJC HealthCare’s telestroke network—which connects all 14 BJC hospitals to WashU Medicine stroke specialists 24/7—the team confirmed the diagnosis: an ischemic stroke, the most common type, caused by a blood clot.  

Charlotte received specialized, coordinated stroke care made possible by Missouri Baptist’s neuroscience program and advanced virtual stroke capabilities.  

Everything moved quickly, and that speed made all the difference.  

Charlotte was given tenecteplase, also known as TNK, a newer clot-busting medication designed to restore blood flow, giving her the best chance for recovery.  

“Every staff member we encountered the moment we walked in the hospital was wonderful,” Joe says. “I am simply amazed at their level of expertise, skill, and compassion.”  

Recovery built on every moment  

Charlotte continues to receive exceptional neurological care at Missouri Baptist, where she sees BJC Medical Group neurologist Michael Butler, MD. “Dr. Butler is amazing,” Charlotte says. “He is patient with me, listens closely, and I always feel supported.”

Charlotte undergoes regular neurological and cognitive assessments to ensure her brain is healing. “Dr. Butler takes the time to explain each test and what the results mean,” Charlotte says. “His thoughtful approach makes me feel comforted and confident during my recovery.”  

Ongoing follow-up care with a neurologist plays an important role in recovery and long-term health. These visits help develop a personalized stroke prevention plan, address post-stroke complications, monitor healing and progress, and ensure medications are carefully managed as patients transition back to daily life.  

Charlotte’s recent evaluations showed strong cognitive function, giving her the reassurance that she is on a healthy path forward.  

Charlotte also found strength in connecting with others navigating life after a stroke and joined Missouri Baptist’s free stroke support group. Each month, stroke survivors come together to share experiences, offer hope, and encourage one another on their recovery.  

“I’ve learned helpful tips about living life after a stroke, and everyone is kind and helpful,” Charlotte says. “It is such a gift to have this support here in our community. It gives me strength knowing that I am not alone.” 

Moments that matter

Charlotte’s journey reflects what Missouri Baptist delivers every day—being present, prepared, and compassionate in the moments that can change a life.  

For Charlotte, those moments included an Emergency Department team ready the instant she needed help, WashU Medicine specialists connected through advanced telestroke technology, a neurologist who guided her recovery with skill and reassurance, and a support group that offers hope and healing.  

Charlotte’s story is a powerful reminder of how fast action, advanced stroke expertise, and compassionate care can change the outcome for patients facing neurological emergencies.

"As a grateful husband, I've seen firsthand what the Missouri Baptist neurological team can do,” Joe says. “They stepped in with lifesaving skill and kindness. Our community is fortunate to have this care so close to home.”

“I’ve learned helpful tips about living life after a stroke, and everyone is kind and helpful,” Charlotte says. “It is such a gift to have this support here in our community. It gives me strength knowing that I am not alone.” 

Learn more about the signs of stroke and how expert stroke care can save lives.