A stroke survivor’s tribute to Dr. Charles Schutt and Ascension Sacred Heart

Nancy’s personal health journey began in May of last year, when she believed she experienced her first stroke and was admitted to the hospital. That’s when she met Dr. Charles Schutt, vascular neurologist, at Ascension Sacred Heart in Pensacola, Florida.

“[Dr. Schutt] walked in, looked at the MRI, and reassured me there were no signs I had a stroke that time,” Nancy recalled. 

While it was a false alarm, Dr. Schutt’s thorough evaluation identified an anomaly near her sinuses on imaging. He recommended follow-up with her primary care provider, which ultimately led to the discovery of a fungal infection. Nancy expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’d struggled with chronic sinus issues, and no one had found the cause until Dr. Schutt took the time to look deeper and connected me to the right care. That meant everything.”

On April 16 of this year, Nancy experienced a second, confirmed stroke. She was treated at Ascension Sacred Heart, where Dr. Schutt again played a key role. Initial imaging appeared inconclusive, but Dr. Schutt reviewed the MRI a second time. His thoroughness led to a timely and accurate diagnosis and prompted a broader investigation into the cause.

“What stood out was how thorough he was,” Nancy said. “He didn't stop at what was easy. He looked again, and that changed everything.”

Dr. Schutt ordered cardiac monitoring and referred Nancy to a cardiologist to evaluate for conditions such as atrial fibrillation. His methodical approach and clear communication provided her family with reassurance and direction during a difficult time.

“Nancy’s case reminded us why follow-through matters,” Dr. Schutt said. “Sometimes what’s not obvious at first needs a second look—and that can make all the difference.”

The stroke team at Sacred Heart coordinated closely with Nancy’s family, working to meet discharge criteria and arranging for her to return home in time for Easter. A nurse named Morgan and the therapy team played a key role in supporting that transition.

Nancy expressed deep appreciation for the care she received. “Dr. Schutt listened to me. He explained things clearly, not just to me but to my family. That’s rare,” she said. “He made us feel like we were part of the plan.”

Nancy continues to receive follow-up care under Dr. Schutt’s supervision. Her care plan includes cardiac evaluation, ongoing monitoring, and blood thinner therapy to reduce the risk of future stroke.

Outside the hospital, Nancy remains active. She finds strength in her family and faith and is focused on recovery and maintaining quality of life.

“Sacred Heart and Dr. Schutt gave me the chance to feel hopeful and truly seen,” she said. “For that, I’ll always be grateful.”

When you choose The Advanced Brain and Spine Institute at Ascension Sacred Heart in Northwest Florida, you will find a team of doctors who specialize in neurological disorders that affect your brain, spine and nerves. Ascension Sacred Heart has the region’s only neuroscience ICU and is recognized as a DNV designated Comprehensive Stroke Center. Your neurologists and neurosurgeons work with a team of brain and spine specialists from across the country, sharing best practices, knowledge and research bringing the best of our integrated national network of care, close to home. We have the expertise to help find the cause of your symptoms and deliver a personalized care plan.

Learn more about stroke care at Ascension Sacred Heart and schedule a first visit or get a second opinion with Dr. Schutt.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.