Time and TNK: A Stroke Survival Story
posted on: 5/1/2025 2:40:11 PM
Brian, a local electrician, was training an apprentice when he suddenly felt something was off. His hand weakened, his balance wavered, and his speech slurred—clear signs of a stroke. His co-workers quickly got him help and called 9-1-1. By the time the ambulance arrived, his blood pressure had skyrocketed above 220.
Thanks to Lima Memorial’s well-established stroke protocol, the stroke team already had a CT scan prepared and were ready to help save Brian’s life. The team quickly assessed Brian and explained the next steps—lowering his blood pressure to administer TNK, a clot-busting medication designed to restore blood flow to the brain and help prevent further stroke-related damage. "Once that shot was administered, I pointed to my mouth. I could tell I was getting better," Brian recalls.
The stroke team continued to monitor him closely, conducting additional tests to rule out further risks. Beyond treating the immediate medical crisis, they also provided him with education about the impact of high blood pressure, the dangers of smoking and other steps necessary to prevent another stroke.
Today, Brian is back to life and his career, knowing how different his story could have been. Brian’s experience is a powerful reminder that strokes do not wait, and neither should those experiencing symptoms. "Time is of the essence,” Brian urges. “The quicker you get here and get the care, the better the outcome."
If you are experiencing signs of a stroke, including numbness, confusion, severe headaches, one-sided arm or leg weakness, slurred speech or have trouble walking or seeing, call 911 immediately. Time is brain.
Click here to learn more about Lima Memorial’s Accredited, Certified Primary Stroke Center.
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