Susan Cardillo

Susan Cardillo has always been someone who embraces change and challenges. After running several successful businesses, she made a bold life decision at 48: to become a nurse. She earned her degree from Galen College of Nursing and spent a decade caring for patients at HCA Florida Largo Hospital. Eventually, Susan moved out of the area, but in January 2025, she returned to the area, ready to settle back into the community she loved. She was busy getting her property in order — cleaning, organizing, and tackling all the little home projects that come with a move. On Super Bowl Sunday, while taking a break from her work, Susan began feeling neck discomfort and a mild headache. She brushed it off, thinking it was from overexertion or possibly a pinched nerve. She took a moment to rest and cool down.

Later that afternoon, when her husband came in to let her know that the Super Bowl snacks were ready, Susan tried to respond — but her words came out garbled. He started to walk away, but something didn’t sit right. He quickly turned back, recognized that something was very wrong.

That decision may have saved her life.

Susan was taken to the Emergency Room at HCA Florida Largo Hospital, quickly evaluated and treated for a ruptured aneurysm. She was hospitalized for three weeks requiring lifesaving interventions including airway protection, external ventricular drain, aneurysm treatment and aggressive rehabilitation. Thanks to her husband’s quick thinking and the expert care she received at HCA Florida Largo Hospital, her aneurysm was successfully treated, and she made an incredible recovery — without needing rehabilitation after discharge.

Today, Susan is back at work part-time, doing what she loves: caring for others. Her journey is a powerful reminder of how important it is to listen to your body, act fast, and never underestimate the strength of a survivor’s spirit.