Natalie – Status Update

April 4, 2026

Natalie is still wearing her mask. Later today, she will have a brief test (like 30 minutes) where the mask will come off. My expectation is she will have the high flow canula replacing the mask. She can't wait. She has so many words to express. With her hands, she communicated that she wants to talk. When we asked what about, she spread her arms wide indicating 'everything'

Natalie is looking much more comfortable in her current position. Her oxygen input remains the same and her stats are staying good, so it appears as if they have found the right formula for Natalie, without a tube. Now we need to tune that formula towards weaning her off of the mask. It will be really good for Natalie to regain her voice.

Great news!!! Natalie had an outstanding breathing test. What does a breathing test look like for Natalie? They take the mask off and check out how she does with her breathing with no support but a nasal canula. The test was defined as 30 minutes and then the mask would go back on. Natalie did amazing. Her oxygen levels stayed up in the high 90's and even hit 100%.

Based on Natalie's successful test today, the plan is to get her off the mask early tomorrow and see if she can make the day. If she does well there, they were even talking about her getting some sips of water. Natalie is very dry and the hope of water is very motivating.