BEHIND EVERY SAIL
Sean’s New Beginning
Just after his 32nd birthday, Sean’s life changed dramatically. Following a severe respiratory crisis, he found himself ventilator- and trach-dependent, facing months of recovery. But Sean wasn’t alone, his girlfriend Rose, his Aunt Rosalinda, and the Sail Healthcare team stood by his side, making sure the transition home felt manageable and filled with hope.
“Jana and Lupe made everything so easy,” Sean shared. With hands-on education and support, Rose quickly became an expert in trach care and suctioning, ensuring Sean had the care he needed right at home.
With determination, family support, and Sail’s guidance, Sean began rebuilding his strength. In just six months, he was walking again, weaning to nighttime ventilation, and had lost more than 230 pounds. Today, he’s working toward having his trach removed and embracing life with a renewed sense of purpose.
“My near-death experience was a spiritual awakening,” Sean said. “It gave me purpose and pushed me to better myself.”
At Sail, we’re honored to be part of Sean’s journey, one that proves with care, community, and courage, even the hardest chapters can turn into new beginnings.
Thalia's Story
Thalia -23- She wants to be a medical assistant working with pediatric patients. She has one lung and a whole lot of passion.
If you could inspire another young person who’s going through a medical crisis, what advice would you give them?
It will get better later on. It took me 2-3 years to fully get better and to realize it just takes time and patience.
How did you become such a strong advocate for yourself?
I would say my mom. At first, I had nurses who would do everything for me. Then I had a nurse for a while who taught me everything. The nurse and my mom pushed me to be independent. They showed me that I’m going to grow up someday and that I’ll need to be able to do everything myself. I’ll have to plan my own appointments and everything.
I want to help other people advocate for themselves as well. I want to show them that if I can do it, they can do it. They can keep fighting.
How has Sail supported you in your health journey?
They’ve been good and on time with everything. They make sure I have everything I need. They stay up to date with everything which is why I like them.
Who inspires you?
My mom and Dr. Patel. He’s been with me my entire life, since I was a baby. He really knows me and has inspired me to keep pushing and pushing. I even did Make-A-Wish because of him. He told us how to get involved with that.
You’re inspiring to me for sure and I know you’re going to inspire others.
This past summer brought one of her toughest battles yet, but true to who she is, Audrie faced it with resilience and grace. Surrounded by family, faith, and the support of her care team, she pulled through once again, reminding everyone around her that hope is stronger than fear.
Today, Audrie continues to inspire. She teaches those who know her to celebrate small victories, lean on community, and find joy even on the hard days. Her story is one of courage, perseverance, and unconditional love, a reminder that every child’s light deserves to shine.
At Wave Healthcare, we are honored to be part of stories like Audrie’s, stories that show us the power of faith, family, and compassionate care. Because behind every piece of equipment is a child with a future, and behind every journey is a reason to believe in hope.
Marco’s Story
Meet Marco! Once a Wave patient, now part of Sail’s family.
Marco has SMA Type 2, ventilator dependent with a tracheostomy. Recent medications have helped slow SMA’s progression, giving him the strength to go without a ventilator for about an hour at a time.
This newfound independence has allowed Marco to enjoy new things as his first day at the beach in South Padre Island. With a special wheelchair and the support of his family, he rolled across the sand and even splashed in the water. An unforgettable trip for him, his immediate and extended family, and his nurse who says this marks the start of an annual tradition. Marco’s positivity continues to shine brighter with every adventure!
At Wave and Sail Healthcare, we’re proud to support patients like Marco who are affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). We understand the complexity of the condition and the strength of the families behind it.
We look forward to many more beach trips with Marco!
Behind every sail, there is a story worth telling. A series created to honor the journeys of our patients, their resilience, their challenges, & their triumphs.
Through #BehindEverySail, we share the voices that inspire us every day, reminding us that care is more than treatment, it’s about people, their strength, and the hope that carries them forward.
Contact Sail Healthcare
Pediatric DME Specializing in Respiratory and Enteral Care
For questions about our respiratory and enteral home care services, our home medical equipment, or to inquire about referrals, contact Wave Healthcare, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.
