A 14-year-old from California, Zane Wach, is now off a ventilator after falling from a 120-foot cliff during a hike on Mount Whitney. Though he remains in a medically induced coma, the removal of his breathing tube this week signifies a major milestone in his recovery, as doctors begin to reduce his sedation.

His family shared that Zane is now focused on breathing independently and regaining the ability to cough and swallow. His father, Ryan Wach, noted, “This opens many new steps forward.” Zane sustained severe head trauma and multiple fractures, including injuries to his ankle, finger, and pelvis. Remarkably, doctors considered his survival “fairly miraculous.”

According to reports, Zane was hiking with his father when he began hallucinating, claiming to see fantasy figures such as snowmen and Kermit the Frog. Doctors believe he experienced altitude sickness, which led to a temporary disconnection from reality. Moments later, he approached a jagged ledge and fell approximately 120 feet. Ryan Wach tried to reach him but was too late.

The boy was rescued after a six-hour mountain rescue operation and airlifted to Sunrise Children’s Hospital in Las Vegas. His recovery journey is ongoing, with doctors now beginning to wean him off potent medications. His father described the process as “extremely hard and painful” as Zane endures withdrawal symptoms after more than two weeks on heavy drugs.

Zane’s school community has shown strong support, with students creating encouraging cards and notes for him. A supportive video shows members of his swim team expressing their hopes for his recovery, emphasizing their unity and encouragement.

A fundraising campaign has raised over $28,000 to assist Zane’s family with travel and medical expenses, while friends and community members continue to pray for his full recovery.