Some patients may not have the ability to speak during their care, but that doesn’t mean they should lose their voice. Particularly in the Intensive Care Unit, patients often require an alternative way to communicate with their care providers due to medical equipment—such as a ventilator—that restricts speech or because their condition—such as a stroke—has affected their ability to talk. To address these patients’ unique needs, a team of passionate front-line caregivers is working to develop a platform called Voice to the Voiceless.
When we last reported on Voice to the Voiceless in October 2024, the platform existed as a rudimentary prototype but showed promise in testing with patients and staff. In the months since then, the team has made significant progress, thanks to the generosity of our donors.
In June 2025, we were honored to receive a Meta Data Center Community Action Grant to support this vital work. We extend our gratitude to the META Temple Data Center for championing healthcare experiences and innovations that prioritize people.
We also want to thank Thomas Burdett, chair of the Baylor Scott & White Central Texas Foundation Board, and his wife, Donna, who stepped up with a personal challenge match gift. Thanks to the incredible response from select board and community members, we met the goal and unlocked the full match.
The team continues to make steady progress on development of the Voice to the Voiceless app and has acquired several custom-built carts that allow for flexible device positioning while maintaining sturdy balance. A pilot phase is planned to begin soon, starting in the Temple area. From there, we hope to expand to additional Baylor Scott & White facilities, training staff and equipping facilities to support this technology.
Looking ahead, our goal is to achieve full systemwide adoption and establish a scalable product that sets a new standard of care across the U.S. and beyond. Together, we are giving a voice to the voiceless and transforming lives, one word at a time.
