Ex-adult film star Emily Willis “may never breathe independently again,” as a doctor suggests she is likely experiencing “locked-in syndrome” following a cardiac arrest.

Dr. Gareth Nye shared with the Daily Star that Emily’s future appears drastically different from the glamorous life she once led at the peak of her career, assuming she can achieve a full recovery. He indicated that she is facing “locked-in syndrome” due to “brain damage” sustained during her cardiac arrest in February.

Dr. Nye expressed concerns about her recovery, noting that it becomes “harder for a patient to return” to their previous health level after being in an “immobile or vegetative state” for an extended period. Since there have been no official updates on her condition since May, he remarked: “The longer a patient remains immobile or in a vegetative state, the more challenging it is for them to regain their former health.”

He added, “What is concerning is the breakdown and loss of muscle mass. Studies indicate that individuals in ICU or a coma-like state can lose about 2% of their muscle mass each day. This significantly affects future mobility, particularly the muscles that assist with breathing. If they deteriorate enough, it can make it nearly impossible for patients to come off ventilation and breathe independently.”

Updates on Emily’s health from her family ceased in May when they confirmed she had emerged from her coma after being admitted to a medical facility in Thousand Oaks, California, on February 5. At that time, they reported she had regained consciousness but was still unable to speak and could only track objects with her eyes.

Dr. Nye previously stated that Emily “will likely never recover” beyond basic eye and facial movements. “What we are witnessing is the brain damage resulting from a lack of oxygen following the cardiac arrest,” he explained. “It’s encouraging that she appears conscious, recognizes people, and can track with her eyes. However, it is highly probable she is suffering from locked-in syndrome,” which means she is fully aware of her surroundings and emotions but unable to move any part of her body except her eyes.