There are several possible reasons why Gloria Lamhauge may depend on long-term mechanical ventilation following her accident. Here are a few scenarios that could lead to her needing artificial ventilation: 1. Diaphragmatic paralysis: Gloria may have sustained an injury to her diaphragm, the main muscle responsible for breathing. If the diaphragm is paralyzed or weakened due to trauma, it can result in respiratory failure, necessitating mechanical ventilation to support her breathing. 2. Spinal cord injury: Depending on the location and severity of Gloria's spinal cord injury, it could affect the muscles involved in respiration. If the injury affects the phrenic nerves responsible for controlling the diaphragm, she may require artificial ventilation. 3. Rib fractures or chest trauma: Severe rib fractures or injuries to the chest wall can cause pain and limit effective respiratory movements. This can impair proper lung expansion and make it difficult for Gloria to breathe effectively, requiring mechanical ventilation to maintain adequate oxygenation. 4. Intra-abdominal injuries: Significant trauma to the abdomen can result in diaphragmatic and respiratory muscle dysfunction, which may necessitate mechanical ventilation to support her breathing until she recovers or undergoes surgery, if needed. 5. Pulmonary contusion: Gloria may have sustained a pulmonary contusion (bruised lung) as a result of the accident. This can lead to impaired gas exchange and poor oxygenation, warranting artificial ventilation until her lung function improves. It's important to note that the specific details of Gloria's injuries, as well as the medical opinion of her treating physicians, would ultimately determine why she requires mechanical ventilation in the movie.