ECMO is a modified heart-lung machine that takes over the function of the lungs for days, weeks, or even months, until those organs have recovered or a transplant is performed.

ECMO, the highest level of mechanical life support, functions as a temporary heart and lungs for some of COVID-19's sickest patients. But the waitlist is too long for many patients who need it.

When COVID-19 was continuing its deadly spread through Colorado, ICUs filled up. Ventilators and ECMO machines were in short supply and for one man, lifesaving.

The family of Palestine, Texas, Police Department Officer Fernando Nino, who has COVID-19, is among many searching for lifesaving ECMO machines, officials said.

“Ben is still on a ventilator and ecmo to support him while he heals. There are good days and bad, but on the good, they have been able to wean his sedation enough for him to open his eyes and ...