Passy Muir believe that communication is the essence of the human spirit; it is essential to individual rights and dignity. They are committed in their efforts to offer tracheostomized and ventilator-dependent patients a step towards independence and dignity through speech. Invented by a patient named David Muir, the Passy-Muir^® Tracheostomy & Ventilator Swallowing and Speaking Valve is a simple medical device used by tracheostomy and ventilator patients. When placed on the hub of the tracheostomy tube or in-line with the ventilator circuit, the Passy-Muir Valve redirects air flow through the vocal folds, mouth and nose enabling voice and improved communication. Years of evidence-based research has shown that the Passy-Muir Valve offers patients numerous clinical benefits beyond communication, including: