Overview
- Dustin “Dusty” Wildman, who inhaled metallic lustre powder Friday while his mother baked, remains in intensive care after emergency surgery to clear his lungs.
- His mother said doctors are preparing to remove his breathing tube today as he begins to take more breaths on his own.
- Clinicians warned his recovery is uncertain and said the injury could leave lasting damage to his lungs.
- Hospital testing found the decorative powder contained copper and zinc and that the dust turns to paste with moisture, which can clog small airways.
- The supplier has pulled the product and told stockists to destroy it, and a GoFundMe is helping his parents stay in Brisbane as they push for clearer labels separating edible and non‑edible cake powders.