**Dasha Shares Positive Surgery Update, Emphasises Importance of Sign Language**
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Country music star Dasha, known for her hit song “Austin,” has provided a reassuring update following her recent vocal cord nodule surgery. The 26-year-old artist shared her recovery journey with fans through a heartfelt Instagram video, a testament to her ongoing commitment to communication, even in challenging circumstances.
In late September, Dasha, whose full name is Anna Dasha Novotny, announced her decision to take a brief hiatus from her music career due to the necessity of undergoing surgery. She explained that the physical toll from two-and-a-half years of continuous touring and performances had finally taken its toll. “It just caught up with me,” she stated in an interview with Billboard, highlighting how her hectic schedule impacted her health.
The surgery, which took place on October 23, was described by Dasha as a success. In the Instagram clip, she was seen lying in her hospital bed, using sign language to convey her well-being to her followers. “Hi, surgery just finished, all good,” she signed, while also expressing her discomfort, saying, “My throat hurts like a bitch, wow.” The light-hearted nature of her update reassured her fans that she was on the mend, and she confirmed that she planned to rest extensively to aid her recovery.
In addition to her updates about surgery, Dasha took a moment to express her gratitude towards her mother for her support during this time. She also thanked her medical team at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for their care. “I’m really hungry. Yesterday, I didn’t eat anything,” she remarked, showcasing a mix of humour and vulnerability in her message.
Just two days before her surgery, Dasha shared another video in which she spoke about her experience with sign language. Having learned the language in high school, she has often cited her teacher, Kristen Nusbaum, as a significant influence in her life, nurturing her love for sign language and the culture within the deaf community. Dasha reflected on how challenging it can be to utilise her sign language skills in social settings where her friends do not share that knowledge.
During her Instagram post, Dasha encouraged her followers to engage with her through sign language, offering an open invitation for questions and interaction from those who understand the language. “You can ask me questions or stitch this video and we can be friends,” she signed, welcoming connection and communication.
Dasha’s use of sign language is not a new venture for her. In June 2025, she shared a memorable experience on social media where she communicated with a deaf fan at one of her concerts. This encounter had a lasting impression on her, as she recounted the joy of being able to connect and communicate through sign language, saying, “These are the moments that make making music so special.”
As she continues her recovery, Dasha’s commitment to fostering inclusivity through her art remains paramount. Her determination to overcome health challenges while simultaneously advocating for sign language highlights her multifaceted role as an artist and a member of the broader community.
Fans of the country star are eagerly awaiting her return to the stage, and Dasha’s candid updates ensure that they remain engaged and informed about her journey. With her positive outlook and dedication to her craft, her followers can look forward to her music and continued efforts to celebrate the beauty of communication in all its forms.
As she recuperates, many are hopeful for a swift return to perform, where she can once again share her music and her passion for inclusivity with her audience.