This program is supported by Ethicon, Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company. ASPS Member Surgeons nominate patients who transmit an optimistic outlook on life and positively affect people around them, despite the difficulties of their reconstructive procedures.
Since only four individuals are honored each year, some of the nominees’ amazing stories go untold…until now. The following are stories of reconstructive plastic surgery patients nominated for the Patients of Courage award.
Cruz was born with Pfeiffer’s Syndrome, a congenital condition that prevents the bones of the skull and face from growing in a normal way.
Throughout his entire life, surgeons have worked to reconstruct his bones as they develop—and prevent the dental problems, poor vision, and hearing loss that Pfeiffer’s Syndrome can cause.
Devin's suicide attempt left him without his nose, the lower third of his jaw, and both lips.
In the following two-and-one-half months, he endured multiple surgeries: muscle flaps transplanted from his chest to provide blood supply and restore bulk to his face; bone and tissue relocated from his ribs to rebuild his nose and from his leg to reconstruct his jaw.
During his recovery, he realized there must be others, like him, in need of help, so he began focusing on getting help for young people who are suffering from depression.
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The Patients of Courage: Triumph Over Adversity program honors reconstructive plastic surgery patients whose lives were restored through reconstructive plastic surgery and whose charitable actions influence the lives around them.
