Prior to undergoing an amazing face transplant — this young man’s life drastically changed after he attempted to take his own life, shooting himself in the face.
From Yuba City, California — Cameron Underwood went a life-altering reconstruction operation back in January on his face and the results, which have recently been revealed, are mind-blowing.
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A 26-year-old welder, Cameron, attempted on June 2016 to shoot himself in the face.
He lost most of his lower jaw along with his nose and all of his teeth aside from one.
Additionally, his palate and maxillary region were severely damaged.
Cameron then found Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez after a more conventional surgical approach was not working as well as he would have liked.
Dr.Rodriguez works in Manhattan at NYU Langone Health.
The operation involved over 100 medics who spent over 25 hours working to ensure Cameron’s face was just so.
In New York, Cameron shared at a press conference yesterday the following:
“I am so grateful to have a face transplant because it gives me a second chance at life. Even though I’m still recovering and gaining back sensation and mobility, mostly with my lips, I’m still very happy with the results. I have a nose, and a mouth so I’m able to smile, to speak and eat solid foods again.”
Dr. Rodriguez shared: “For all of us it’s really remarkable to be a part of this and make this happen.
“There’s no way we could have ever taken him back to a normal life without a face transplant.”
Cameron waited close to six months to find a donor.
The donor was a 23-year-old, aspiring writer and filmmaker, William Fisher who died last year on New Year’s Eve following his battle with mental illness.
William’s mother, Sally, shared in a statement the following about her son becoming a donor:
“My son’s death was a tragedy. I am thankful that, in honoring his decision, we were able to give life to others, and especially that Will and Dr. Rodriguez have given Cameron and his family a chance to recapture their dreams.”
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“Being a part of this experience has been a source of strength for me during a very difficult time. I don’t think I would have survived Will’s death if not for Cameron. Cameron has his whole life ahead of him – and I love the idea that Willie is helping him have a better life.”
Cameron added: “I’d like to say that there have been so many amazing advances in surgery. I’m living proof of that. But it only happens because of special people like Will and his family.”
If you are having distressing feelings and want to talk to someone, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at any time at 1-800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
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