Patrick Hardison suffered third-degree burns in 2001 while rescuing a woman from a house fire. “He endured third-degree burns to his face, scalp, and upper body,” leaving him disfigured. For years, Patrick hid behind a baseball cap, sunglasses, and prosthetic ears. Despite dozens of surgeries, he struggled with pain and public stares.
In 2015, Patrick became the first American to receive a face transplant. The groundbreaking surgery, led by Dr. Eduardo D. Rodriguez, lasted 26 hours and involved over 100 medical professionals. “Patrick’s new face came from David Rodebaugh, a 26-year-old who had died in a bike accident.”

David’s mother, Nancy Millar, made the selfless choice to donate her son’s face. Patrick later said, “She made a decision that saved my life.” The transplant gave Patrick more than a new face; it restored his ability to eat, blink, and smile.

Patrick’s journey is a testament to courage and hope. “His life became a daily battle with public stares and pain,” but the transplant gave him a second chance. Now, he works to inspire others facing their own struggles, showing what’s possible through resilience and generosity.