In August 2015 Mr Hardison
received a historic operation which saw his burned face peeled off and replaced
with that of 26-year-old New York cyclist David Rodebaugh.
The American firefighter
given a face transplant one year ago has described how he now feels like
"a normal guy".
Patrick Hardison, 42, from
Senatobia, Mississippi, was badly injured when he ran into a burning house to
rescue a woman in 2001.
His face was burned beyond
recognition when the roof of the house collapsed on top of him.
Speaking at a news
conference to mark the first anniversary of the 26-hour operation, Mr Hardison
said: "I'm here today because I want others to see that there is hope
beyond the injury.
"I'm especially proud
to share my story with other injured firefighters, first responders and US
military.
"If sharing my story
helps just one person explore the possibility of face transplants, then it's
worth it."
Mr Hardison, surrounded by
his wife and children, went on: "I guess you all want to know how I am
doing. Well, I'm happy to tell you I'm doing great.
"I like to say that
I'm the same old Pat, but that would not give enough credit to the amazing
journey that I have gone through over the past year.
"The road to recovery
has been long and hard, but if I had the opportunity to do it again, I would in
a heartbeat."
He said how he can now
enjoy activities with his family again.
"My family and I took
a trip to Disney World this past June and I swam in the pool with my children
for the first time in 15 years," he said.
He told how his new eyelids
and ability to blink meant his sight had improved and he could drive a car once
more. He said he was sleeping more soundly as well.
"It's just
great," he said.
"No more stares from
strangers. I'm pretty much back to being a normal guy, doing normal activities.
"My life has changed
and it has been renewed."
He thanked his medical team
of more than 100 doctors, nurses and support staff who were involved in the
transplant at the NYU Langone Medical Centre in New York City and where he has
had several follow-up procedures.
He continues to have
monthly check-ups and will remain on immune suppressants for the rest of his life.
Glory be to God
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