SAN FRANCISCO -- Anyone can find themselves in a life-threatening situation a nurse, a Marine, a student but who has the strength to survive let alone the energy to think about others? Devastating illness, injury, or deformity results in life-altering reconstructive plastic surgery for hundreds of thousands of people, yet only a few have the determination to get beyond their own dilemma and step up to help others. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) will present the Patients of Courage: Triumph Over Adversity awards to four inspirational patients - whose lives were restored through reconstructive plastic surgery, and whose charitable actions influence the lives around them - during Plastic Surgery 2006 on Saturday, Oct. 7, at 4:30 p.m. at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco.

Plastic surgeons restore lives by performing reconstructive surgery on patients suffering from illness, injury or disease that range in scope from "routine" to potentially fatal. ASPS Member Surgeons treat patients of courage every day, each with a unique and remarkable tale of overcoming adversity.

"The courage and determination these patients demonstrate is awe-inspiring. Rather than looking at the challenges they face as an obstacle, they transform these challenges into a catalyst to educate and assist others," said ASPS President Bruce Cunningham, MD. "Their stories reveal the amazing accomplishments made possible by the special bond between patients and plastic surgeons."

Lillie Shockney, 52, of Baltimore, was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent mastectomy in both breasts. Lillie initially postponed reconstruction; however, with the introduction of the DIEP flap reconstruction, Lillie realized the benefits it could bring her and multitudes of women. Whether she is writing books, testifying to Congress, founding the organization Mothers Supporting Daughters with Breast Cancer, Lillie is an outspoken advocate and educator for b
'"/>

Contact: Brian Hugins
media@plasticsurgery.org
847-228-9900
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
7-Oct-2006