Continued
Carmen did survive, but she bears significant scars. She lost an ear and hearing on one side. Blind for 2 years following the attack, she had two cornea transplants, however post-surgery complications caused vision loss in one eye. Now legally blind, she can see colors and vague, blurred outlines, but no details.
Still, over the four years since the incident Carmen has made steady progress. No longer able to work, she has begun to accept public speaking engagements in which she tells her personal story, including her belief in the value of forgiveness. Pending the location of a suitable donor, she will likely have the chance to undergo progressive facial transplant surgery to partially restore facial features including her eyelids, nose and lips.
Carmen Tarleton told her story on a recent episode of The Doctors TV Show which aired on Thursday, 10/27/11. While putting the show – titled ‘The Face of Courage’ – together, producers contacted MaxiAids, who donated a gift basket of assistive products, along with a several hundred dollar shopping spree, which Carmen can use to shop for more products to support her progress towards greater independence.
On the show, host Dr. Travis Stork explained that Carmen “has a lot of expenses, but not many resources”, so a fund was set up for her through the Dr. Phil Foundation. Anyone wishing to make a donation may go to thedoctorstv.com and click on Carmen's story.
About MaxiAids:
MaxiAids Products for Independent Living is an industry-leading supplier of products for seniors as well as those in the various special needs communities, including the blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, arthritic, diabetic and those with mobility challenges. Visit www.MaxiAids.com or call 1-800-522-6294 for more information or to order a free catalog.