03/08/2021
TESTIMONIAL
Dear Dr. Hochman!
"As you well know, the stigma regarding facial deformities is still prevalent, and, even at my age (54) I am appalled at those people, young and old, that stare at those that are different. I still struggle, daily, to regain composure and maintain my dignity, when I look at myself in the mirror, putting on make-up, or brushing my hair or teeth.......and see the reflection of what I am. As a woman, with strong societal pressures to be pretty, it is tough, but I do the best I can, with what I have. After numerous plastic and reconstructive surgeries ranging from infancy to early adulthood, I still am not symmetrical and the "psycho-scarring" will be with me forever.
When I found the Birthmarks site last night and the link to you, I cried. Out of relief to know there are others like me out there. And that there are "special Surgical Angels" like YOU out there to help.
What you do for those children in their formative years, brings them hope, encouragement, positivity, and a sense of "normalcy" when you operate and re-create their features. Especially when you go overseas to help the poverty-stricken, and those without insurance, and also to teach the plastic and reconstructive surgeons there.
My friends like me for my "beauty" within, yet I am insecure often and literally hide behind my blonde mane that purposefully covers the right side of my face where the hemangioma and scars still remain.......
THANK-YOU SINCERELY DR.HOCHMAN for all that you do. You are truly gifted and blessed by God to do His work for those that truly need you and your skills.
You are most welcome to use any or all of what I wrote for your site. And if you wish me to add or remove anything I had written I would have no objection at all. If you wish to use any of this heartfelt email to you I also give my permission, as I feel so strongly about what you do, even though I have never met you.
Godspeed to you, your staff, and those who surround you." TC