2016 Carmen Tarleton

CARMEN TARLETON

Full Face and Neck Recipient

Age 57 ~ Fairly, VT

Inspirational Speaker and Author

Honored by onelegacy.org

In 2007 Carmen was attacked by her husband. He had splashed her with industrial strength Iye, giving her 3^rd and 4^th degree burns that covered 80 percent of her body.  Carmen lost her sight, eyelids, lips, the ability to breathe, was severely disfigured, and had significant scarring on her neck. She was extremely uncomfortable.  On Valentine’s Day in 2013, Carmen received a full face and neck transplant.  It was the first face transplant in the world that did not have a complete match with the donor. But it gave her a new lease on life. Now, Carmen has a lovely relationship with her donor’s daughter and speaks at organ banks and conferences around the country.

Carmen’s Story

I was attacked by my ex-husband in 2007, he doused me with industrial strength lye.  I was 80 percent burned 3 rd and 4 th degree mostly and completely blind for the first two years.  I was severely disfigured and had significant scarring on my neck.  This left me extremely uncomfortable.  I also did not have eyelids, lips or the ability to breathe from my nose.  I received a full face and neck transplant on Valentine’s Day 2013.  I was the first face transplant in the world that did not have a complete match with my donor.  But I have done extremely well.

I have a lovely relationship with my donors daughter Marinda.  I have been speaking a lot for organ banks around the country and at conferences.

I have a great life now and am forever grateful for my transplant and my Donor Cheryl and her daughter Marinda.