Diane’s story

When Diane M. “discovered cocaine” in her 40’s, she said she “became an instant addict. It destroyed my life.” In the process, she ruined the blood supply into her sinuses, which caused a lot of infections, difficulties with breathing, and the collapse of her nose from the outside.

Diane’s life changed when she went to Central City Concern for recovery services. “A couple of years into recovery”, a referral coordinator there connected her to Project Access NOW. In March 2008, Diane underwent a surgery at OHSU with Dr. Michael Kim, and received follow-up care from Dr. Christian Stallworth.

“It changed my life,” Diane said. “I thought the surgery would rebuild my nose and I’d get my health back. Both of those things did happen. What I didn’t realize was how not having a deformed face would improve my self esteem. I am a new person.”

After the procedure, Diane’s family and friends said they didn’t really notice how she looked. She said, “I thought they were just being nice. I don’t look like my old self. In fact, I’ve kind of forgotten the way I looked. Now I look normal.”

Reflecting on her experience with Project Access, Diane said, “After filling out the initial forms, it was like miracles kept happening. Everything took place with no stress or worries on my part. It was a miracle, I just don’t have any other way to explain it. They changed my life in every way, and I am very grateful to the people at Project Access and to anyone who’s helping to fund it.”

(October 2010)