Dr. Andrew Jacono gives hope to victims in “Facing Trauma”

Barb Oates

13 years ago

Bring your Kleenex to the premiere of Discovery Fit & Health’s new series Facing Drama Wednesday (Oct. 26) at 10pm ET. The series shares the true stories of women who have been left disfigured (primarily on their face) as a result of some violent circumstance. Their angel is Dr. Andrew Jacono, a world-class New York facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, who has dedicated a portion of his practice to pro bono work that helps victims of devastating acts of domestic violence and crime, as well as senseless accidents.

Although graphic in times in retelling the circumstances that led to each victim’s extensive injuries, the work of Jacono is truly miraculous as cameras capture the surgical consultations and methodology behind the reconstructive process. Jacono’s passion for his patients translates into an inspirational journey of recovery for some very brave women. In addition to Jacono’s work, the series also features the expertise of Dr. Janet E. Taylor who is a licensed clinical psychiatrist who serves as a life coach.

Tomorrow’s episode (Oct. 26) shares the stories of Alyssa and Kateshia. Alyssa, an outgoing teen from Ohio, saw no harm in going to a concert without telling her parents. That evening a drunk driver nearly took her life. She survived the accident but the right side of her face was severely disfigured. Kateshia, from North Carolina, was not only a witness to her brother Tony’s death but was also left with severe facial scars.

Their stories, as well as the stories of the women listed below, are filled with strength, courage and kindness, as Jacono uses his compassion and expertise to help them rebuild their lives.
Nov. 2 at 10pm Mary/Haly: Mary, from Texas, was nearly killed from a gunshot wound when her once happy relationship turned violent. Haley, a middle schooler from Mississippi, survived being run over by a car driven by her step brother, and was left with both physical and emotional scarring.

Nov. 9 at 10pm Sharon/Christine: Sharon, from Oregon, survived a brutal attack by her jealous and controlling husband but was left with horrific scars to her face. Christine, from New York, was doused with dangerous chemicals that burned off the skin from more than half of her body.

Nov. 16 at 10pm Brittany/Shakeera: Brittany, from Nebraska, survived a terrifying attack on Halloween night that had a mysterious connection to her abusive father. Shakeera, a young mom from New Jersey, was able to save her son’s life from a brutal attack by the child’s father but was left with severe facial injuries.

Nov. 23 at 10pm Evelyn/Ashley: Evelyn, from Uganda, was injured by a bomb that destroyed her mouth and distorted her ability to speak. Ashley, from Oregon, was shot in the back by her ex-husband.