In 2001, John and Mary Jo Canales received the unexpected news during a routine sonogram - their unborn baby, Gray, had no detectable nose. The doctors warned of slim chances of survival and the likelihood of severe complications, including potential brain damage. Despite the challenges, the Canales family decided against terminating the pregnancy, viewing their unborn son as a cherished gift.
Gray Canales was born five weeks premature, presenting with a hole where his nose should be, no eyelids, and multiple issues with his legs and feet. Missing the right frontal lobe of his brain, Gray's left side had partial mobility. Against the odds, he began breathing on his own after just a week in the NICU, defying the dire predictions of the medical team.
Facing Challenges with Faith and Perseverance
From the moment of Gray's birth, John and Mary Jo dedicated themselves to his well-being. The couple exercised his legs, cared for his nasal area, and ensured constant eye lubrication. Gray underwent nearly 30 surgeries, including 11 focused solely on reconstructing his nose. The Canales family, despite facing financial strain due to medical bills, remained steadfast in their commitment to providing Gray with the best upbringing possible.
Gray's tight-knit Christian community played a crucial role in his upbringing. The Canales family, supported by their church, instilled in Gray the importance of perseverance. His parents emphasized that everyone faces challenges, urging him not to feel sorry for himself. Despite the difficulties, Gray emerged as a well-adjusted young man, actively participating in activities such as watching baseball, playing video games, and helping out at his church.
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Gray's journey to reconstruct his nose involved numerous intricate and painful procedures, including cartilage grafts from his ribs, skin from his thighs, and a forehead skin expander. Dr. James Thornton, a reconstructive surgeon at UT Southwestern Medical Center, described the process as "very difficult" and highlighted the rarity of total nasal reconstruction. Gray, now 22, is preparing for the final two nasal surgeries as he looks forward to a future free from constant medical interventions.
"I watch movies with friends, play video games," he said in a story from People. "Nobody has ever treated me differently."
A Future Shaped by Hope and Inspiration
With an indomitable spirit, Gray Canales plans to pursue vocational training with the Texas Workforce Commission, aiming to assist others managing disabilities. Inspired by his late paternal grandfather, a New York-based artist, Gray looks forward to a future where he can finally plan ahead without the interruptions of surgeries.
The Canales family, who have dedicated their time and savings to Gray's well-being, has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the expenses of his ongoing medical journey. Those interested in contributing to Gray's nose reconstruction fund can visit his GoFundMe page.
