TROIS-RIVIERES, QUE.

Mathieu Blais has waited 10 years for his new face.

Blais suffers from Crouzon Syndrome, a hereditary genetic disease that causes major deformations in the cranium, head and face. The skull bones of a normal baby close together over time, but a child with Crouzon Syndrome is born with the bones already welded together. It’s characterized by a widening of the distance between the eyes, a receding of the upper jaw and forehead and dental problems. In severe cases, the deformities can cause respiratory issues, blindness or mental disabilities.

Blais has had surgeries since he was three years old, yet the signs of his illness are still prevalent. On Jan. 28, he will undergo a new series of operations that won’t just change his appearance but will help him breathe and swallow better.

"It will be like I never had the syndrome," said the 19-year-old.

Blais’ mother says that he’s often been rejected by his peers because of his experience.

"He doesn’t really have friends," explained his mother, Helene Proulx.

Proulx has no doubt that her son’s life will change after all the procedures are completed.

"Mathieu has experienced rejection and illness," she said. "I think this will end the rejection and help him integrate socially."

Blais, who lives with Proulx, is hoping that he will soon be able to live independently. He already has one auditory implant to help his hearing, and another will soon be installed.

While most of Blais’ surgeries are paid for by the government, his dental operations have come out of pocket. He’s grateful for the support he’s received from the local community, which helped his mother raise over $2,000 to pay for those operations.