Fred Saulnier of Penniac, N.B., recalls the harrowing experience of crashing his vehicle into a power pole in 2017, resulting in significant injuries to his face. Despite undergoing reconstructive surgeries over six years in Fredericton, Saulnier considered them failures as he still struggled to breathe properly. Photos showed a swollen mass in the centre of his face from the surgeries, leading him to feel self-conscious and unable to leave his house. Feeling desperate, Saulnier sought help online and found American prosthetics expert and retired Central Intelligence Agency agent Robert Barron, who had been creating prosthetics for those in need for over 22 years.
In 2022, Barron, known for his mastery of making silicone look like skin, welcomed Global News to his office in Virginia. During his time with the CIA, Barron’s disguises had to pass close scrutiny to keep operatives safe. After his retirement, Barron continued using his skills to help others in need. Now at 82 years old, he has changed the lives of domestic violence victims, cancer patients, and crash survivors with his hyper-realistic prosthetics. Barron’s work has brought genuine smiles to those he has helped, leaving them grateful for his life-changing contributions.
Saulnier was thrilled when Barron responded to his email seeking help with his previous unsuccessful surgeries. Barron consulted with Fredericton surgeon Dr. Benjamin Hoyt to remove the work from Saulnier’s face and create a new prosthetic nose for him. During a week-long visit to Virginia in July, Barron crafted, molded, and fitted the new prosthetic for Saulnier. Overjoyed with the results, Saulnier felt like a new man when he saw his reflection in the mirror. Now, he can confidently face the world without worrying about judgment or stares, living his life out of hiding thanks to Barron’s remarkable talent for concealment.
Barron’s dedication to helping others with his prosthetic work has left a lasting impact on the lives of his clients, including Saulnier. Despite his years of service with the CIA, Barron continues to use his skills for altruistic purposes, bringing joy and confidence to those in need. Saulnier’s journey from suffering through failed surgeries to finding hope and transformation through Barron’s expertise is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of a skilled and compassionate individual like Barron.
The success of Saulnier’s prosthetic transformation highlights the importance of finding the right expertise and technology to address complex medical issues. Barron’s ability to create hyper-realistic prosthetics has not only transformed Saulnier’s physical appearance but also restored his confidence, allowing him to live his life to the fullest. By sharing Saulnier’s story, Global News hopes to raise awareness about the transformative power of prosthetics and the skilled professionals like Barron who dedicate their talents to improving the lives of others.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Barron, Dr. Hoyt, and Saulnier showcases the profound impact of skilled professionals in the field of prosthetics. Saulnier’s journey from a traumatic accident and unsuccessful surgeries to finding hope and transformation through Barron’s prosthetic work is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Barron’s continued dedication to helping others and his ability to create life-like prosthetics have changed the lives of many, including Saulnier, who now lives his life with renewed confidence and joy, thanks to the expertise and compassion of Barron.
