Artist aids Austintown man with facial deformity

Ursuline Vs. Liberty Union

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AUSTINTOWN — Ed Port’s facial deformity has limited his ability to secure a job, hampered him socially and affected his hearing and sight.

Port was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 2, which causes a growing tumor in his face, when he was 3 or 4.

“Between the ages of 7 and 19, I had 18 to 21 surgeries,” Port, 38, said.

Growth of the tumor has obscured his vision in his left eye, damaged his hearing and led to the removal of part of his jawbone. His health insurance considers the series of surgeries required to correct the problem cosmetic, however, and won’t cover them, Port said.

“What I need to find is a doctor who is capable of doing it, who is willing to do it,” Port said.

He also needs the money to pay for it.

He’s not sure of the cost, but it’s expected to exceed $60,000.

Michael Murphy, 33, a 1993 Boardman High School graduate, is using his artistry to help.

Murphy, an assistant professor at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Ga., has created several portraits of President-elect Barack Obama in various media. One that’s available through Monday morning on eBay uses the shadows cast by 6,400 nails to form the incoming 44th U.S. president’s likeness.

Proceeds from the sale will go to Port.

For the complete story, see Sunday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com