I've never been very good at asking for help. Creating this campaign is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. For those of you who don't know me, my name is Erin Monks. I'm 38 years old, I have two amazing children, I live in Lawrenceville, GA, and I have diabetes.

I began showing symptoms of diabetes in 2005, but because my symptoms were atypical I didn't get an official diagnosis until 2011. Since then I have done all I can to change my lifestyle and treat my disease, but the six years I spent undiagnosed had already taken its toll. 

The primary side effect of my diabetes has been nutrient mal-absorbtion. What this means is that no matter how much I eat or take supplements my body cant receive the nutrients it needs to thrive. The side effects of this include extreme weight loss, debilitating muscle cramps, anemia, blood infections, weakened immune systems, etc. I have suffered from all of these and more, but the most damaging by far stems from my inability to absorb calcium. 

To be blunt, my mouth is dying. Without calcium my teeth and bones started to deteriorate, and although I took supplements and maintained meticulous oral hygiene my jaw bone has eroded and my teeth are beginning to fall out. I'm not a particularly vain person; this is not about cosmetics. As a result of my oral issues I am in constant pain, I am unable to eat most foods, and I am beginning to experience other health problems that stem from living with a poisoned mouth. I need help, and I need it now.

I have found a dentist who will perform the necessary surgeries at a discounted rate, but even with the discount I don't have the money for the procedure. The total amount that I need is $6700. I can provide a breakdown of the costs to anyone who would like one. Anything you can do to help is appreciated. Thank you so much. 

You can also find my Facebook campaign at: https://www.facebook.com/donate/10158933039125271/