Hi, my name is Amber, and I’m writing this on behalf of my dear friend Sarah and her daughter, Charley.

Back in October, Charley was told she needed a root canal. Sarah is covered through the Health Plan Partnership Denti-Cal program, and while the insurance does cover some dental work, getting proper treatment has been anything but easy.

It took months just to find a dentist willing to do the procedure under her insurance. When she finally did, the dentist submitted the care plan—but the type of crown he recommends isn’t covered. It’s a stronger crown with a metal base, which is necessary because the affected tooth is a back tooth that takes a lot of pressure. The insurance only covers a cheaper alternative that the dentist—and two others Sarah consulted—said simply won’t hold up.

Sarah appealed, hoping the insurance would reconsider. They didn’t. They suggested using the lower-quality crown, but no dentist is willing to stand behind that kind of work—not for a tooth that needs to last.

The crown Charley needs costs $1,700, and she needs two in total—one is urgent, the other is needed soon. Sarah’s goal is to raise enough to get both done with the right crowns. But if she can’t raise the full amount, she wants to at least take care of the most urgent one as soon as possible.

The dental office has offered a 10% discount if paid in full—but even with the discount, it’s more than Sarah can afford right now. They offered her a loan, but like so many families, Sarah just can’t take on that kind of debt.

That’s why we’re asking for help.

If you’re able to donate—even just a few dollars—you’ll be making a real difference in Charley's life. And if you can’t donate, sharing this story would mean so much.

No one should have to wait for critical care, especially a young girl with her whole life ahead of her. Let’s help get Charley out of pain and back to smiling.

With heartfelt thanks,

Amber