We all know the immediate impact of a cancer diagnosis, but cancer survivors often have to deal with the lingering impact of being a survivor. Such is the case for Cody Cohen, who has been handed way more than any one young person should have to deal with. As a result of Cody's experience with bone marrow cancer (diagnosed just one month before his 18th birthday, in the middle of his senior year in high school) and graft versus host disease, he has unfortunately had many, many nasty chemicals put into his body to kill the cancer and then to fight off the GVHD (a dangerous complication of bone marrow transplant). These chemicals have caused a multitude of issues for Cody, a major one being the death of his teeth. On March 12, nearly 12 years after his first bone marrow transplant in 2023, Cody underwent major oral surgery in which the oral surgeon removed all of his top teeth for a "full arch denture" — basically a full top jaw of implants, as well as having four individual implants placed in the bottom. (In two previous minor oral surgeries, most of his bottom teeth were removed and bone grafts were placed to provide a foundation for implants.) For the privilege of having teeth that allow him to eat what he wants to eat and what he needs to eat to get proper nutrition, Cody will need to pay about $37,000, as this surgery is not covered by private, for-profit health insurance.

In spite of the seemingly relentless challenges, Cody and his family continue to focus on all of the blessings and joy in their lives — and the fact that Cody is still with them. Please help me help them ease the financial burden that is heaped on top of this wonderful family! Every contribution, no matter how small, will help ease their burden.