Imagine losing the ability to open your mouth.

Something most people do without a second thought has become a daily struggle for me.

My name is Kathryn, and I’m fighting for the chance to open my mouth, eat normally, and live with less pain again.

In 1993, a devastating car accident crushed my face and changed my life forever. I underwent extensive facial reconstruction, and eventually, my right jaw joint was replaced with an artificial prosthesis.

More than 20 years later, that replacement joint is failing.

To make matters worse, I’ve developed a condition called ankylosis. Abnormal bone has grown around my replacement joint, attaching it to my skull and severely restricting my ability to open my mouth.

My natural left jaw joint has also deteriorated.

Today, I can barely open my mouth.

I can’t enjoy a normal meal. Yawning, talking, smiling, and even basic dental care have become painful challenges.

I rely on blended soups, smoothies, and nutritional drinks because chewing is no longer something my jaw can manage.

After three years of searching for a surgeon willing and able to take on my complicated case, I finally found someone who believes he can help.

My upcoming surgery will involve replacing my failing right jaw prosthesis with a custom-made joint, removing the abnormal bone attached to my skull, and using tissue from my abdomen to help prevent the bone from growing back. My left jaw will also require surgery in an effort to preserve the natural joint.

But now I’m facing another enormous obstacle: the cost.

My surgeon has estimated $24,502 for the procedure alone.

That estimate doesn’t include every additional expense, including anesthesia and the specialist needed to remove the bone attached to my skull.

I’m still waiting for answers from my insurance companies about what they will cover. Until those decisions are made, I have to prepare for the possibility of substantial out-of-pocket expenses.

Living on disability, I simply cannot afford these costs on my own.

Donations will help with surgical expenses, medical bills related to this procedure, prescriptions, recovery supplies, transportation, follow-up care, and the special liquid nutrition I need before and after surgery.

I’m not asking for a miracle. I’m asking for a chance.

A chance to sit down and enjoy a meal with my family.

A chance to yawn without fear of excruciating pain.

A chance to speak, smile, and open my mouth without constantly thinking about how much it’s going to hurt.

A chance to reclaim some of the everyday freedoms I’ve slowly lost.

I know times are difficult for so many people, and asking for financial help is not something that comes easily to me.

But even a $5 or $10 donation can help move me closer to my goal.

And if donating isn’t possible, sharing my story could help it reach someone who can.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping me fight to open my mouth again.

Lizabeth Springer

Michelle Reed

Anonymous

Dan Krupinski

Tammy Leuthauser

Brian Steele

Larry Cerutti

Anne Earney

Cynthia Callahan

Cathy Just

Christine Creamer

Todd Litzau

Angela Stanley

Racquel Rudd

Theresa McKnight

Support Kathryn's Fight to Open Her Mouth Again

Support Kathryn's Fight to Open Her Mouth Again

Still $2,605 to go. Help us build momentum.