About a month and a half ago, I experienced something that changed my life in ways I never expected. An insecure coworker, feeling threatened, caused a scene at work and assaulted me without warning. The result was a broken tooth—a physical injury that has followed me everywhere I go, whether I’m at work, out in public, or at home. Since that night, I’ve struggled to recognize myself in the mirror. My confidence has taken a huge hit, and I find myself withdrawing from friends, family, and even my professional life. The emotional toll has been just as heavy as the physical one, and I think about that night every day, wondering what I could have done differently, even though I know I didn’t start, insinuate, or instigate the situation. The missing tooth is a constant reminder of an embarrassing night I can’t get back, and it’s affected every part of my life.

I’m reaching out for help because I need dental care—a crown procedure—to save what’s left of my tooth. This isn’t just about fixing my smile; it’s about reclaiming my confidence and reconnecting with the person I used to be. Every and any penny counts and is gratefully appreciated to recover what was once a million-dollar-smile. To smile as brightly as I used to would be a tearfully wonderful dream. Your support would mean the world to me as I work to heal, both inside and out.