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Help Ricki Gain Confidence in her Smile

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On September 3rd of this year (2019), my undeniably strong sister Erica J – Mostly known as Ricki suffered a terrible accident during an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) excursion on the island of St Marteen while on a birthday cruise celebration.   Erica was a passenger on the vehicle to a friend driving, unfortunately the driver made a sharp turn which resulted in Erica’s body flying through the air and landing on her face.

Unfortunately, Erica was injured in the accident.  She was rushed to ships medical center to be treated and inspected. Sadly – Erica lost the top three front teeth (Incisors), chipped some of the bottom front teeth, and endured some cuts and swelling to the upper body and face. Upon notification – we arranged for Erica to come back to the U.S.  Erica arrived in New York early 9/5 where she is being further examined and treated by Dr.Nahavandi at Brite Star Dental, Queens Village NY and Dr. Behzadi, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York City.

 

My amazing Ricki Picki (Erica) is a strong pillar and mentor in her church, St. Joseph’s located in Jamaica Queens and community. She is a part of the Gospel Choir there as well. She is due to complete her Bachelors by spring 2020. She tutors local Middle and High school students - ensuring that her students excel in Mathematics.  Erica just got married two month ago to a wonderful supportive man. She is a great friend to all and even a better “Stistah” to me. Life is so interesting – although I’m older, I aspire to be like her one day. Words cannot explain why she is my “Best” person on earth. Ricki is one of the people you can always count on. She is Godly, sensitive, sweet, smart, kind, incredibly caring, funny, generous, exuberant, humble, and forgiving. She is the light in the darkness. STRONG is an understatement for what and who she is, she hasn’t even cried yet. I think I cried enough for all of us. Ricki is that person who will bend over backwards for a complete stranger – so I “Keiana” one of her sisters - are asking you to do the same for this daughter, wife, sister, relative, friend, co –worker, and complete stranger.






As you can imagine – the cost of Implants and Medical examinations and procedure incurs many expenses. The implants are not covered by Health insurance as this is a cosmetic
Procedure. Erica is scheduled to get an X-ray, CT scan, and MRI.  Erica has paid over $2,000 for a Dental Flipper for the three missing teeth, root canals, and repairing of the bottom teeth. The Dental Flipper is only temporary which will arrive in the next coming days. We have chosen to go with the less costly cosmetic repairs called a “Fixed Bridge” which cost $2,500 per tooth totaling to $7,500.00. This procedure cannot be done until her gums have healed. Dr. Nahavandi estimates 2- 4 weeks until she can have her new smile.




 Unfortunately, Erica cannot work remotely and will be out of work for a short period.  Between the medical and dental bills – I’m asking that you help my sister defray some of her cost.  Funds raised will be turned over Erica to help with the medical and dental bills and if any are left over – she will donate that money to Gofundme accounts who are in similar situations like hers.  I am hopeful that she will have confidence in her smile that she once had.



Whether you contribute financially or not, please pray and send positive thoughts to Erica at this time. And if you can, please:

1)      Give whatever you can. Any donation can make a difference.

2)      Share on social media.  Please use the hashtag #SmilesForRicki

3)      Email this page to your family and friends

We are so grateful that the outcome of this accident did not end in tragedy.

On behalf of Erica J , Erica O (Mother), Luis (Husband), and Keiana (Sister)

Thank you soooo much!
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