This is not something I would ever usually do, but my heart is truly broken for my cousin, Scarlett.

Just over four weeks ago, Scarlett had a serious accident. While running inside to get out of the cold at her partner’s house, she lost her footing and fell face-first onto a concrete step. The impact caused severe injuries. Her two front teeth were displaced, one tooth was lost, the bone in her mouth was badly damaged, her face was cut, and her nose was broken.

She attended hospital immediately, where doctors were able to force her front teeth back into place and place a temporary wire on her teeth to keep them in place. However, she was told there was a very high chance the teeth would not survive and would eventually need to be removed. Due to her age, she is only 21, the NHS has confirmed it will not fund the dental treatment she now requires.

Last week, the worst was confirmed. Her teeth are dying. Since the accident, Scarlett has already undergone surgery to repair her broken nose and has been left facing extremely difficult decisions about her dental care. The damage is severe, and the treatment options available are simply not affordable for her to fund alone.

This accident has had a huge impact on Scarlett’s mental health, wellbeing, and confidence. She works within the NHS herself, and her smile plays an important role in both her work and her self-esteem. She now needs temporary dentures followed by dental implants. This will be a long and emotionally challenging process of repairing the damage to her face.

This situation has been especially hard for Scarlett, as she has already spent years dealing with dental issues. As a child she had an overbite and wore braces throughout much of her teens and adult life. She had only recently had them removed and was finally feeling confident in her smile. This accident has taken that away from her.

I don’t want this to feel like begging, but I am asking for kindness and support to help Scarlett through this incredibly difficult time. The estimated cost of treatment is £8,000. Any contribution, whether it is £1, £5, £10, or anything you can spare, would mean the world to her and help ease the emotional and financial burden she is carrying.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read, share, or support Scarlett in any way. Every little bit truly helps. ❤️