My name is Trisha, and I’m reaching out for help as I work to rebuild my life from the ground up. After hitting rock bottom, I’ve been fighting every day to become a better person and reconnect with the world around me. But there’s one thing that keeps holding me back—my teeth. For 11 years, I’ve felt like a prisoner in my own life because of them. This problem keeps me prisoner in my house, too, and has left me feeling completely alone. No matter how hard I try, as soon as I open my mouth, people judge me. They see my missing teeth and make assumptions, calling me things I’m not. It’s painful, and it’s made it nearly impossible to move forward, find work, or even look people in the eye. I’ve done the hard work to get my glasses, my car, and a home, but now I’m stuck because I can’t afford the dental surgery I need.

I want to be clear that I am not someone who asks for handouts. That’s how impossible my situation has become, and it’s not easy for me to reach out like this. I’m sorry to even have to ask, but I truly have no other options. I need surgery to remove 11 teeth and get dentures, but the cost is far more than I have. I’ve chosen to do without pain medication and am determined to keep moving forward, but I can’t do this part alone. I know I’m not the only one who’s been shamed or judged for something out of their control. If you’ve ever needed a second chance, or felt blocked from moving forward, I hope you’ll understand where I’m coming from. Every bit of support brings me closer to a new beginning, and I would be deeply grateful for any help you can give. Thank you for reading my story and for believing in second chances.