Grinfrastructure

In November of 2016, after a year of constant tooth pain and loosening, I had to have 15 teeth extracted. During the next 8 months, I visited the dentist almost weekly, as they shot me full of antibiotics to save my remaining teeth and gums, scouring every remaining bit of infection.
I was fitted with two temporary appliances, akin to retainers, so I would be able to eat (and if, need be, talk and smile in public without scaring people. )
As an interim measure, they were acceptable. But they break, and scraps my gums, and trip my gag reflexes all too often.
Now, my gums are healed, and it's time for a more permanent solution. This means bridgework.
Even with dental insurance, the total cost will be close to $10,000 to address both upper and lower bridges.
I can't do that.
But, I would like to eat sandwiches and crunchy things again, and not have to cut everything up into tiny pieces, and smile without cutting the inside of my mouth.
Asking for money is awkward for me, so I'd like to give something in return.
Here's what's in it for you:
All donations get a personalized, original limerick.
Donations of $75 get that, plus a small, unframed painting or a framed pen&ink abstract.
Whatever you can spare will be welcome.
You can be a part of my mouth!(ok, scratch that tagline).
Fill my mouth! (Nope, scratch that one, too...)
You can make someone, quite literally, smile again. A big smile,
too - not a shy quirk of lips, half covered by a hand.
You can know that every time I take a bite of a sandwich, or look at myself in the mirror without cringing, you will be remembered.
Thank you for listening.
-K