Making a Dent- Oral Care Kits

“It’s cancer”. Every day I am so grateful these words have never been said to me; however, 1 out of 2 Canadians will hear them in their lifetime. On June 1, 2017 my mother did. Her world and the world of our family, fell apart. Sadly, she passed away three months later from complications of pancreatic cancer. The fight was hard, tiring and could have been more expensive but luckily, she had the love and support of her family and access to free services and supplies from cancer charities. I believe cancer doesn’t render us powerless. We have the power to help make the journey one of comfort and dignity. I’m not a doctor, but a dental hygienist who believes I can at least have an impact on the oral health of those suffering from cancer, like my mom. Along with taking care of your body you have to take care of your teeth and gums. Taking care of them while going through treatment is very important. My objective is to provide dental care kits that meet the oral needs of cancer patients, which is especially important when receiving chemotherapy/radiation treatments. As a result, I recently started a not-for-profit called Making a Dent. These FREE kits contain various products to help with common side effects of treatment such as extreme dry mouth, mouth sores, bleeding gums and cavities. Also included are written instructions on how to take care of your teeth and gums when first diagnosed, during and after treatment. In the majority of cancer cases, there is life after cancer. Ideally, patients who care for their teeth and gums increase their chances of having a healthy mouth long after treatment that their family dentist and hygienist can help maintain.

I have given a few of these kits to my patients that are dealing with cancer. The genuine gratitude they showed for such a small gesture, was priceless! Unfortunately, the cost of the kits keeps me from being able to provide this gift to so many others. With your help, I can provide these kits to even more cancer patients in our community.

I NEED YOUR HELP. I am asking you for donations. The cost of making each kit is $30, however with the donation from several dental companies, the cost of each kit is just under $13. Any donation is welcome but each $12 donation buys an entire kit and a business card or donors name included on the outside of the case (if desired).  

Cancer is tough. Cancer is complicated. Cancer is expensive. The loss of my mom was the saddest thing I have ever experienced. Cancer patients need support during this scary and lonely time. Wouldn’t it be nice to know you made a difference in a stranger’s life? Someday that stranger could be you.