Grace's Medical Costs

I met Grace's husband George two years ago after school. He was looking for help with English. One of his daughters attended kindergarten at our school In Santee, California.  Twice a week he came even though he had two jobs. He always brought me the most delicious food from his wife, Grace, to say thanks.
    One day, after we had been meeting for a few months and we started to know one another, he said, " If I ever won the Lottery, I would get my wife a new face." She was injured severely all over her face and she didn't go outside. 
   After George passed his courses and got a better job, we stayed in touch to wish each other's family the best of the Christmas seasons and Holy Week in the Spring. I always thought about what he said.  A young couple with two small little girls and a wife that wouldn't step outside. 
    There's this TV show that repairs people's faces that was advertising for new applicants. With George and his wife's permission, I applied on her behalf. Never heard back. Started an email and telephone campaign. Internet research. My own dermatologist, Dr. Bushman in La Mesa, California, gave us direction. Suggested adding emotional support- might be in order due to the severity. My friend Sarah from Bend said crowdfunding would bring in revenue. 
    Fast forward to November 5th, 2016 officiating at a dear friend's (the lovely inside and out, Sarah). Kathy, her mom, mentions the home we're at is a close friend and a laser dermatologist! I pounced rudely but Kathy, such a good soul, understood. A long journey just came together. Met Lillian, warm and confident, she said they could help Grace!
   January 7 th, 2017 I met Grace for the first time. We had coffee at her home before the drive to the doctor. We were both excited and nervous. We filled out all the paper work, drivers license, social security cards and I realised she and her husband were here with every "i dotted and t crossed."  Cosmetic Laser Dermatology on Genesee Ave in University City and Dr. Sabrina Fabi, so efficient, patient, and kind, listened and Grace's whole story came out. Traumatically injured at five years old in the ongoing wars in Iraq - thirteen surgeries later,  skin grafts from behind her ears for eyebrows and her thighs to give her a forehead and cheeks. Tattoos. It went on. Dr. Fabi gave us a huge discount after hearing the situation. Marie, our case nurse, explained everything so thoroughly and has kept in touch. People like this exist on this earth! Feel so humbled and happy. Twenty years ago the science did not exist to help her...

It does now!

On the way back home, Grace hung tightly onto her treatment portfolio. Then she asked me why?  Our ability to speak each other's language didn't make it easy but I tried. It feels right. A man who loves his wife and has the will but not the way to help her be happier. We're all the same in so many ways. We all laugh and cry and our kids drive us nuts. And some scars don't show like hers.

The price tag for erbium CO2  laser resurfacing , prior and post treatment ( under $7000) and housework/childcare while she recovers ($1000). 

Grace said if it happens, in one year she wants to go out on a date with her husband....

   I am a teacher, mother, two adult children currently serving in our armed forces,  and a former dependent of a career naval officer. I go fly fishing every year up in the northwest and keep a strong belief in basic human goodness. 

  Please find it in your hearts to help. 

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology