Hi, my name is Stacie Jensen. I am 37 years old. I am a loving mother of 3 miracle babies (2 of whom are special needs), wife of 5 years to my husband, Dilan, and currently a dedicated employee of Chick-fil-A.

I am in need of financial help to support me and my family as I get full mouth reconstructive implant dental surgery at the Solace Oral Surgery Center in Nashville, TN.

This surgery will change my entire life for the better and give me back the confidence, my smile, and love of the theatre that has been taken away.

I’ve had many hardships to overcome in my life as well as some silver linings. Some of the hardships are as follows, but others are too traumatic to even talk about:

1. At 13 months old, I ingested drain cleaner and almost died. I had 33 abdominal surgeries at Riley’s Hospital. 90% of my intestine was removed, and I was left with a condition called Short Bowel Syndrome. It’s imperative I chew my food well to absorb as many nutrients as possible.

2. At the age of 7, my gallbladder was removed, and as a result, I have GERD (chronic acid reflux), which has done damage to my teeth.

3. My first trip to the dentist was at age 15 due to a severe abscessed tooth. I have always had an extreme fear of the dentist because of this traumatic experience.

4. I excelled in school and fell in love with singing and performing arts. I attended IU and graduated with a degree in Theatre Performance. I also earned an actor's certificate from the Moscow Art Theatre in Russia. I served one year in the AmeriCorps program teaching theatre at schools through the Robinson Community Learning Center at ND.

5. My life completely fell apart about 10 years ago after a devastating breakup. I spiraled into a deep depression. I lost my home, my medical insurance and was not able to continue with the necessary iron and B-12 infusions. My teeth have continued to deteriorate since then.

6. Because of the condition of my teeth, I have not wanted to smile. I have lost my self-esteem, my career in theatre that I was passionate about, and my ability to eat and digest properly. My overall health has been compromised.

7. When I was younger, my mother passed away. In the last year, I have sadly lost both my father and sister. They were a big support to me, and I miss them dearly.

8. The silver linings are that I’ve been happily married for 5 years, and I have 3 beautiful children (after many years of infertility and 4 miscarriages). My children are the love of my life, and I would do anything for them. Our oldest is 3 and has been diagnosed with severe non-verbal autism. Our second child is almost completely deaf and may someday get cochlear implant surgery. Our youngest daughter is precious but cries a lot. My husband and I have had to adapt our career goals and work schedules to care for them full-time. They need constant care. They need developmental therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. We will begin taking sign language classes to help communicate. I also attend parenting classes at the Women’s Care Center. I do not regret one moment, and I’m willing to sacrifice anything to be their mother.

I’m doing this surgery as much for them as for myself. I want to show them to pursue their dreams and not let hardships keep them down.

After this reconstructive surgery, I will be able to smile again. I would love to rekindle my career in the performing arts, using my college degree, and gain my self-esteem back. In addition, I will be able to properly chew my food.

I’m asking for moral and emotional support and, if possible, financial support. Your generous donation will help to cover travel expenses to Nashville, childcare, and time off work for both my husband and me during the procedure and recovery time. This will be a challenging time as we live paycheck to paycheck, but I’m positive it will be all worth it once it’s done. Any support is appreciated, and I thank you for your prayers.