Hi,

My name is Keniesha, a 40-year-old mother of 2 toddlers. I am establishing a fundraiser to help with my out-of-pocket medical expenses. I was diagnosed with a tumor called Ameloblastoma. Ameloblastoma is a rare, noncancerous (benign) tumor that develops most often in the jaw near the molars. It begins in the cells that form the protective enamel lining on your teeth. For me it has now grown to the point where the only option I have is to undergo a major surgery which includes the reconstruction of my jaw. The procedure is scheduled for early November and will last approximately 10 hrs. They will use a bone from my foot to reconstruct the jaw and I will be fed through a tube for 6 weeks. The expected recovery time is expected to take approximately 8 weeks.

My Journey with Ameloblastoma

In 2016, I started to feel a pain in my gum during the nights, I didn't think much of it. A few weeks after I scheduled my dental appointment for a routine checkup and cleaning. I informed the dentist of the excruciating pain I was feeling on the section of my mouth. He thought it was normal, however I told him it could not be, so he ordered a biopsy to be done. When the results came back, I was devastated to find out was a tumor, my heart sunk. On the brighter side they informed me that it was benign and its nothing I would have to worry about.

I took it just as they said, a tumor that wouldn't affect me and could possibly go away. I did my research and thought they must be right because I look nothing like the photos on google. I am an optimist; I could be one of the lucky ones where it would just disappear right? After the biopsy and medication, the pain went away, I honestly thought I was in the clear.

In 2020, while pregnant with my first child I noticed my gum kept getting bigger and looked swollen in the same area, but it didn't hurt. I still thought "you’re okay". I ignored and kept doing my day-to-day activities, working, and balancing motherhood. During my second pregnancy, 2 years later I noticed my teeth started to spread and the gum felt so weak and tender. It felt like I could literally pull my teeth out. At this point I started to feel depressed and overwhelmed, I was now so bothered and aware that this is a bigger issue. I found out that hormones had a major effect on this type of tumor, hence the reason it stared to grow rapidly within that short period.

I have cried many days and nights and asked, "why me?" but my faith is now bigger than my worries. My 2 beautiful children need me to be the best version of myself. I have been affected by my physical appearance that I have taken an introvert approach. I stay indoors instead of being the usual social butterfly. I know I need to tackle this monster and I am appealing for your help. Any donation will help tremendously to navigate this journey.

If you know me you know it took a lot from me to share my journey, it is my intention to bring awareness and help others who are struggling like myself so that they can get the required help to overcome.

I am beyond humbled and grateful for any kind of support and help in whichever way possible.