Shannon Howell

Talon Wyatt, Shannon’s young adult son, has been through more than anyone should have to face in such a short time. This past year, Talon experienced heartbreaking loss, including the death of his girlfriend in a car accident. As he struggled through deep sadness and depression, his dental health was neglected, and now he is facing a serious emergency. His teeth are cracking and falling apart, and the pain and infections have become constant. Talon has been to the emergency room six times, and twice the family was told the infection was close to becoming septic. Even after continuous rounds of antibiotics, he is still sick and suffering. The pain has become so overwhelming that Talon is unable to work and has had to step away from school for now. The emotional toll has been just as devastating. Talon no longer goes out with friends or talks to girls because he feels embarrassed about his teeth, and his mental health has declined drastically as this crisis continues. Shannon has already paid out of pocket for x-rays and two extractions because Medi-Cal has not been able to provide timely care, and there is no dentist nearby who can see him soon enough. Donations will go directly toward Talon’s most immediate dental needs, including an urgent extraction or root canal, with much more treatment still ahead. Any help at all would mean so much. Shannon truly believes that the love and support of family, friends, and community can help Talon get the care he needs, regain his confidence, and begin to build his life again.