Holly is a 43-year-old single woman living in rural Carteret County, North Carolina, working as the sole attendant at our local county waste disposal site. She’s known by many in our community, though few know the personal challenges she faces each day. Holly has struggled for years with severe gum disease, leaving her teeth in poor condition and her self-esteem deeply affected. If you’ve ever seen her, she rarely smiles, avoids social interaction, and feels embarrassed about her appearance, despite being otherwise healthy and having a beautiful complexion. Her shyness and isolation are a direct result of her dental issues. She spends her days quietly working and returning home, rarely engaging with others.
Recently, a couple of friends and I decided to help Holly get the dental care she desperately needs. After confirming her background and speaking with her and others, we learned she does not now use – nor has she ever used – illegal drugs or even smoked—a misconception some may have due to her dental condition. Holly is eager to begin treatment, and her employer is supportive and willing to adjust her work schedule to accommodate appointments and recovery time. She’s already started the process, with her first teeth extractions completed by a local dentist, but much more work lies ahead, possibly including surgery and full dentures or implants.
Restoring Holly’s smile is about more than just dental health—it’s about giving her the confidence to live fully and pursue new opportunities. With a new smile, Holly could consider further education, like becoming a certified nursing assistant or some other appropriate vocation she may like, and finally feel comfortable engaging with the world around her. We believe in helping those who are marginalized or less fortunate, as we are able. We also believe that supporting Holly will not only change her life, but also inspire others to reach out and lift up others in need. Your support will help Holly reclaim her dignity and confidence, and will open the door to a brighter future for her. If you help someone you know, you’ll feel good about yourself. But if you help someone you don’t know, you’ll feel like a king!
