My name is Kimberly, and this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write.  
I never thought I’d be in a place where I had to ask strangers for help, but I don’t know what else to do. If you’re reading this, thank you. It means more than you know.

I’ve spent my whole life surviving things most people never see. I grew up in abuse, and it followed me into adulthood. My ex‑husband was extremely abusive and is now in prison. Because of what he did to me, I can’t have no more children. I’ve carried that pain quietly for years, trying to stay strong for my kids and now my grandbaby.

In July of 2024, I was hospitalized after being drugged and assaulted. I went home with a catheter, and my 19‑year‑old son had to take care of me. While I was recovering, I fell asleep, and my dog accidentally destroyed my top dentures. I kept the pieces, but they can’t be fixed. I haven’t had dentures since.

And that one moment changed everything.

Without teeth, I’ve lost weight because eating is painful. I avoid mirrors because I don’t recognize myself. People judge me instantly — they think I’m a drug addict, and I’m not. I’ve lost job opportunities because of how I look. I don’t have insurance, and the cost of dentures in my area is around $1,500, which feels impossible for me right now.

I’m 39 years old, a mother and a grandmother, and I feel myself disappearing from the world. I hide my face. I hide from people. My depression has gotten worse. I just want to feel human again. I want to smile without covering my mouth. I want to work. I want to show up for my life.

I know times are hard for everyone. I know there are people who need help just as much as I do. But if anyone is able to donate — even a dollar — it would bring me one step closer to getting my smile back, my confidence back, my life back.

Thank you for reading my story. Thank you for seeing me. Your kindness, even just your time, means more than I can ever explain.