I am Daniella McLaughlin. As a child, I grew up taking care of my teeth and my parents taking me to routine dental appointments. During my teenage years, I was teased for wearing braces, but I longed to have a beautiful, bright smile.
My diagnosis as a young adult with bipolar disease set me on a course of depression and anxiety. Getting established with the diagnosis and “new” way of life led to prolonged moments of not having the will to take care of myself properly. Unfortunately, my lack of proper care of my physical body greatly affected my dental hygiene and interrupted the routine care that I was accustomed to. There were days, weeks, months and years that my disease kept me isolated, confused, anxious and numb. I could not see beyond my circumstances and my actions reflected my state of mind.
Dental health is as important as any other part of your health Don't neglect it.
Today, as a 40+ year old single mother and a 5-time suicide survivor, I am disappointed in myself for neglecting my overall health and, specifically, my dental hygiene.
Today, as a 40+ year old single mother and a 5-time suicide survivor, I am disappointed in myself for neglecting my overall health and, specifically, my dental hygiene. As a motivational speaker who longs to remove the stigma of mental health, I find it difficult to be my authentic self and connect with my audience. As I begin to speak, I am filled with fear and dread as I combat destructive voices in my head ridiculing me and saying that people are not listening because they are horrified by the appearance of my teeth.
My desire is to fill the world with positivity and hope, but I am limited by my appearance. Raising my 13-year old son alone in a stable environment has always been my priority. As such, any excess finances I have are directed towards making sure his needs are taken care of and that we continue to have a place to live and food to eat. I have consulted with other dentists and the approximate cost to fix my smile is $30,000.00.
I so appreciate your consideration and any assistance you can provide. I look forward to your response to my letter and my journey towards a new smile and new life.
Very truly yours,
Daniella McLaughlin
As you can see my teeth need help.
Tooth pain is unfortunately normal.
