Hello everyone, my name is Alexis and I'm a 22-year-old college student here to share a personal journey that has been weighing heavily on my heart. You know, sometimes life throws us curveballs we never saw coming. Like when I was younger, dealing with severe bullying leading to an unexpected diagnosis of depression, anxiety, and PTSD at such a young age. It's like you're trying to catch up in school while also battling personal battles no one should have to face. During those times, my mental health got so bad that I neglected my dental heath. I neglected regular check-ups for years out of embarrassment and didn’t brush because of my mental health battles. But now, things are really hitting home. I've got some serious dental work I am dealing with now that I can no longer ignore. Crowns, bridges, root canals, and fillings. And here’s where you come in, your support could make all the difference! It feels surreal to think about how much my future hangs in the balance right now at such a young age.

This has me in the dilemma of chasing my dream of becoming a victim advocate and graduating next year, my calling from God, to be voices for other victims or dropping out to get a full-time job and fixing my teeth. But every day that passes is another blow not only to my health but also to my confidence and mental peace. I've started avoiding food because I have chipped teeth in the past from eating and I am terrified to think what will happen if I don’t take action soon. Sleeping has been a major struggle because I lie awake at night terrified of the big bills for treatments I need but have no way of affording. My grades in college have started to slip and I am missing deadlines I never have before because of the constant anxiety. But here's where you come in, your support could be my lifeline out of this cycle of stress, anxiety, and hopelessness. Even if you can’t donate right now, sharing this story is a huge help! It takes just one click for your voice to join mine in making an impact on the life-changing treatment I so desperately need. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, literally because this is one of the darkest and most stressful periods of my life. Thank you for taking the time to read about what’s been weighing heavily on me and potentially impacting my future as well. Let's turn this moment into a turning point together! 🙏