Mr. P was living in Tennessee and working as an assistant manager at Wendy’s Restaurant when he became quite ill.  While visiting his parents in Michigan, Mr. P. made an appointment with his family doctor and was diagnosed with chronic renal disease. He was hospitalized for a week and decided to relocate to Michigan with his family.  Mr.P. started receiving kidney dialysis three times a week.  Although he did have medical insurance, only a minimal amount of his mounting medical bills were covered.   

Mr. P. desperately needed a kidney transplant but his severe dental infections needed to be cleared up before being placed on the waiting list.  “My teeth were extremely painful, and they were breaking off.  All I could eat was oatmeal and cream of wheat,” commented Mr. P.  He hoped, “to get a transplant, get a good job and live a normal life again.”    

Mr. P. investigated many charitable agencies for his necessary dental care before finally being referred to DDS. In 2004, Mr. P. began treatment with Dr. M. and over the course of his treatment Mr. P. was so grateful that he often brought flowers for the dental staff.  He commented that his dental work helped to boast his self esteem. “My dental work made me feel much better about myself.  Finally, I could smile again.  The only positive thing that has happened to me since I became ill was my participation in the DDS program.  It’s truly a lifesaver.”   

Dr. M. has always greatly enjoyed treating DDS patients.  He elaborated, “Patients referred to me through DDS are among my best patients.  Mr. P. was no exception.  He had a very understated, quite goodness about him.  He was so grateful.  My experience treating him was wonderful, and it was very rewarding.”   

About halfway through Mr. P’s treatment, volunteer Dr. M was diagnosed with a rare liver disease caused by an abnormality of the immune system.  Dr. M. brought Mr. P to health so he could be on a transplant list and it is very probable that Dr. M. will be on the waiting list for a transplant at the same time Mr. P. is.  Dr. M. stated, “It was illuminating; it might sound a little corny, but I believe my involvement with Mr. P’s case was no accident.”