When a patient’s needs go beyond a single office, our DDS volunteers step up to bridge the gap. We are excited to highlight a powerful partnership between general dentist Dr. Wendy Holder and oral surgeon Dr. Jonathan Frederick, who worked together to transform the life of a patient named Darryl.
The Volunteers
Dr. Wendy Holder and Dr. Jonathan Frederick have exemplified selfless service for many years as DDS volunteers. Since joining the program in 1999, general dentist Dr. Holder has treated 42 patients and donated over $114,015 in treatment. Dr. Frederick, an oral surgeon, has volunteered for the DDS program since 2012, treating eight patients and giving over $28,637 in donated care.
“I can’t say enough about what a joy it is to work with Dental Lifeline Network patients,” expressed Dr. Wendy Holder. “More quote from Dr. Holder about this case particularly and why it impacted her and reinforced her love for volunteering.” – Just waiting to hear back from her.
The Need for Care
Darryl’s life changed in an instant following a 2013 accident that left him with quadriplegia. His deteriorating oral health as a result made eating a daily struggle, causing him pain and requiring his mother to cut his food into fine pieces to prevent choking. Despite the accident, Darryl kept his fun sense of humor and longed for a smile to match that. Without the means to afford treatment, Darryl’s oral health was at a standstill until this team of DDS volunteers intervened.
Requiring a combination of surgical expertise and restorative care, Dr. Wendy Holder and Dr. Jonathan Frederick stepped up to ensure Darryl received a comprehensive solution. Through the combined efforts of these volunteers and the generosity of a volunteer lab, Darryl received thousands of dollars in donated treatment that restored his oral health, including extractions, full upper and lower partial dentures, and other restorations. Finally, Darryl could eat without pain, and his smile showed the joy he felt.
“Thank you for the gift of love that you gave to Darryl – you were an answer to many prayers,” shared Nancy, Darryl’s mom. “We have already seen improvements in his health, and we could never thank you enough for what you did.”
Thank you, Dr. Wendy Holder and Dr. Jonathan Frederick, for changing lives through the DDS program!
