Lillie, 75, is a widow who lives independently in Rankin County. Until she and her husband retired, they worked delivering newspapers together. She enjoys spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Lillie likes working in her flower garden when she is able, going to church and being an active member of her community.
Due to her health issues including diabetes and high blood pressure, she is unable to have surgery for a bulging disc in her neck and back that causes her great pain. In addition to her health challenges, her dental health needed attention. Lillie had dentures over 20 years old that didn’t fit properly and got ulcers on her lower gums which made it difficult and painful to chew. She survives on Social Security and food stamps and was unable to afford the extensive dental treatment she needed.
How DDS Helped
Fortunately, Lillie was referred to the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program and she was linked with two generous volunteers.
• Dr. Robert Michael Harkins preformed general cleanings and restorations.
• Blackburn Dental Lab fabricated the full upper dentures at no cost.
“I was happy with the services, I am able to eat meat now. This is a wonderful program!” –Lillie, DDS Patient
“I’m proud to have been associated with the Donated Dental Services program for over twenty years. As dentists we are so richly blessed and giving back through the DDS program helps to further enrich our profession. Seeing the joy in their eyes with their new smile is priceless.” –Dr. Robert Michael Harkins, DDS Volunteer
Mississippi Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a program of Dental Lifeline Network, a national humanitarian organization and a strategic partner of the ADA, providing access to comprehensive dental care for people with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile and have no other way to get help. Nationally, almost 15,000 dentists and 3,500 laboratories volunteer for DDS.
Learn more about volunteering or to learn about DDS in your state, visit our state pages.
