Rotten teeth.
Rounds of antibiotics from MedStreet do not repair rotting teeth. The problem requires dentistry. Those with low/no income find few and insufficient options for dentistry. The bacterial plaque holds fast to the teeth while the abscesses recur.
Enter Dr. Suska and her assistant DJ of the Alexandria Dental Group at 1600 Duke Street. I explained the situation to DJ, who discussed the problem with Dr. Suska. She agreed to see the patient pro bono. Appointment made. Appointment missed. Repeat.
On the street, I ask our Lady why she hasn't made the appointments. Barriers. Once, transportation. Once, losing a storage unit. Thrice, forgot. I urge and encourage. Repeat.
One cold but sunny day, our Lady approaches me on the street smiling a big, white smile. I bellow, "You did it!"
Yes, she answers happily, then shows off her teeth again with a wide grin. "The pain is gone, but now need surgery. Dr. Suska referred me to an oral surgeon."
The following day, Dr. Suska tells me that she offered to pay for the oral surgery, but the surgeon insisted on doing the work pro bono.
The appointment for oral surgery has been made...