I’m a proud graduate of the Televerde Foundation Career PATHS program, which I completed while incarcerated. Since then, the foundation has continued to provide me with resources, encouragement and opportunities that have helped me rebuild my life and move forward with hope. Their support did not end when I graduated. In many ways, it was just the beginning.

Recently, I received a call from my mentor, Tina Schnaitman, letting me know that I was eligible for dental services through St. Vincent de Paul Dental Clinic. I was incredibly grateful just for the opportunity to be seen.

During my first appointment, I was told there would typically be a small consultation fee and that any additional work would be offered at a discounted rate with flexible payment plans based on income. To me, that sounded more than fair.

Then something happened that I will never forget.

The dentist reviewed my information and asked, “You were referred by the Televerde Foundation, correct?”

When I confirmed that I was, she smiled and said, “Disregard everything I just told you. All of your dental work will be covered 100% by the foundation.”

I was overwhelmed. Tears began rolling down my face as the reality of what I had just heard sank in. What I thought would be a consultation had suddenly become an opportunity I never expected.

After my X-rays and a thorough examination, the team told me I was a good candidate for dental implants. For the first time in many years, I felt genuinely hopeful about my smile.

Growing up, one of the things people complimented me on most was my smile. I was constantly asked if I had braces because my teeth were naturally straight and strong. Over the years, however, life happened. Between addiction, a serious car accident and having teeth extracted while incarcerated, I lost pieces of that smile. I found myself smiling less, covering my mouth more and becoming self-conscious about the gaps that had replaced the confidence I once had.

While I was incarcerated, dental care was primarily focused on emergencies, extractions and basic fillings, often with long waiting lists. Cosmetic or restorative care simply wasn’t an option.

“There’s something incredibly powerful about looking in the mirror and loving the person staring back at you.”

Because of the generosity of the Televerde Foundation and the amazing team at St. Vincent de Paul, I have been given the opportunity to restore something I thought was lost forever. The work being provided would normally cost tens of thousands of dollars, yet they have removed that burden entirely and replaced it with hope.

To everyone at the Televerde Foundation, to Tina Schnaitman, and to the compassionate professionals at St. Vincent de Paul Dental Clinic: thank you from the bottom of my heart.

The only way I know how to repay such kindness is to honor it by continuing to move forward, helping others whenever I can, and sharing my new smile with the world.

With endless gratitude,

Paige