In March 2022, the Albrecht Free Clinic received a new patient application for dental care with a handwritten note that said, “Before I can start my chemotherapy/radiation treatment, I am in desperate need of help because I do not have dental insurance.”
 
After speaking with Mike, 54, the dental team learned that he had stage II squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer that is slow growing but can be aggressive. Mike indicated that he needed a cleaning and multiple teeth extracted before his oncologist would move forward with his cancer treatment. Mike is unable to work because he has agoraphobia, an anxiety disorder that prevents him from leaving the house and being in public spaces.
 
Four days after his application was received, Mike had 10 teeth removed. After two additional appointments for extractions, his dental work was completed in early April, and Mike’s oncologist was able to proceed with his cancer treatment.
 
Mike is extremely thankful for the Albrecht Free Clinic and is happy to share his story if it helps others in need. Despite his agoraphobia, Mike did extremely well during his extractions and developed a friendly rapport with our volunteer dentists. Once Mike’s cancer treatment is complete, the Albrecht Free Clinic will restore Mike’s smile as part of its partials and dentures program.
 
The Albrecht Free Clinic is proud to help Mike improve his overall health and confidence.