Daniel was severely attacked by a dog as a young child – the dog bit off a large portion of his left ear and damaged his face. Daniel, who lives in Orlando, Florida, had received some minor surgeries for his condition but his lack of insurance, combined with the fact that his family of four had little income, left Daniel with few options. Luckily, at 13, Daniel was referred to Fresh Start and began the long process of recovery from the attack that had changed his life.

Fresh Start provided Daniel with reconstructive surgeries, scar revision, travel to the Fresh Start Clinic in San Diego, lodging, and food free of charge during his Surgery Weekends. Now 17, Daniel is almost completely recovered and has only a few more surgeries left for scar revision and to complete his left ear reconstruction. Daniel wrote a letter to Fresh Start to express his gratitude:

Dear Fresh Start,

My family and I did not know how we were going to get help because financially we weren’t ready for what happened to me. Five years after the attack, a friend of our family recommended Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, which changed my life forever. When my family and I met the staff and volunteers of Fresh Start, they were so friendly and always had a smile on their faces when they spoke to us.

Saying thank you may not be enough, but that is all I have. You helped me regain my life, and you have made me see that for every problem that is in the world, there is someone who will always help you get back up on your feet. After God and my family, I put you guys third in my life. Just like the Good Samaritan, Fresh Start rescued my right when I needed you the most.

I could never repay you. No amount of diamonds or gold would satisfy the thankfulness that I have towards you. May God bless you as he blesses me. Someday, I’ll be one of the many great surgeons helping, so save a spot for me.

Thank you,

Daniel