Daniel
Daniel was severely attacked by a dog as a young child – the dog bit off his left ear and mutilated his face. Daniel 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 to repair the extensive cosmetic damage on his face—as well as the trauma from the accident.
Luckily, at 13, Daniel was referred to Fresh Start’s kids free cosmetic surgery program and began the long process of recovery from the attack that had changed his life forever.
Fresh Start’s nonprofit volunteers provided Daniel with reconstructive surgeries, scar revision, lodging, and food free of charge during his Surgery Weekends. In total, Daniel has received 6 surgeries, over 30 other medical appointments for his condition, and is now a part of our successful reconstructive surgery stories. Fresh Start’s volunteers have provided Daniel with $85,000 in donated medical care—all of his surgeries and other treatments were provided by local volunteer medical professionals.
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 thankfulpness 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
Volunteer Opportunities
Our Medical Program consists of the Surgery Weekend Program, Dental Clinics & Support Services.