OMG, I can't believe this! Some of you may remember that I was in the ER last weekend because of a dental infection. I was put on an antibiotic and had to see an oral surgeon. Well, the shelter system wouldn't pay for the appointment, so I was told that I would have to pay at least $35--half the cost, not including extras. They were aware of my living situation when I made the appointment and felt really bad. Anyway, after trying to decided all week if I should keep the appointment or cancel since it was out-of-pocket cost, I decided to go and at least find out what the guy had to say, and if I should continue with any prescriptions. I get prescriptions free now, so that's ok. I went their for my appointment and the assistant sat down and talked to me a few minutes about my situation. She felt so bad about it. When I was finally called in, she was doing a panoramic x-ray first and told me--just after getting me adjusted in the contraption and unable to move--that she was paying for it! The dentist said the tooth does need to be removed. It looks like I'll have stitches. And I don't have to pay for any of this! I can't believe this is being done. The dentist and his assistant/staff are losing several hundred and some dollars off me--maybe up to $1,000. I asked about costs and was given ranges for things, and added up it could get up that high. I was the last patient so when I left, the staff got to go home, too. The one assistant who talked to me before came up to me in the car and talked some more, and saying again that she will help, that she wants to help, and to call her anytime if I need anything. I don't know what to say! I need to at least send a card to them for the work they do for me. I feel like I owe them so much for their kindness. Kindness is priceless--how can I ever afford to repay that?