How Toothaches Became a Chance to Show Orphans They Are Loved in Bolivia

Below, one of our teammates in Bolivia shares an example of what holistic care for orphaned and vulnerable young adults in Bolivia can look like—

Laura* was waiting to schedule an x-ray for a toothache.

Just a few weeks prior, she went to the dentist for root canals and fillings, so she didn’t expect to still be having pain. I asked her if she felt good about the dentist she was seeing or if she wanted us to make an appointment with a dentist we trust. She was relieved to schedule an appointment with a different dentist.

When Laura arrived at the appointment, the new dentist took one look at her x-rays and knew the previous dentist hadn’t cared well for her teeth. Her root canals were done so poorly that four of Laura’s molars had to be removed, and her 15 cavities were left untreated despite what the previous dentist had told her.

Instead of taking care of her teeth, the previous dentist left Laura in pain, in need of surgery, and with a looming sense of vulnerability.

Thankfully, the trustworthy dentist was able to care for Laura’s dental needs and provide her with a renewed sense of control and security. And our team was able to help cover the cost of Laura’s treatment. Laura’s smile has since returned, and her teeth are now pain-free.  

We see it time and time again.

The orphaned and vulnerable young adults we serve are almost always in need of immediate dental care.

We’ve learned that a toothache doesn’t just cause physical pain; it reminds the young adult of their orphanhood and loneliness. So we see every toothache and cavity as an opportunity to show the young adult that they are loved, worthy, and not alone.

At Lifesong, we stand by a 4-part pledge to the children we serve. The second part of the pledge affirms our commitment to providing holistic care to orphaned and vulnerable children so they don’t lack food, clothing, medical care, and shelter.

We recently took another young adult named Samuel* to get his wisdom teeth removed. The procedure caused him anxiety, so the dentist allowed one of us to be with him during the surgery.

The hours we spent going to and from appointments and waiting for the dentist were not wasted.

This abundance of time allowed us to dive deeper with Samuel into spiritual topics and conversations. Samuel came away from the experience, not only with a healthier mouth and a stomach full of jello, but with a revitalized sense of being seen and well cared for.  

We praise God for each opportunity we have to love on God’s precious children by helping to meet their physical needs.

*names changed for protection

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Will you help orphaned young adults in Bolivia experience the hope of the Gospel?

When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are seen, known, and loved through Gospel-centered holistic care. Thanks to TMG Foundation, 100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children.