Patient Stories
Thomas’ Story
When Thomas Gulley learned about the Interfaith Dental Clinic he had no idea what a dramatic change would be in store for him.
Thomas worked as a tow truck driver in 1999 when he was struck in the head by a tow bar. The bar punctured his skull throwing him forward, knocking out three of his front teeth.
His head injuries were so severe that he had to learn to walk and talk again. He was without insurance and had no workman’s comp., so he was left with not only physical struggles, but financial
struggles as well. Additionally, Thomas has a disabled son that requires his own special needs.
Thomas endured a long battle, but eventually returned to work, only this time he was missing his front teeth. As a result of his appearance, Thomas wouldn’t talk to anyone.
He resumed towing cars and opted to work only at night and only alone.” I didn’t want them looking at me , really” states Thomas.
Four years later his wife presented him with a brochure on Interfaith and he made a call. He was shocked to learn that there was someone in the community that was willing to work within his financial abilities.
Thomas states “ I was just happy to get help period!, I thought I was going to have to get them all pulled out, I thought that was my only option.” He began his care with Interfaith missing only one appointment in 4 years. It took braces and bridgework to restore his front teeth but he was “
was willing to do anything they said”. His commitment paid off.
Thomas was crying the day he walked out of Interfaith with his new smile. He was “touched most definitely.” “My wife just couldn’t believe it when she saw me” says Thomas. He just had his first family photo taken.
To that he says, “They will just never know how grateful I am, never, I have something to say now, I am more confident than ever.
“I smile a lot now!”