When vision becomes reality

ATSU-ASDOH & the House of Refuge

The House of Refuge in Mesa, Ariz., is a faith-based, non-profit organization helping homeless families and individuals in crisis by providing transitional housing and supportive services that assist participants as they strive towards self-sufficiency and seek to obtain permanent housing. One resident of this facility, Jeffery, was dedicated to making a positive change in his life. With a goal of finding a new outlook and path in life, Jeffrey knew that his oral health was just one of the many obstacles he faced in finding a job.

The vision

In 2009, five second-year students from ATSU-ASDOH envisioned a plan for their Dentistry in the Community (DIC) project. DIC is an integral part of the ATSU-ASDOH curriculum, with goals of developing community partnerships that enhance student education, enrich communities, and benefit patients. The focus of DIC is to provide second-, third-, and fourth-year students with service learning experiences and knowledge of how to develop a public health project in collaboration with a community organization.

Hemali Rajyaguru, Steve Hutton, Jeremiah Sturgill, Bryan McLaughlin, and Rakhee Patel  (now D4s) decided to partner with the House of Refuge for their DIC project because the organization’s mission closely aligned with the ATSU mission of serving the underserved and because  the homeless and unemployed often lack dental care.

The vision of the students and Jeffrey’s hope for a better life crossed one day in September 2011. His life was about to change.

First steps

Initially, after partnering with the House of Refuge, the students carried out their project in phases beginning in 2010. The first event was held at the House of Refuge in August 2010 and the second six months later. At both, oral health education and screenings were provided for adults and children. Fluoride varnish was applied to children’s teeth. If needed, children were referred to a nearby pediatric dentist, and adults were referred to ATSU-ASDOH’s Mesa Clinic and other nearby clinics since lack transportation is often an issue. Approximately 100 people were screened.

Impacting a life

“In 2011, the last year of our DIC project, we wanted to devote care and treatment to one patient,” said Hemali Rajyaguru. “We asked the House of Refuge to identify one person in need of treatment.” Jeffrey was identified by Laurie Decker-Gallego, GED tutor at  the House of Refuge. Coincidentally, Decker-Gallego’s father is employed by Sundance Dental Laboratory in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Because of the collaboration of many, Jeffrey had oral surgery for the removal of 30 teeth and was fitted with a set of dentures at the ATSU-ASDOH Mesa Clinic.

“Absolutely none of this would have been possible had funds and the generosity of others not been available,” said Hemali. The students raised funds for the project which were matched by Khanh Chu, D.D.S., assistant professor, ATSU-ASDOH, and faculty advisor for the project. In addition, the ATSU-ASDOH dental clinic provided reduced fees. Sundance Dental Laboratory made the dentures and provided lab processing without charge.

Through the care and talents of many, Jeffrey’s smile has been transformed. And especially to Hemali, who orchestrated and provided much care and treatment, he sent his gratitude. Jeffrey’s card to her said “Thank you for changing my life.”

“I didn’t realize that the House of Refuge project would make such an impact on my life,” said Hemali.  It confirms the reason that I wanted to become a dentist.  I will never forget Jeffrey.”