A DUer needs our help!!!

[OneGrassRoot]

Required disclaimer: The administrators of Democratic Underground have given permission for one discussion thread on this topic. The administrators of Democratic Underground make no claims regarding the legitimacy or illegitimacy of this fundraising effort. Permission was granted by Skinner on 8/6/2010, and the moderators have been notified.

Just imagine what you could make happen, just by deciding to help. Maybe the revolution doesn't come with a warning after all, maybe this is the revolution. ~The Wise DUer in Need :)

One of our own needs help. He's always the one helping, but finally -- and only after much encouragement -- he is asking for the help he needs.

When I mentioned Wishadoo a few weeks ago, he immediately loved the idea of what is being created there. He joined, ready to help in whatever way he can. When I suggested he post to the Wishlist, asking for what HE needs, he had to ponder that for a while. The idea of asking for help was a huge hurdle for him to overcome. I get that...and it's why I'm honored he ended up doing so. My hope is that he's opened the door for others who read this to do the same.

If you're so inclined, please:

1. Check out this WISHLIST POST to learn more about the DUer in need and how you can help. A link to a fundraising page is at the bottom of the post.

This is someone who is anxious to pay it forward and help others; I really believe we can help him with this and start a domino effect. He's far from alone. We have to start by asking for help. Putting it "out there." Who knows where it may come from once we do?

Rather than put his name and story here, he's asked that I instead link to his Wishlist Post.

2. Join Wishadoo!

If Wishadoo sounds familiar, we did a very "soft" launch over a year ago, but the site just wasn't user-friendly enough and was too fragmented. Please, take a few minutes to check it out now and learn more.

We've created a brand new space where everything is now under "one roof," so when you join you'll have access to everything with one login. We're still in beta stages but are opening the doors.

Consider yourselves one huge focus group to help us make Wishadoo! as efficient and helpful as possible.

Note that I created a Wishadoo Group for Progressives, to gather with a Wishadoo-centric focus. This is where you can interact with the DUer in need about his situation and where others can come forward more freely, to discuss how to create more Compassionate Communities, come together for others in need by using the tools there, brainstorm about ways to help, etc. (the discussion forum is private, btw)

3. Take a moment to consider: What would make life easier for you right now in some way? What can you offer others, no matter how small it may seem to you...something which may ease their burden?

As corny as it may seem, today I am sincerely asking you to ASK. OFFER. DREAM...BELIEVE.

Then Post to the Wishlist.

This DUer's need is the door to open the way for others to join to give, receive and pay it forward.

Please let others know about Wishadoo...the more who gather, the better the chances of connecting to fulfill needs and wishes.

I invite you to watch and share the Wishadoo! video, join our Facebook Page, and JOIN US at Wishadoo!

PLEASE HELP KEEP THIS KICKED SO OTHERS WILL SEE!

Thank you!!! :hi:


edited subject line :)

[Celebration]

1. Thanks, OGR

For bringing this to our attention. I love Wishadoo!

[OneGrassRoot]

5. ....

:hug: to you, Celebration! Thanks! :hi:

[HowHasItComeToThis]

110. GO TO THE UNIV OF PACIFIC DENTAL SCHOOL IN SAN FRANCISCO

THEY WILL DO YOUR TEETH FOR YOU. SHOULD BE FREE.

2155 Webster St
San Francisco, CA 94115
[phone]
Bus: Sacramento St & Webster St
Get directions - Is this accurate?
Open Mon-Wed,Fri 8:30am-5pm; Thu 8:30am-5pm, 6pm-8:30pm

GOOD LUCK FOR YOU

[I Have A Dream]

2. I will definitely check out what he needs, OGR.

As always, thank you for what you do.

:hug:

Big K&R!

[OneGrassRoot]

6. ...

:hug: back atcha, and thank you SO MUCH! :hi:

[mmonk]

3. Thanks. Seems worthwhile. Bookmarking.

[Sheepshank]

4. K & R

I felt like crying after reading some of the others' needs. There is so much need out there. Without hijacking this thread, I can't help but state what a sad commentary it is on our current health care system.

[OneGrassRoot]

7. You're not hijacking...

It IS a pathetic state of affairs. :(

While we work legislatively as best and stay informed via sites like DU, we also need to just come together ourselves. Do what we can.

I'm forever amazed by how the smallest things can shift someone's life. We have to connect for that to happen though.

For those of us who don't really have friends or family around us, nor do we belong to a church or similar organization, support systems aren't there.

That's why Wishadoo was created.

Thanks, sheepshank. :hi:

[blm]

20. too true...

kick and rec

[laughingliberal]

32. St. Ronnie would be proud. nt

[JohnnyLib2]

8. Thanks.

K & R

[lillypaddle]

9. This is really worthwhile

K&R

[EFerrari]

10. Kick!

[RainDog]

11. smiley-face kick n/t

hugs

[Luciferous]

12. Just added my donation, thanks for sharing!

[w8liftinglady]

13. kicking..if I can do it,most of you all can,too...He deserves to smile:)

If we all donate a little,it'll happen!

[OneGrassRoot]

14. Oh man, you just made me tear up...

"He deserves to smile."

:applause:

You just made me smile. Thank you, w8liftinglady!

:hug:

Thank you, DUers!!!

:grouphug:

[w8liftinglady]

17. if 500 give $5,he can get a good set...that wont irritate gums

[mstinamotorcity]

15. I will check out the

list and do what I can. Thanks for keeping us on top of our virtual community.

[Starry Messenger]

16. k & r!

[Starry Messenger]

22. kicking my kick.

:)

[pipi_k]

35. I'll kick your kick on your own kick n/t

:7

[Doremus]

18. K&R

[madmax]

19. K&R

[Kind of Blue]

21. Hard KICK!

Will definitely be giving come payday Friday.

Thanks OGR for bringing out the better in us. I hope we bring in more than enough! :hug: :loveya:

[niyad]

23. k and r

[OneGrassRoot]

24. You guys rock beyond words........

I'm a blubbering idiot this morning -- bawling my eyes out -- but in a good way.

I thank you all for your generosity and support. THIS IS COMMUNITY. There are so many ways we can help one another -- it isn't always a monetary need (but there sure is a lot of need in that regard).

I'm humbled. The DUer in need is on the West Coast and probably hasn't even seen this yet.

I have a feeling he'll be a blubbering idiot, too. ;)

:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug:

[Sheepshank]

25. wow

k&r

[pipi_k]

26. Gave what I could... n/t

[pinboy3niner]

27. Now 85% to goal! :)

[pipi_k]

28. Wow..now that was fast!!!!

:)

[BanzaiBonnie]

29. When I went to kick in

the total showed as 85% of the way there

[OneGrassRoot]

30. Yep, which is why I'm a blubbering idiot....

:cry:

:grouphug:

[laughingliberal]

31. K & R nt

[auntAgonist]

33. kick n/t

[w8liftinglady]

34. kick- we are so close...

[Political_Junkie]

36. I have the same problem as this DUer,

but I'll give what I can. This is a beautiful thing!

[amerikat]

69. kick

[OneGrassRoot]

70. Kicking for you, too, P_J...

We're not done. We're just getting started.

:hi:

:hug:

[BanzaiBonnie]

99. So put your wish out there, really

please. Everyone NEEDS good teeth. For health sake.

[Political_Junkie]

100. Oh, believe me, I understand the health part.

In some ways that's even more important than the loss of pride that goes with losing your teeth. There are so many foods I have to avoid, because of the pain.

[FedUpWithIt All]

118. I do too. I am sorry i didn't see this thread sooner.

I would have liked to donate as well. People sometimes do not understand how powerfully one can be affected by severe dental problems.

:hug:

[racaulk]

37. Goal = reached!

Desperately needing dental work done, and not being able to afford it, is a situation that hits home and affects me very personally.

As a child money was always tight for my family (which was just my father and I) and my dad had absolutely no skills in financial management, so things were usually only paid for when they reached an emergency-level status. Since my dad believed preventive dental care to be too expensive, he never made it a priority for me to be able to visit the dentist. I can probably count on one hand the number of times I went to the dentist as a child. The result, of course, was that as an adult I was left with many dental issues to have taken care of with no way of being able to afford doing so.

I put those issues on hold as I worked to put myself through college, get a good job, and save some money. Long story short, it wasn't until I was 30 that I was able to start going to a dentist regularly, and by that time they had a bit of a mess to clean up. I have spent several thousand dollars over the last few years getting my teeth corrected (wisdom teeth extraction, two implants, two crowns, a root canal, various fillings, etc.), and I am currently wearing Invisalign braces to have my teeth straightened. So for the first time in my life, at the age of 34, I finally have a smile that I am happy with.

Having a good smile gives one a tremendous sense of confidence, although you may not realize that fact unless you have lived most of your life without that smile. I have been fortunate (and lucky) enough to be able to get my smile back, but I will never forget all of those years when I could have really used the financial help that would have allowed me to visit the dentist and have the work done that I desperately needed. Although I never received that help as a child, as an adult I am able to offer that help to others. And I am so glad to have this opportunity to do so.

This kind of post absolutely represents the best of DU and what is so great about this online community, people helping people. Thank you, OneGrassRoot, for making this happen. Thanks also for exposing me to Wishadoo! -- what a great concept! I will definitely look into that site more deeply and see where I can get involved.

And thank you, Rocky, for being brave enough to share your story. Best of luck to you, and thank you in advance to paying it forward to others in the future. :hi:

[auntAgonist]

38. WONDERFUL!

[w8liftinglady]

39. we really are a good bunch.multiple Small donations= one big one

[pipi_k]

43. Lots of little grains of sand put together can make a big sand castle...

shit.

I don't wanna cry...

[amerikat]

40. 100%....glad to help out.

Go Rocky

[OneGrassRoot]

41. I'm speechless!!!! So is the DUer in need.........

(which, if you know him, is quite an amazing thing! :rofl:)

Thank you all so much!!!!!

I only provided the space and opened the door for the kindness to pour through -- and you guys did it!!!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!!!

There are angels among us for certain. O8)

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug::hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

[Sienna86]

44. Kick - towards a better set.

OGR - thanks for bringing out the best in us.

[OneGrassRoot]

45. ...

:hug:

[asdjrocky]

42. This is just too much.

I find myself in a rare situation of being speechless. When OneGrassRoot called me this morning, she gave me the news that my future can indeed be a brighter place, and I can't begin to thank you all for what you have done.

Within a couple of weeks, I should be able to re-start my job search with some real hope, and a couple of good leads.

That is because of you, and you and you. Everyone that kicked, everyone that gave, everyone that sent good thoughts.

Miracles like this have never happened in my life, at 50 I had decided that they didn't exist. Boy, was I ever wrong.

Thank you is not enough, it doesn't convey the feelings I have now. This language in all it's limitations does not give me the words I need to let you all know what this means to me.

So all I can do is offer you my thanks, and I want to urge you to keep helping others.

I know I will pay this forward in a big way.

A blessing on you all.

[blm]

55. ((( )))

.

[laylah]

46. Thank you! K 'nR nt

[shireen]

47. need is overwhelming ...

i already give as much as i can, and feel guilty when i can't.

this is a great website -- i hope it gets more traffic.

[OneGrassRoot]

50. Please, don't feel guilty......

The need IS overwhelming. It really is. :cry:

Rather than feel overwhelmed, I humbly suggest we do what little we can -- it doesn't have to be monetary -- to ease another's burden.

That's why I'm begging people to please join and post what you need, what you can offer, what you dream of...so we can see other ways to help -- see what people's needs are -- and ease some of the suffering.

So many are suffering in solitude and feel isolated. It doesn't have to be that way. It could be as simple as connecting them to someone who has it within their means to help with whatever their crisis/need/dream may be.

That's why we created Wishadoo. It took so long to get it here...but I pray it helps others.

The more who gather....


:hug:

[Political_Junkie]

48. I joined, OneGrassRoot

and also joined your Progressives group. I didn't know about this site before your post, but I will definitely be returning to it often.

[OneGrassRoot]

52. Thank you SO much!!!

I hope you'll help us create Wishadoo.. The space is there; now it's up to others to make use of it to create these compassionate communities -- online and offline.

DUers sure showed up in full force this morning.

I'm humbled, and so very, very grateful!

:hug:

[happy_liberal]

49. I love DU!

:applause:

Let's do it again! $5 is nothing to help change a life.

[happy_liberal]

51. Whoa!

Raised: $1055 / Goal: $900

[OneGrassRoot]

53. Stunning, isn't it?

I've been a blubbering fool for the last couple of hours.

The generosity and kindness has been very humbling.

I know Rocky is overwhelmed.

Thanks, happy_liberal! :hug:

[happy_liberal]

62. Thank you!

:grouphug:

[happy_liberal]

54. I wish we could do something like this for bobbolink

somehow get her into housing. She is already so amazing at promoting homeless issues, imagine what she could do if she were well rested and eating well.

[OneGrassRoot]

57. We can...

if she is open to it.

I admire Bobbolink beyond words...and Hannah Bell...and so many others who are tireless advocates while simultaneously barely surviving each day.

I have a feeling Rocky has something like this in mind for his paying forward. :)

:hi:

[niyad]

59. that is a wonderful thought, and you are so good to think of it.

[asdjrocky]

63. It's about paying it forward now.

This is where the revolution starts. I feel that by being the first to recive real concrete help from Wishadoo, it's my job to tell folks about others in need.

Bobbolink is a visionary that has helped many see a better way to listening, and she is more than deserving of a hand up.

Good call.

[happy_liberal]

67. I love Bobbolink!

She has helped me so much. I use everything she has taught me to tell others about the real needs of homeless people.

Which is why I know she won't accept help. The only help she wants is for us to help her help other homeless people by fighting for real low income housing.

But if you could get her that help, if we could get her into a home....I can only imagine the good she would do if she had regular access to a computer, and some sleep and decent food. If she could see that if we help her, she could help so many more...

I know it sounds crazy but I have this dream that we could set Bobbolink up in a multi bedroom home where she rent rooms to others with low incomes(maybe Duers also interested in helping others)...and from that Duers could create a real working group headed by Bobbolink.

[asdjrocky]

74. What a wonderful idea.

Asking for help is tough, I know it was tough for me.

She could do a lot of good, if we could help her obtain the tools.

[a la izquierda]

73. i was thinking the same thing...

i'm only a grad student, and i don't have much...but do let me know if something like that is an option. just unplugged my cable, so i'd much rather donate that money to her than blow it on something stupid!

[G_j]

56. K&R!

[a la izquierda]

58. A couple weeks ago...

a wonderful DUer helped me get out of a massive financial jam. The only catch was that I had to pay it forward.
I'm bookmarking this so that I can find it Tuesday, when I'll have a little money to spend on good causes. The person in question that now needs a hand has always been so kind to me. I'm stoked I get to help someone that needs it.
;)

[OneGrassRoot]

60. ...

:hi: :hug:

[NYC Liberal]

61. Kicking & recommending!

:hug:

[The Straight Story]

64. K&R joining and paying it forward, thanks for the link!! (nt)

[raouldukelives]

65. k&r nt

[The Straight Story]

66. Thanks again - did not have much left on card this week, but donated

DU'ers have helped me out a few times. Please let me/us know any time someone else needs help through there. A great way to give back and if I can give just a little each week to help out someone I will. great site and I look forward to paying forward all the help I have been given.

[OneGrassRoot]

68. ....

:hug:

You're greatly appreciated, The Straight Story.

:hi:

[Iwillnevergiveup]

71. One Grass Root and Rocky

You are both awesome! Along with this website. You made my day!

K&R

[Missy Vixen]

72. For all DU'ers who may need dental work

Please look into the tech colleges and universities you may live by. We lost our dental insurance almost two years ago. We are lucky enough to live by a tech school that has a dental hygiene program. It takes longer to get the exam, a cleaning and an exam, but I got one for 1/3 what the dentist's office routinely charges. They also have dentists that will do the work you might need for (again,) much less money.

You're getting the dental visit you need; they're getting closer to their degree. It's a win-win.

OGR, you are the best. I hope all the good things you put into the world come back to you a thousandfold!

[OneGrassRoot]

75. Hey, Missy! Yes, Rocky tried that....

and I followed up, trying on his behalf, too.

It didn't work; none of those paths worked, so the fundraiser was the next step.

I'd love to make a list of dental schools and other resources such as this at Wishadoo, for people to find places that are willing to help.

I'll figure out where to put it and ask people to please chime in. Great idea, Missy Vixen.

Thanks!

:hug: :hug: :hug:

[Missy Vixen]

85. OGR, thank you for that

I know he tried everything else. I don't want him to think I made the suggestion because I was being mean. I hoped it would help someone else.

It is a GREAT idea to make a list and post it at Wishadoo! I would be happy to add to that list, too.

You are always welcome, and Rocky, here's to that dazzling smile!

:hug: :hug: :hug:

[OneGrassRoot]

88. Here is a place to start listing them...

If you have time to list the dental school you know of, that would be great. Thanks again, Missy!

:hi:

http://www.wishadoo.com/forum/posts/id_24/

[OhioBlue]

115. Good Advice Missy!

I'm lucky to have a non-profit dental clinic near my place of work. We also have a dental clinic at the health department in the County where I live. Both are much more accessible than a regular dentist for low/moderate income people w/out dental insurance. I am lucky that I can tuck my tax refund into a savings account and use it for expenses outside of the planned, monthly ones.

I hadn't been to a dentists since I lost my dental insurance and knew that I needed a couple of fillings & some work on an old filling in a chipped tooth from childhood. The non-profit dental clinic charged me 1/2 of what a dentist would have. If a person has little financial means, I think they can get free care. Not sure if it covers dentures - probably not... but the clinic is awesome and I wish everyone had access to one just like it. You can at least get cleanings/fillings, etc. at a reduced cost or even at no cost.

[OneGrassRoot]

129. That is so wonderful!

I wish every area had that option...of course, I wish our healthcare system wasn't as it is.

I wish, I wish, I wish.....

Would you mind putting the specific clinic you speak of in this thread for me at Wishadoo? I'd like to make a list of all such places in the different areas for people to make use of when possible.

Thanks so much! :)

http://www.wishadoo.com/forum/posts/id_24/

:hug:

[The Straight Story]

76. I thought this was cool: will appear as a charge from "GiveForward, LLC"

LOVE that - Will make me smile every time I donate and think of the people here who helped me out. Thanks again for the link!

[DFW]

77. By the time I saw this, the goal was met

Still, I kicked in something in case some follow-up was needed.

If not, have some corn on the cob on me!

[pinboy3niner]

78. Exceeding the goal may give Rocky some degree of choice...

...of providers, rather than having to settle for the lowest bargain-basement option. If he can go where he feels comfortable and has some degree of confidence, so much the better.

[ThomCat]

79. I gave anyway. If costs go over, exta will help.

And if more or extra work is necessary, the extra funds will be necessary.

And, if the extra isn't needed, I trust that it will be put to good use helping someone else who needs it. :)

[asdjrocky]

81. Absoulutly it will be paid forward.

Only the funds needed for the work will be used. In fact, I'm asking that the check be made out directly to the dentist doing the denture work. What is not used will be used to help others.

[dogday]

82. An inspired story that I can sink my soul into...

Thanks for that :hug:

[pinboy3niner]

96. If you're not sure about the cheap dentist, use the extra to find a better one

I had a facial/dental injury a long time ago, and I understand very well how important both appearance and function are.

Find a good one, Rocky--it doesn't have to be fancy, just make sure it's one you're confident has your interest at heart and will do a good job.

And use a few bucks, as ThomCat suggested, for some ears of corn. And maybe some apples and some nuts. :)

[HillbillyBob]

98. Yes because I now have dentures that

do not fit right because i had to go to a low cost provider. If I could have had the lowers taken out when I had a decent dentist and some income.

As is I wear them to eat but they hurt so I have them out most of the time.
The uppers were made by a real artist.
Poor fitting dentures are a real pia and a hazard to yourself. I use seabond and that cushions, but only so much.

[w8liftinglady]

83. my mom just spent 2500 on a good pair of dentures...with readjustments if needed

Since he's gonna have these awhile,let them be good...

[tblue37]

122. I agree. He should check out more dentists and then let us know what a

good pair will cost. Then we can try to help him reach that goal, not the goal of a bargain basement pair that might end up causing him a great deal of discomfort.

[dogday]

80. This is freaking fantastic. I am dying from CHF and have been

paying forward as much as I can. It feels so good to help others.

[w8liftinglady]

84. does it help if I give you a hug?You will be repaid through some means

if it's just knowing the number you helped have better lives...

[dogday]

86. Are you kidding. Hugs are the best. That's all I want are hugs,

well wishes, and best regards. It took me over a year to tell my story, but let's just say, I should not be typing this to you now. My doctor said he snatched me from the jaws of death.

I will take whatever anyone wants to give me... I am just happy to be here today... :hug:

[OneGrassRoot]

89. Bless you, dogday.....

Please know you have heartfelt hugs headed your way....

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

[niyad]

91. hugs, well wishes and best regards on their way. may you be around long enough to enjoy many,

many more far into the future.

[dogday]

97. Thank you! I need as many as I can get as evidenced by the post

prior to yours... These pats on the back mean the world to me. It is all I have is hope and good positive feelings. I am making my bucket list and trying to do as much as I can...


Thanks again for your support :hug:

[I Have A Dream]

106. Much love and light to you, dogday!

:grouphug:

[dogday]

111. Wow, I am just awed by the emotion of this bunch of people..

I guess that is why I love DU so much..... Thanks so much :hug:

[pinboy3niner]

117. Hugs, well wishes and best regards I can give to you in spades

Beyond that, you have my admiration for your equanimity in carrying the load on your shoulders. The rest of us can only wish we could do as well in such circumstances.

I'm kinda happy you're still here today, too. :) And I'm glad for you that you're finally able to be open about what's going on with you. That's really a BFD.

[FedUpWithIt All]

119. ...

:hug:

[FedUpWithIt All]

120. Oops.

[progressoid]

87. Happy to help someone that would brave a cold Iowa winter during the election!

I couldn't be there to help out back then but I can help a little now.

[OneGrassRoot]

90. If anyone has resources to recommend....

I'd appreciate it if you shared at the link below (or here and I'll do it).

If dental schools have helped you, vet schools, local/regional/national agencies, non-profits, etc.

http://www.wishadoo.com/forum/posts/id_24/

I'll work on compiling into a "wiki" of sorts and incorporate in some fashion into the Wishadoo! Directory, but this is a start.

BTW, in asking for this question in a DU post last week, I discovered a great resource:

www.211.org

Rather than calling 911 for emergency or 411 for info, you call 211 to find help! :)

Wishadoo fills in the empty spaces such services can't provide and gives us a chance to give back and contribute to something larger than us, in a very direct, personal way.

Thanks again, Everyone!

:hi:

[Cleita]

92. K&R

[mnhtnbb]

93. Happy to help.

[abq e streeter]

94. I guess I'm sort of brainless (even more than usual) today but emailed from the contact page

asking how to send a few dollars. For some reason it wasn't clear to me. This person in need has always seemed like a really good guy and I'll be honored to help with the relatively small amount I can when I hear back from the contact email I sent.

[OneGrassRoot]

95. Done :) n/t

[asdjrocky]

101. Just stoping in to thank everyone.

WE MET OUR GOAL! PLEASE DO NOT DONATE ANYMORE!

I'll post tomorrow morning a real thank you to all of you, and I'm working on personal thanks right now. I'll also keep everyone posted on my progress.

Please know, through Wishadoo, and through the way I live my life, I'll pay it forward many times.

For now I just want to say thank you to every K&R, and I want to thank DU, and I want to thank OneGrassRoot and Wishadoo.

Also, for everyone out there like me, the first step is hard, but asking for help can change everything. Think about it.

Again, thank you all.

[OneGrassRoot]

103. ....

:yourock: :yourock: :yourock:

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

[asdjrocky]

105. Oh stop.

:yourock:

[tblue37]

123. But Rocky, are you going for the bargain basement pair?

Really, I do believe we could help you reach the price of a better pair if you would aim for that. Dentures that don't fit well will cause you so much discomfort. If it is $2500 for a good pair, then let us know. I bet we can come up with that!

Please don't get dentures that hurt you.

[OneGrassRoot]

127. This is a good point, tblue37....

I'm sure Rocky will read this later this morning.

Thanks for being so thoughtful. I don't have personal experience with this issue (yet! though no dental or medical care or coverage for ages, either), so I'm rather clueless.

:hug:

[OneGrassRoot]

102. UPDATE!!! :)

We're closing this fundraiser because, MUCH to our surprise, DUers not only met the goal but surpassed it in ONE DAY!!!! It was set up to go for a month, so now I have to see how to shut it down super early. :rofl:

:yourock: :yourock: :yourock: :yourock: :yourock:

:fistbump: :fistbump: :fistbump:

As Rocky has mentioned here several times, he is overwhelmed and beyond grateful. He's also going to post something in the next day or two about paying it forward and sharing how this experience has touched him.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU ALL SO VERY MUCH!!!!! You have made many hearts smile today, and you're literally gifting Rocky with a new smile.

I know there are many of you in need as well -- we all need SOMETHING. I ask you once again to please consider joining and posting at Wishadoo. Critical needs, "it would really be nice...," dreams, offerings; you name it, it is welcome at Wishadoo! (so long as it's legal!;) ).

If we enter with an open heart and no expectation, I believe all manner of good is possible.

You proved it today.

Bless you and yours....


:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug:

[w8liftinglady]

104. let's keep our eyes open for others...Thankfully,it isn't me..

[tblue37]

124. But can't we aim to get him a really good pair of dentures? nt

[defendandprotect]

107. K&R ---

[BrklynLiberal]

108. Kick and Rec

[EvolveOrConvolve]

109. In honor of this thread, I added Wishadoo to my signature

asdjgrocky, I hope you find a job! :hug:

[OneGrassRoot]

136. OMG, that is so nice!!!!

Thank you! :)

:hi:

:hug:

[mysticalchick]

112. Awesome post, OGR ...

... and a great way to use Wishadoo for the highest good. I see they went over and above for Rocky and that is just so awesome!

YEY for everyone who contributed their energy to this project and to Rocky's success!

[riderinthestorm]

113. Wish I'd seen this earlier! Bookmarked for the future. Thanks to Wishadoo! nt

[FirstLight]

114. Kickety KICK!

:kick:

Love you OGR, and though i can't help directly, I can kick and send some love :loveya:

[OhioBlue]

116. This is awsome OGR

Kudos to you on such a thoughtful endeavor. You are a wonderful person. Thank you for doing this and for caring so much for others. The world needs more people like you.

And to Rocky... I am so incredibly happy for you. I am also so incredibly inspired by you. By allowing a community to help you, being the first and being so gracious and honest.. you have already paid it forward. You have set OGR's beautiful dream up for success. I thank you for your courage, for your honesty and your graciousness. The world needs more people like you too.

[OneGrassRoot]

128. ...

Thanks for the kind words. :hug:

I agree about Rocky -- this was a huge act of courage and graciousness. And DUers responded with kindness.

It's been a beautiful, beautiful day all the way around.

:hug: :hug: :hug:

:grouphug:

[FedUpWithIt All]

121. This is a beautiful thing OnegrassRoot.

Thank you for doing this. I hope it reaches far and wide.

:hug:

[OneGrassRoot]

130. ...

:hug:

[niyad]

125. kick for the morning crowd

[lame54]

126. just saw this thread.

I know the goal has been reached but wanted to know if I donate it would still go to rocky. There are always other little things that need to be paid for, like gas money to get to the Dentists.
We have considered Rocky as friend since joining du.

[OneGrassRoot]

131. Hey, lame54...

I'm following Rocky's lead on this. He's overwhelmed and very uncomfortable that it's gone over the original amount. He absolutely insists on any amount over the dental costs (he wants a check made payable directly to the dentist...lol) is going to be paid forward and is already considering how to do this.

People who have experience with dentures are raising a good point, however, that he needs to not go for the lease expensive set and to make sure to get a good set.

I've extended the fundraiser another day for Rocky to decide what he'd like to do after getting more information from the one dentist he found to work with him today.

Absolutely all funds at that fundraiser page will go to Rocky. :)

:hi:

[unapatriciated]

134. one more question

patty here lame's partner ( I handle all the monies :) ). I went to the page and click on donation and wasn't sure what to put in field where it goes. help for a computer dummy please. We love Rocky and very much understand how dental can affect everything (my son's illness) has done a number on his teeth but is not covered under medical. It is something that needs to be addressed regarding health care.

on edit: sorry i clicked on top of the page instead of going to the bottom of the story, figured it out and donated. love this site.

[OneGrassRoot]

135. I just sent a PM. :) n/t

[pamela]

137. I just saw this, too.

I want to donate if it's still open.

[OneGrassRoot]

138. Good morning, Pamela!

:hi:

It will be open for at least another day so Rocky can investigate the cost and feel comfortable he's getting something that will truly help him, and not settle for something that may cause more grief in the long run for him. At least, that's my suggestion to him today, along with others in this thread.

It will be up to him. For now, it's still open, with the links in the OP still active.

;)

Thanks. :hug:

[unapatriciated]

132. hey rocky

:hug: lame and I consider you family and family always takes care of each other. You are a great advocate for many keep up the wonderful work you do.
love Patty MC

[Name removed]

133. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[niyad]

139. to OGR-- just wanted to thank you for the wonderful thing you have set up, and to thank all the

DU'er's who, yesterday and this morning, demonstrated the truth of "we are family". you all are completely wonderful.

OGR, with your permission, I am going to spread word of your site to all my friends and contacts. This incredible idea needs to be spread far and wide.

[OneGrassRoot]

141. Oh, please do!!!

Thank you for the kind words, niyad!!! :hug:

I agree...DU sure showed what community is all about yesterday, and I'm tremendously grateful to be an observer in the process.

:grouphug:

PLEASE, PLEASE DO spread the word about Wishadoo!

The thing is, until more and more people take a leap of faith as Rocky did, we stay isolated in our daily struggles. It's not always monetary gestures that are needed -- there are so many ways we can come together as a community -- online and offline -- to ease the struggles of another, and release some of our own. Simply pointing someone in a direction to find the help they need can be a huge gift; when we're in the midst of the crisis or struggle, sometimes we can't see our way out, even if help is there.

We needed a focused place for this type of compassion -- a true grassroots community devoted to this intention without having to belong to a certain organization or religion or any other parameter. I don't live near family, and don't belong to any group locally which I could consider a support group, and I know many are like me. I identify with that sense of isolation and how frightening that can be.

So, Wishadoo came into being.

I will be working diligently to start spreading the word about Wishadoo in earnest now, and work toward offering ways of how I envision Wishadoo Communities taking root where we live, in our local communities.

It doesn't matter if the site is perfect -- it can do what it was created to do and I trust people will help create it -- groups and other features they need, we need -- right along with us.

Thank you for connecting to the idea and for wanting to spread the word. Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for that!

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

[RainDog]

145. you are an amazing person

who is doing a truly beautiful thing.

I also told people about this site today - some who could contribute to it and some who might need to use it.

[OneGrassRoot]

149. Awwww.....

that is so sweet, RainDog! I appreciate the kind words tremendously. I don't feel so amazing, but I do believe wholeheartedly in Wishadoo and its potential to empower others in this often brutal world. :hug: :hug: :hug:

Thank you so much for spreading the word. That's a huge gift in and of itself! :hug:

[Bluerthanblue]

140. this is just

AWESOME-

proof of why we still have reason to hope, why DU continues to be one of my favorite places on the net, how the compassion and community that exists in us can make this world a better place.

Thank you for posting this, for sharing the info.

:grouphug:

[OneGrassRoot]

142. ...

:hi:

:grouphug:

[Lisa0825]

143. kick

:kick:

[NCarolinawoman]

144. Just saw this....

:kick:for one of the good guys!

Thank you, OneGrassRoot, for bringing this to our attention!

:thumbsup: :)

[InvisibleTouch]

146. This is a great idea!

Glad to see Rocky has received the funds for a great new set of pearly whites. :)

I love the Wishadoo idea, but sadly I can't pitch in with money at this time. I'm wondering if there's something else I can offer. I'll keep checking out your site and see what ideas come to me.

[OneGrassRoot]

148. As more and more people post their needs, wishes and dreams...

I'm sure there will be something to help with. :) It's getting people there that is the challenge right now. Actually, just joining and participating by being part of a focus group is a huge help to me, so I thank you! :hug:

You know, Rocky and I had this same conversation, with him wondering how he could help another without having funds.

I told him: "You know, you can also post what YOU need."

And, as you see, him doing so gifted others with the opportunity to help HIM.

So, Dear InvisibleTouch and others reading, I encourage you to consider posting at Wishadoo what you need to make life easier, or post a dream you've wanted to get off the ground but just don't know how and need connections to do so. All of it matters.

Then see what others need which may not involve money (many things won't!) that you can help with, and perhaps you can gain assistance with something at the same time.

It all comes full circle.

That's my wish. :)

:hug:

[InvisibleTouch]

150. Kind-of a FreeCycle of Assistance concept, then.

Like on FreeCycle, you post what you have available to offer, and post for what you need.

About the only thing I can think of to offer right now is knowledge in various areas (pet care, gardening, self-sufficiency, biological sciences, etc.), but as people post their needs, there will hopefully be additional ideas. Maybe locally if people need help moving or transporting something, or making repairs, we can trade our skills among one another.

The only think I can think of that I immediately need, are a new set of windshield wipers. Hmm.

For advertising, I see you already have a Facebook page, so how about posting the site to various CraigsList forums around the country?

[OneGrassRoot]

151. Yes, whereas FreeCycle is mostly about "stuff"...

Wishadoo is truly for everything, except dating (;) and so long as it's legal). Everything you mentioned. And, what you have to offer IS valuable.

In fact, we'll be creating Wishadoo Groups focused on various areas of interest, so perhaps you would want to lead a group about your areas of expertise. :think:

It's truly a work in progress and, as I mentioned before, DUers are helping to "seed" it and are essentially a focus group (and I can't think of a more valuable focus group to help create this new way).

Posting ideas about the site itself and about the concept of Wishadoo at the discussion forum would be tremendously helpful. (I just noticed people are posting there, so I need to check that out!) :bounce:

And it's about genuinely creating communities in the process. We're getting a mailout ready to members. Rocky sharing his story is going to be the big launch. His courage opened doors and I believe his words are what we need to share...

He's working on it now (no pressure, though, Rocky! lol).

Hey, the craigslist idea is a great idea! Maybe that's a specific project we can ask people to do on our behalf, as we can't (last I remember) post the same thing in multiple cities/regions without it being flagged as spam?

Thanks again! :hi:

[Ignis]

147. Le coup de pied!

:kick:

[niyad]

152. kick for anybody who might have missed this