Richland man selected for life-changing surgery gets new smile

KENNEWICK, Wash. — A Richland father was given a life-changing gift on Monday, a $30,000 surgery for a new smile.

Columbia Basin Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons selected Brian Willard out of hundreds of applicants after 10 years of being unable to afford dental work due to lack of insurance.

Willard has worked hard as a delivery man for most of his life while raising two boys. His family says his teeth have hindered him from socializing and have caused him a lot of pain over the years.

“Mouth pain, pain in my face, swelling, but I’ve been dealing with it for so long that it’s normal for me. It’s more of a nuisance than anything,” said Willard.

Brian said he looks forward to smiling in photos with his sons again.