About a year and a half ago, I started temping at Lindquist Dental Clinic for Children in Pierce County. I told the dental director, Dr. Stephens, “I don’t really like kids,” half-joking, half-honest. She smiled and said, “Just try it.”
I did. And it changed me.
What started as a way to fill a few open days became a place where I’ve felt most myself – while treating children. I’ve worked in a variety of dental settings, but nothing has matched the warmth and impact of this nonprofit clinic, which has served kids across the South Sound since 1936.
Dr. Stephens, one of the few Black women in dental leadership I’ve ever worked with, has led the clinic for 15 years. Her office smells like a warm candle and displays a poster about equity vs. equality – subtle but powerful reminders of the values guiding this place.
The team reflects that same spirit. One assistant, a former teacher, connects with children instantly. Several others speak Spanish, making care accessible and comforting for many families.
Source: Slashing Medicaid payments puts Tacoma kids’ dental care at risk | Opinion / MSN