As a dentist and former musician who experienced the vibrancy of Seattle’s music scene firsthand, supporting initiatives like SMASH (Seattle Musicians Access to Sustainable Healthcare) holds a special significance for me. I’m excited to share our involvement with SMASH and how it’s making a positive impact on our community.
SMASH is a unique, non-profit foundation dedicated to providing access to healthcare services for Seattle musicians and the musical arts workforce. Founded on the principle of connecting individuals with vital healthcare resources, SMASH offers a wide range of services, often at no cost to its members.
As the founding dental provider for SMASH, I recognized the need for comprehensive dental care within our artistic community. While emergency dental services were available at public health clinics, there was a lack of access to advanced dental treatments, surgery, tooth replacement, and preventative care.
The story begins with me, in another life in Seattle in the late 90s as a musician, making art, touring, working, making friends. Years later, I’m a full-blown dentist. In 2019, with some of the same friends, we hit the Mother Love Bone reunion show. We headed down to The Neptune Theater to see some friendly faces perform. That night was powerful. The artists and the vibe from the audience rocked us.
That reunion proved how music is essential. It’s instrumental when celebrating together, coping with challenges, and it inspires us to create stronger bonds when starting new journeys. Right there at The Neptune, we knew we could provide a missing resource of dental care for those essential musicians in our community. Without the opportunity to get and stay healthy, how can we expect our artists to create what is vital for us all? Mondie said, “I think you should find out how you can help.” My answer was, “absolutely.”
We’re fortunate to help keep Seattle’s music healthy and growing. There’s a cost required to provide the dental care, but it’s so worth it to me. Five years into our partnership with SMASH, I’m proud to say that we’re making a difference in the lives of its members. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our team at Lyons Creek Dental Care, as well as the support of other providers and volunteers in the community.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to this initiative, from our team members to the generous donors who make it all possible. Together, we’re helping to keep Seattle’s music scene healthy and thriving.
If you’d like to learn more about SMASH and how you can support their mission, I encourage you to visit www.SMASHSeattle.org. Your donation can make a difference in the lives of local musicians, ensuring they have access to essential healthcare services.
Thank you for joining us in supporting Seattle’s music community. Together, we can make a lasting impact and ensure that our artists continue to create and inspire for years to come.
