A hard-working waiter, Brian Maixner of Wichita, Kansas, has received a tip that will change his life and give him plenty of reasons to smile. A patron at the Doo-Dah Diner, where Maixner works, has given the man an estimated $25,000 worth of dental work.
“It’s so great. It’s a huge weight off of my shoulders,” Maixner told the Daily News. “I just have this new appreciation for my health.”
Maixner has suffered from tooth decay and missing teeth for years, but, according to KWCH News in Wichita, the single father could not afford dental care. When younger, his family could not afford dental care in Arlington and over the last six years, his teeth have really begun to deteriorate.
“He was just hustling from table to table. He was a real pro. I could tell,” said Fred Boettcher, the generous donor of the dental work to NPR. “But he was just smiling from ear to ear. And, God, he had the awfullest teeth you’ve ever seen. It just seemed like the natural thing to do. And my judgment is that if you can do it, you should do it. It’s just such a high to be able to help somebody that really is deserving of help but has not received any from anyone, you know? That’s the kicker here, I think.”
Boettcher had dental problems when he was younger and wanted to send the server to his own dentist. The dentist is treating Maixner, has pulled his remaining teeth and fitted him for dentures. The waiter will be getting implants over the following months. All of which has been paid for by Boettcher.
“I took one look at this young man and knew he was something special,” Boettcher said. “He carried himself with such kindness and confidence with a mouth that looked painful. I was struck by that.”
Meredith Boettcher Young, Fred’s daughter, said about her father’s generosity, “It’s so strange that this gift is spreading like wildfire. Dad gives so much, I remember him buying groceries for people in need when we were growing up.”
Customers and friends have already noticed the difference with the new smile. Maixner’s regular customers noticed the dental work, immediately.
“They all said ‘Wow!'” Maixner said. “Me too. I’m still looking at the mirror!”
