Donald F. Cohen, DDS of Houston Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center provides medical care to victims of domestic violence through local non-profit organization
Nearly one in four women and one out of every seven men aged 18 and older in the United States have been the victim of domestic abuse. These shocking statistics show the reality of what many people face, but most are too ashamed to speak up about. Houston-based oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Donald F. Cohen, takes time out of his busy oral surgery practice to support those affected by this violent act by serving as a member on the Board of Directors of Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) in Houston.
In 2004, Dr. Cohen served as part of the “Dream Team” that helped Carolyn Thomas, a Midland, Texas native, who, on December 5, 2003, suffered terrible facial injuries when she was shot at point-blank range by her abuser. Dr. Cohen and a team at Methodist Hospital in Houston performed numerous reconstructive surgeries on her over a two-year period to help restore her health and her confidence.
Since then, Dr. Cohen has committed his time outside his thriving oral surgery practice to support other victims through AVDA, a non-profit organization that provides legal, educational and intervention services to families that are victimized by domestic violence.
“This terrible act can have profound life-changing effects on those victimized,” said Dr. Cohen. “I am fortunate to have the opportunity to provide victims with the confidence they lost by restoring their facial aesthetics through reconstructive surgery.”
Dr. Cohen specializes in a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures at Houston Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, including facial trauma, jaw reconstruction, bone grafts, and implant dentistry. Since these are the primary surgeries that victims of domestic abuse often need after experiencing violent attacks, oral and maxillofacial surgeons like Dr. Cohen are key members of most emergency room trauma centers. In addition to supporting AVDA, Dr. Cohen has hospital privileges at Houston Methodist Hospital and Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center Hospital, where he is called upon in cases of domestic abuse and other facial trauma situations.
“I have seen people of all ages and backgrounds who have faced these distressing situations,” said Dr. Cohen. “I encourage anyone who has been through something like this to seek the help that will get them back on their feet and into a healthy situation.”
For years, Dr. Cohen has supported various community organizations, such as the Bering Omega Clinic and Healthcare for the Homeless Clinic (SEARCH), providing dental and medical services to those in need. Through these groups, he offers complimentary oral surgery care for people who are living with the HIV/AIDS virus as well as homeless individuals.
Latest posts by Donald Cohen (see all)
- Houston Oral Surgeon Supports Fight Against Domestic Abuse – November 17, 2014
