Inflation has hit the United States hard, with a shocking 4.2 percent rate in July, the highest in decades. This economic pressure has forced businesses, incIuding Dollar Tree, known for selling items at $1, to make significant adjustments.
Dollar Tree faced a decline in stock prices, dropping nearly seventeen percent in one trading session, as it grappled with rising shipping costs and the need to combat inflation. Dollar Tree’s decision to sell items for more than a dollar came after investors saw a hit of $1.50 to $1.60 per share of profits, a substantiaI blow for a retailer focused on the one-dollar price point.
The company cited the economic challenges posed by inflation and the pandemic as reasons for the pricing adjustments. CEO Michael Witynski acknowledged the shift in a prepared statement, stating, For decades, our customers have enjoyed the ‘thrill-of-the-hunt’ for vaIue at one dollar – and we remain committed to that core proposition – but many are telling us that they also want a broader product assortment when they come to shop.
Despite the drop in stock prices, Dollar Tree emphasized its commitment to providing value to customers. Witynski stated, We will continue to be fierceIy protective of that promise, regardless of the price point, whether it is $1.00, $1.25, $1.50.
The announcement sparked mixed reactions among customers, with concerns about the impact of the price change on the store’s appeal. While the stock prices have shown signs of recovery, the decision to sell items for more than a dollar raises questions about whether customers will continue to shop at Dollar Tree.
In a market where consumer goods are becoming more expensive due to increased shipping costs and inflation, retailers face the challenging task of balancing prices to remain competitive and meet customer expectations. Whether Dollar Tree can navigate these economic challenges whiIe retaining its customer base remains to be seen.
Fake “doctor” injected her face with cement—see her transformation 14 years later
Rajee Narinesingh gained widespread attention after being dubbed “Cement Face,” following a black market plastic surgery disaster in the mid-2000s. The surgery, performed by the infamous “toxic tush doctor” Oneal Ron Morris, involved injecting Narinesingh with a harmful mixture of cement, superglue, and tire sealant. This caused severe deformities in her face and body. Fortunately, Narinesingh later appeared on the TV show Botched, where professional surgeons helped repair the damage.
Here’s a closer look at Rajee’s life, her journey to recovery, and what she looks like today.
Rajee Narinesingh’s Early Life
Born in New York on April 7, 1967, Narinesingh knew from a young age that she was different from other boys. Raised in Philadelphia, she felt more like a woman inside and struggled with her identity. As she grew older, she decided to undergo several plastic surgeries, but the high costs led her to seek cheaper, unregulated options.
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The Black Market Surgery
In 2005, Narinesingh met Oneal Ron Morris, who falsely claimed to be a plastic surgeon. Desperate to align her physical appearance with her gender identity, Narinesingh agreed to receive injections from Morris. The substances used, including cement and superglue, left her face and other body parts severely deformed.
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Narinesingh paid just $100 per session and received around ten injections between 2007 and 2010. Initially excited, she soon faced the nightmare of hardened lumps forming under her skin, leaving her horrified and housebound.
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Recovery and Transformation
Too embarrassed to seek help from the police, Narinesingh felt like a “monster.” But in 2012, she found hope with Dr. John Martin of Coral Gables Cosmetic Reconstructive Surgery, who treated her with softening injections and laser therapy. Her transformation from victim to victorious continued when she appeared on Botched in 2016. Over seven weeks, she underwent four surgeries to remove the toxic fillers, regaining her confidence and self-esteem. She even began dating again, humorously recalling a man calling her a “sexy dragon.”
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Life Today
Narinesingh has since become a prominent public figure, advocating for transgender rights and educating others about the dangers of black market procedures. She’s appeared on over 30 television shows globally and has written three books about her experiences. Now living in Florida, she works with the LGBTQ community and spreads awareness about HIV prevention.
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Narinesingh has embraced her journey, calling the hardships she endured a “blessing” because they allowed her to amplify her advocacy work. She’s active on Instagram, sharing her life and inspiring others.
Oneal Ron Morris’ Fate
Morris was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2017 after one of her patients died. In 2021, Morris reached out to Narinesingh, seeking forgiveness. Despite the past, Narinesingh accepted Morris’ apology, reflecting her belief in learning from mistakes and growing stronger from adversity.
A Brave Survivor
Rajee Narinesingh’s story is one of incredible resilience and transformation. From the devastating effects of illegal surgery to reclaiming her life, she continues to inspire others with her activism and courage.
Share this inspiring story to spread awareness and celebrate Rajee’s strength.
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