Help Cat Afford Facial Feminization Surgery
My name is Cat Graffam, I am an artist, educator and bad tweet maker from Boston. I'm also transgender (let’s all act fake surprised). My transition began back in early 2014 and while hormone replacement therapy has does amazing things like redistribute fat amongst my body and allow me to spew poisonous venom from my eyeballs at my enemies, it can't reduce my bone structure. Testosterone did irreversible damage to my already very awkward body which now can only be undone with surgery.
In July I am planning on undergoing two procedures on my face performed by Dr. Bensimon in Montreal, QB that will drastically improve my life by alleviating an incredible amount of gender dysphoria. The first will be rhinoplasty (nose job) and the other a forehead reduction. These areas in particular are the most intense sources of dysphoria I experience and honestly make everyday difficult to get through.
Back in November of 2015, I had two procedures done by Dr. Spiegel; a trachea shave and a chin reduction. To afford this I spent my entire life savings (oops) and maxed out my credit card and while I walked away flat broke, the quality of life I was given back is indescribable. I have no doubt that this coming surgery will do the same.
Here is a cost breakdown:
Surgery: ~$15,500USD ($20,500CAD)
Hospital fee for 1 night: ~$700USD ($950CAD)
TOTAL: ~$16,200
This may seem like an astronomically high number, but it is actually ½ the price of what I have been quoted by a US surgeon for the same procedures. Montreal is only about a 4.5hr drive from where I live and to cut down on cost and the embarrassment of traveling in public with a busted face I have decided to drive. I lived in Montreal for several months in the beginning of my transition, which helps. My lovely partner will be with me the entire time, taking care of me after the surgery until we come back to the US.
Even though I have a mildly successful career as a painter, and also have three other jobs, there is no way in hell I can afford this in my current position. Such is the life of a millennial. This is why I am asking strangers on the internet for money. I have enough saved for the initial required down payment of 20%, but I need help with the remaining amount. Help ya girl out! Every single dollar makes a legitimate difference and will go towards significantly bettering my life. If you can’t donate (which is totally legit), sharing this is incredibly appreciated.
Thank you so much,
- Cat
