Emmett's Top Surgery Fund
My name is Emmett Downey and I'm a 19 year old female-to-male transgender man living in Gander, Newfoundland. I've been on testosterone hormone replacement therapy since June 2016, this was the beginning of my medical transition. The next step in my transition is to have a double mastectomy followed by chest contouring to remove my breasts and give my chest the appearance that of a man's. Unfortunately, the province of Newfoundland considers this a cosmetic surgery and it is not currently covered under health insurance. Please continue reading to further understand my situation and why I'm setting up a fundraiser for myself.
Pre-HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
August 2018
I began binding my chest shortly after my 16th birthday as I slowly began my social transition into a man, often times I would, and still have to, bind for up to 16 hours a day - between school at the time, work, and otherwise having social life or commitments. Due to the size of my chest I have no other choice than to bind in public, especially now as I exclusively pass as male.
This has put significant strain on my ribs and lower back, as well as permanently limiting my lung capacity. Whether I am binding or not it has left me with chronic pain, making household chores as simple as washing dishes painful. Once I was able to carry a significant amount of weight myself but now I cannot carry anything more than 25 or 30 lbs without worsening my pain not just for the day but for many days after.
I did not want to turn to publicly asking for donations, but between the costs of living, paying off a student loan, and the cost of medications I have been unable to put any money away for this surgery which seems to become more urgent as the months pass.
Including travel and the cost of the surgery itself it will come to approximately $10,000 CAD, which I can in no way come up with myself at this time in my life, but as my health deteriorates further it has become a crucial procedure that I just cannot afford at themoment.
I stress the fact that there is no pressure to donate, but if you are able to even spread the message I would be extremely grateful. Any and all funds raised through this campaign will go towards saving for my surgery.
Thank you for taking the time to read, share, or donate. ❤️
Best,
Emmett
