Hi! My name is CJ (he/they), and I'm a 28 year old transgender male. I'm starting this GFM to help cover the costs of Top Surgery and related expenses.

I have been binding my chest for 10+ years at this point in my life, and within the past two years it has caused several medical issues, the worst being a partial lung collapse in late 2019. Around that time I decided to start seriously looking into top surgery.....and the world shut down.

Jobless in 2020 I resumed my search, and found a surgeon whom I thought would accept my insurance. I placed myself on a waiting list, and in March of 2021, received a call for a consultation. I was disappointed to hear that the center no longer fully accepted my insurance, but they were willing to bill at in-network rates. After dead-end phone calls elsewhere, I pushed forward.

Flash forward to June. I've recently started a new job, and I get a call from the surgery center that my insurance has given me a three month window to have this procedure done. My job has graciously granted me the time off needed for this surgery, though I will be without a paycheck during this time, as I'm still well before my 90-day new hire period. My partner is unfortunately still furloughed due to the pandemic, but will be returning to work in July.

My surgery date is scheduled for 6/30, and I am beyond terrified and excited all at once.

This GFM is for costs that I do not currently have, or am borrowing in order for this much needed surgery to happen.

Cost breakdown is as follows:

$4200 for cost of surgery

$1900 for rent and bills

$1900 for hotel and travel

Any potential leftover funds will be redistributed to other LGBTQ+ folks in need.

Thank you so so much for taking the time to read this, and support me on this journey. I sincerely appreciate any and all help.

Much love, CJ. ♥️