Hi, my name is Leah, I'm 21 years old and I’m a transgender woman from Mexico.

I'm going through one of the most difficult moments of my life.

From a young age, I knew my identity didn’t match the body I was born in. But growing up in an environment where being trans was met with prejudice or mockery forced me to hide who I truly was. Today, I’m ready to live my truth — but the road is far from easy, and even further from affordable.

One of the most painful aspects of my dysphoria is my face. Every time I look in the mirror, I feel deep sadness and disconnection. I don’t recognize myself. It’s hard to go outside without feeling terrible with myself, I even stopped hanging out with friends ever since dysphoria got worse some years ago. Facial Feminization Surgery isn’t a cosmetic luxury — it’s a vital step toward peace, safety, and the freedom to exist.

I’ve tried everything to raise the money: working, saving, even selling personal belongings. But the cost of surgery is simply out of reach for someone in my situation. Each passing day takes a toll on my mental health, living with this constant distress of not feeling at home in my own body.

That’s why I’m asking for help. It’s not easy for me to open up like this, but I do it because this surgery could change everything — my self-esteem, my chance at fair employment, my confidence in public spaces, and most of all… my right to live with dignity.

Any amount, no matter how small, gives me hope.

If you can’t donate, even sharing this campaign would mean the world to me.

Thank you for reading my story. Thank you for believing in me.

— Leah