Em's Top Surgery Fund

Over the past few years, Em has lived with chest dysphoria, which has caused them great discomfort in their day-to-day life. They wear a binder nearly every day, and while this has sustained them the past two years, it’s becoming clear that this is no longer a viable remedy for their dysphoria. Because of this, they consulted with a gender-affirming surgeon here in Houston, who has scheduled them for surgery in July.

Unfortunately, Em’s medical insurance has back tracked after initially confirming that the surgery would be covered. The total bill for the surgery is $10,185. Between budgeting and picking up an extra job, they believe they can save the bulk of the total amount, about $6,000, leading up to the July surgery date. It’s our hope that this campaign will ease the immediate cost of the surgery.

As an out trans teacher in Texas, Em is a role model for students who identify as LGBTQ. In Texas alone, there were 141 anti-trans bills introduced in the Texas Legislature in 2023, most of those were aimed at trans youth. Given the current political climate, many of Em’s trans students actively seek them out for support. In response to this, they created their high school’s first LGBTQ club, Genders and Sexualities Alliance Club. The club is intended to create a space for students to gather with their peers free from the judgement and harassment they encounter on a daily basis.

This is not the first time Em has created such a space for the LGBTQ community. While working at Momentum Indoor Climbing Gym, they created Houston Queer Climbers, a group that aimed to create a community of young LGBTQ adults and allies through their love of climbing. Both clubs still regularly meet and have become like a second family for many of the members. Em’s desire to create community wherever they go has positively affected many lives, and they continue to be a vital member of their community.

With this fundraiser, we hope to give back the support that they so willingly give to those who need it most. Anything helps to support them through their transition. Thank you.

-Avery