Casey's Bottom Surgery Fundraiser

Hey folks! My name is Casey and I am raising funds to cover the costs associated with the next major step in my medical transition: hysterectomy and phalloplasty. At age 17 I began my journey in transitioning into the man I was born to be. I am thankful that I was able to start testosterone and hormone replacement therapy when I was 18, in October 2016. In March 2018, I underwent a double mastectomy, better known as top surgery, and was so fortunate to have my mom to help take care of me and my dad's insurance pay for the entire procedure. These steps in my transition were important to me, not only to be read correctly as a man by strangers on the street, but also to feel at home in my own body. To be able to look in the mirror and say, "Hey, that's me".

Dysphoria is the word for the anxiety, depression, fear, discomfort, and agony I feel because my body does not align with my soul. On my worst days, I struggle to get out of bed because I can't bear to acknowledge that my vessel lives in this body. I used to pray that one day I would wake up and I'd have the right parts. Top surgery relieved so much pain because I could get rid of the parts that I knew didn't belong to me and were not mine to own or live in. When that cloud of discomfort was lifted, I started having more dysphoria for my bottom bits.

I never wanted to have surgery on my genitals. I mean, come on, that sounds atrocious- who wants someone coming at their private parts with scapels? I convinced myself I wasn't happy with the options available to me and that I could learn to live with what God gave me... Until I couldn't. The absence of something that I knew should be attached to me but wasn't grew until I couldn't lie to myself anymore- I needed to take this step. I am grateful that my husband supported me in coming to this decision. Helping him through his journey led to me finding my truth.

So! I'm here to ask for donations to help fund my penis and my living expenses associated with major surgery and recovery. Surgery is currently scheduled for November 29th, 2022. Insurance will cover most of the cost. However, I have $5,000 left until my out-of-pocket maximum is met. Additionally, I have electrolysis sessions to pay for at $95/hour with 2 hours a week. I have estimated $300-500 on supplies needed for recovery (comfy chair, bandages, special tools, etc.) and included the majority of rent for three months, as I will be unable to work during recovery. Altogether, my estimate as of today's date, 5/23/2022, is about $10,000. On the plus side- I have about two grand in savings and can contribute about $200 per paycheck for the next six months.

I'm asking for your help because I know I have so many people who love and care about me. They understand that this is not a cosmetic procedure and it is life-saving: dysphoria leads to suicidal thoughts; this procedure will lessen my dysphoria and my suicidal thoughts. Folks who know me best know that I hate asking people for anything, especially help and especially money. I am here because I feel the love and support and know I can count on ya'll.

I am more than happy to answer any and all questions about my transition, this procedure, and my life. Really nothing can be more awkward than repeatedly saying the word "penis" in conversation with my mother. So ask away. But seriously, thank you and I love you all.