Hi everyone, my name is Vi (they/them). I'm a third year student at San Francisco State University double majoring in Political Science and Asian American Studies. I am a student organizer, writer, amateur ceramicist, tattoo lover, friend, partner, child, eldest sibling, auntie, and niece.

Over the last year I've battled Medi-Cal (to even have it and keep it) and to complete the process of getting a gender affirming breast reduction. My surgery is scheduled for January 13, 2026 and I received a call on December 29, 2025 that my surgery is not covered and I have the option to appeal. Of course with the time constraint I am worried it won't be accepted at all or in time for my surgery.

Two years ago I was supposed to receive my surgery back home in Boston but due to other insurance issues and a lack of support I decided to cancel it. Meaning I have gone through the approval, consultation, and scheduling process two separate times in both Massachusetts and California.

Being able to receive my surgery this coming January is hugely important to me to be able to continue to live my life without dysphoria and without the mental toll of fighting insurance providers. Due to school and work, winter break is the only optimal time for me to get this surgery considering I would need to be off for at least 2 weeks, part of what makes this update so frustrating.

Anything anyone is able to donate is so helpful and I am eternally grateful to my community for their support, financial and otherwise. San Francisco is the home I always longed for and being able to live and go to school here and make the friends and community that are holding me through this has meant everything to me over the last two and a half years. I would be happy to make everyone a ceramic something for my gratitude :)

update 1/2: the GCC quoted me $14,750 for the surgery, anesthesia, and facility fees. there is a slight chance switching facilities will allow it to be covered.

update 2/20: with my savings i was able to pay for surgery in early Jan and received it on 1/13 my original date! thank you all so much for your generosity!!! my anesthia bill came back $1000 more than the quote (totalling $2550). i have already paid $200 and can pay in installments since i want to avoid draining my savings again.