Hi friends!!

My beautiful partner, Darby, is undergoing top surgery this month. Since we've met, and for more than a decade in their journey, top surgery has been their largest personal goal.

When we lived in Lincoln, this dream had to be put on hold due to the ongoing demonization of trans people in Nebraska and the inaccessibility of trans healthcare. Now that we live in Chicago, not only have they been given access to the healthcare that they've longed for, but the privilege to choose their surgeon.

Darby has found an amazing surgeon in-network, just an hour outside of the city. They're scheduled for Nov. 24th, and will be out of work for 6 weeks. With the procedure being soon, there are still some expenses that we have not been able to prepare for on our own, including being out of a stream of income for 4, possibly 6 weeks. Darby will be able to collect disability during most of this time (after a week post-op), which will supplement a significant portion of their income, but those benefits do not extend to the caretaker. I have enough PTO to take 1 of these weeks off paid, but the remaining weeks will be unpaid.

It is our highest priority to make sure that Darby is healthy, loved, and well-taken care of during this time. They are the most selfless and loving person I have ever met, and it would mean the world to them to have this support from their community.

Unfortunately, even with insurance and savings, the costs are significant. Between the procedure itself, pre-op and post-op care, travel expenses to and from the surgical center, and a minimum of 6 weeks off work for their recovery, 4 weeks off to be able to care for them full-time, we’re looking for a goal of around $3,500. Any money raised during this campaign will go directly to medical bills and sustaining Darby during this time. As such, I'm asking for your help if you are in a position for it! If you're able to contribute—whether it’s monetary or just sharing this link—it would mean the world to us.

Thank you for reading, donating, and sharing!