Hi! My name is Ellis (they/them) and I identify as non-binary transmasculine. I have been passionate about giving back to my community, especially by volunteering at the Pride Center of New Jersey, including starting and facilitating multiple support groups and organizing events. I love hiking, playing music with folks, rocking out on my djembe, participating in drum circles, and being in nature.

For the past two and a half years, I have been on a journey to find myself and to live authentically and to be unapologetically me. It's been a long road of self-discovery and healing past trauma. I could not have done this alone. With the help of my therapist, support groups, and amazing friends, I have slowly but surely started to embrace my sexuality and my gender identity. Unfortunately, I suffer from quite severe dysphoria related to my chest. It is keeping me from truly living the life that I want to live and that I know I deserve.

On December 9th of this year, I am scheduled for top surgery. The hospital bills are, as you can imagine, quite staggering. My insurance covers most of the cost, but I do have a substantial out of pocket cost. On top of that, I also have to go on disability leave from work for 2 weeks, which will only cover 60% of my salary.

Anything that you can contribute will be going towards helping to cover my hospital bills.

Thanks so much for your generosity!