Hi, I’m Emme. For those who don’t know me, I’m a 46-year-old trans woman who began transitioning in my early 40s. Starting hormone therapy at 42 was a life-changing step, and I’m so grateful to have been able to take it. Over the past few years, my body has changed in some beautiful ways, but not all of the ones I’d hoped for have come ... gender dysphoria still lingers because of that. I’m ready to take the next step to feel more at home in myself!

In 2024, I had Facial Feminization Surgery through the gender clinic at the Ottawa Hospital with the amazing Dr. Cormier. It was incredible, affirming, life-changing and also very, very expensive. I paid out of pocket and am still climbing out of that financial hole. That’s part of why asking for support now feels so vulnerable.

Transitioning later in life makes dysphoria louder and harder to manage. Procedures like breast augmentation don’t just help, they feel life-saving. I’ve already spent much of my life not feeling fully myself and the longer I wait to feel at home in my body, the less time I have to actually enjoy it. And I don’t want to keep putting that joy on hold.

Sadly, provincial healthcare doesn’t cover this procedure, nor does my insurance (womp womp, welcome to trans healthcare). Thankfully, Dr. Cormier has generously given me a discount on the quote, which brings the total cost to $14,294.50 CAD. To reserve a surgery date, I need to make a $1,500 deposit.

I’m turning to this incredible community that’s been by my side emotionally through so much already. I know a financial ask is big (especially given the current state *gestures to everything*) and not everyone is in a place to give. But whether it’s a donation, a share, or simply some encouragement, it all helps and means the world to me. Thank you so much for your love and support.

Love,

Emme (pronounced like the letter M)