Support Margaret's Transition

I met Margaret (they/she) eight years ago, during our freshman year of college. From the moment we met, there was an undeniable connection, a sense that we would be in each other's lives forever. At 18, everything was different. Margaret went by a different name and looked very different. I still identified as straight, and I was sure I was going to marry a man (lol). We were both naive, unsure of who we were, and yet so eager to figure it out. What we didn’t know then was just how much we’d grow, change, and evolve over the years.

Through countless struggles and triumphs, we’ve had our fair share of deaths and rebirths of identity, but what has always remained constant is our radical love and acceptance for each other—through every change, every challenge. We’ve supported each other as we’ve become truer to ourselves, embracing our growth with open arms.

Margaret has taught me so much. They’ve shown me the power of loving oneself unconditionally and proudly stepping into your truest form. They’ve taught me the beauty of empathy, of seeing the world through a lens of softness and kindness. Margaret moves through life with a heart that is constantly uplifting those around them, with a listening ear, a gentle smile, and a tenderness that touches everyone they meet. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them, and I know there are many people in their life who feel the same.

So, let me tell you about my best friend, the one who makes the world a better place. Margaret works at a flower shop, creating beautiful arrangements that bring joy and love to the Denver community. They’re a master at video games (much to my dismay when we are playing Mario Party), and a total movie buff with an encyclopedic knowledge of their favorite movies (which they are of course always willing to share whether you asked for it or not). They are a natural comedian, and despite no longer being in a comedy group like they were in college, they never fail to make any space their stage with their sharp wit and charisma. Our home, a cozy haven full of plants and vintage charm, is a reflection of Margaret’s unique spirit. Their witchy instincts and spiritual connection to nature fill every room with dried flowers, fragrant incense, crystals, and art. It’s truly a space full of magic, and I am so incredibly lucky to share it with them. Margaret is, quite simply, my favorite human in the world.

Over the last few years, Margaret has been on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and transition. They now use they/she pronouns, go by a name that brings them peace, and express themselves in a way that feels authentic and true to who they are. In May of 2025, Margaret will be making another brave leap. They are moving to Portland, Oregon - a lush, queer haven they’ve always felt drawn to. While the thought of them leaving breaks my heart, I am beyond proud of them for following their heart and pursuing a life that aligns with their true self.

As they take this next step in their journey, I want to give Margaret a gift—a fund that will help them continue to seek out the changes, medical or otherwise, that will allow them to live as their truest self. Margaret deserves to feel fully at home in their body, and I humbly ask for your support in helping make that possible.

Your donations will help Margaret with things like buying hairpieces or wigs, investing in laser hair removal, purchasing feminine clothing and accessories, or starting a fund for gender-affirming surgeries if they choose to pursue them.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will help Margaret step even more fully into the person they are meant to be. I am so grateful for your support in helping me give my best friend the gift of self-love, acceptance, and the freedom to live authentically.

Thank you for being a part of this journey.

- Maria Erlandson