Emrhys' Top Surgery Fund

Hello! My name is Emrhys ("Em-Ris") or Rhys. I live in Baltimore, Maryland, and I work for Johns Hopkins as a Clinical Cancer Research Coordinator. I am a writer, and an enormous geek of the science fiction/fantasy/video games & roleplaying games variety. I am also a transmasculine non-binary individual in search of my authentic self.

I'm writing to you today to ask for help - not something that comes easily to me. But I know my community is out there, and will lend an ear and a shoulder. I have struggled with gender dysphoria for most of my life. Long before I had words to describe what I was feeling, I knew that something was wrong. I was not comfortable in my body, especially after the changes wrought by puberty. It is only in the last few years, with access to therapy and gender-affirming medical care, that I begin to feel at home and peace with myself. Now it is time to take the next big step on that journey: Top Surgery.

The date for my chest masculinization procedure is July 19th, 2023. I am lucky enough to work for a supportive, progressive institution, that provides its employees with good health insurance. However, gender-affirming surgical care is not covered 100%. Also, I am raising funds for the time I'll need to focus on recovering. I will be out of work for a minimum of three to four weeks. I am extraordinarily fortunate to be able to have this done; however, the timing is much sooner than I had anticipated. Any additional funds would take a lot of weight off my shoulders.

I want to thank you for taking the time to read through this letter. The world as we know it can be a scary place. A little bit of kindness and empathy goes a long way. Thank you for being a part of my community.

<3, Rhys