Hi everyone,

Three years ago, I began my transition from Christian to Khris — a step that saved me, healed me, and finally allowed me to breathe.

For most of my life, I lived with a deep conflict inside myself. I struggled with my mental health, feeling lost, angry, confused, and depressed. I used to call these feelings “the monkey,” because it never left me alone — always on my back, always heavy. Over time, that monkey became a gorilla, and carrying it alone became impossible.

Starting hormone therapy 2.5 years ago — something I could only do thanks to the kindness and generosity of others — changed everything. Slowly, I began to feel peace for the first time. I found happiness where I never expected it. I discovered pride in my queer identity, built friendships with people who truly see me, and found a partner I love with all my heart. My life now feels fuller, warmer, and more honest than I ever believed it could.

But getting here has not been easy. When I came out at my previous job, I faced intense bullying and behaviour that left scars I still carry. I had to walk away from a role I loved, and for the past year I’ve lived on reduced income while trying to rebuild myself. I now have a new job — a fresh start — but I’m also supporting my child at university next year, and I’m managing with limited funds.

As I approach 51, I feel an urgent, heartfelt need to continue my transition. These next steps are not luxuries or whims; they are essential to my wellbeing, my health, and my ability to live the rest of my life as myself. I wish I could fund these procedures on my own, but I can’t, and the NHS is not realistically able to support me. Asking for help is humbling, but living authentically is something I owe to myself. I have made every decision with care, research, and deep self-reflection.

The procedures I need, in order of importance, are:

Hormone-corrective surgery, so I can regulate my transition safely and stop relying on harsh medication that strains my liver and isn’t meant for long-term use; and

Cosmetic surgeries, to help my body reflect who I am and allow me to move through the world with greater safety, confidence, and peace.

I’m sharing these openly because I want you to know exactly what your kindness would support.

I also want to say something very important:

I especially welcome support from people who are not trans or queer. Your compassion means so much. When someone outside the community reaches out, it reminds me that empathy has no boundaries, and that understanding grows when we invite each other in. If any of this is unfamiliar to you, please ask me questions. I want this to be a space for learning, connection, and human kindness.

None of this is a choice. This is who I am, and asking for help is simply part of the reality trans people often face. All I hope for is that you can meet my story with an open heart in a world that can be unkind to those who live their truth.

As a way to give something back, in the new year I’ll be organising supper clubs and other gatherings. These will be open to everyone — the simple joy of sharing food and conversation will sit at the heart of this. Your support will not only help me heal; it will help me create spaces of gratitude, connection, and joy.

Thank you for reading this. Thank you for caring. Thank you for seeing me.

With love and deep gratitude,

Khris