Help Andrew Get Top Surgery

Hello! My name is Andrew. I might know you, in which case: hello, and thank you for coming by. I might not know you, in which case: hello, and welcome to my crowdfunding corner.

I’m a trans man, among other things. Through my work as a social worker, I provide psychotherapy to youth who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness – many of whom, partly due to the overrepresentation of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth among those experiencing homelessness, are queer and/or trans. Prior to that, including over the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked in shelters and supportive housing, predominantly with 2SLGBTQIA+ folks and folks living with HIV.

Top surgery is the next milestone of my transition, and transition, to me, has always been about becoming. There is power in transformation, and chief among this has been finding a sense of connection to and comfortability with my body.

Unfortunately, OHIP only covers part of the surgery, and the funds that I had saved for the rest of the procedure were redirected to a family emergency earlier this year. I don’t like to ask for things, which is something that I’m working on. Through my work with youth, I often find myself discussing the importance of leaning on others for support. And so I’m asking, if you’re able, to help me accomplish this next big step.

In the event that we collect enough to exceed the cost of the surgery, any and all extra funds raised will go to Friends of Ruby, an organization in Toronto that serves 2SLGBTQIA+ youth through housing, case management, counselling, and other vital supports.

I am deeply appreciative of all the people in my life who have been there to support me along the way, including now. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you, and I’m grateful for all of you.