Help AnDrea (aka Tiffany) Heal, Recover & Shine!

Heyy Loves,

After four long and challenging years of fighting, advocating, and waiting—I’m finally scheduled to receive a life-changing surgery on May 27th, and I can hardly believe it’s real. This surgery marks the first major step in my journey toward gender-affirming care, and just as importantly, it will directly address my hip dysplasia and chronic health issues that have impacted my mobility and quality of life for years.

As a Black Disabled Trans Woman, this surgery isn’t just about healing—it’s about survival, affirmation, and building a future where I can thrive in my body and my career. I’m so grateful for this next chapter, but I’m also navigating a harsh reality:

The recovery will be extensive, and I’ll be unable to perform for at least three weeks—right in the middle of Pride Week, one of the most crucial times for income in Philly’s drag and nightlife scene. As many of you know, missing Pride gigs as a working drag artist is financially devastating. On top of that, my day job does not provide paid time off, leaving me in a vulnerable position as I recover.

That’s why I’m asking for community support to help me cover:

    •    Lost income from the gigs I’ve had to cancel (including vital Pride bookings)

    •    Recovery supplies and aftercare needs

    •    Essential expenses during my healing time

The goal needed to cover all this is $3000. This surgery makes me unable to cover rent, bills, or even the specific foods and liquids needed for after surgery.

This surgery means so much more than just one procedure. It’s the beginning of aligning my body with my truth and getting the support I need to manage my disability so I can continue my work as a performer, advocate, and artist with even more strength.

I’m scared. I’m nervous. And I’m trying to hold space for all the feelings—grief over lost income, fear around finances, and deep, deep gratitude that this moment is finally here.

If you can contribute, share, or send love my way, I would be endlessly thankful. Every dollar, every message, and every act of care makes a world of difference.

Thank you for seeing me, holding me, and being part of this journey.

Sending you all so much love and light,

AnDrea VanCleefe / Tiffany Uma Mascara