Help Cadence Achieve Gender-Affirming Surgery

Hi Y’all! I’m Cadence, a soon-to-be 37 year old transmasculine non-binary queer. I am a customer service representative at Weaver Street Market grocery co-op in Carrboro, NC. I am also currently applying for my legal name to change, with both my parents’ blessing. I recognize this as a rare gift very few transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are offered and I am immensely grateful.

I am creating this fundraiser in order to share with my beloved community a significant pillar in my self-actualizing journey: gender-affirming chest masculinization surgery, often referred to as “top surgery”. Most fortunately, I am offered high-quality health insurance through my job and, knowing this procedure was a major goal of mine in the not too distant future, I opted for the more expensive plan offered to employees in order to have greater reassurance that my health insurance would pay a portion of the cost of surgery. Of course, there was no guarantee. For my entire professional career to date, I have only held jobs with modest pay and, as intentional as I can be with budgeting, there simply is no excess of funds to cover the out of pocket expenses for this procedure. This is where I come to my dear community for your support.

My therapist and I were reflecting on how long I’ve been on this quest to self-fulfillment. She said, it certainly has been for at least as long as I’ve known you (and she’s been my primary therapist for the better part of 15 years now!). Probably longer! I’m not saying I believe this surgery marks the end of my journey of self discovery, by any means. Nevertheless, it is a tremendous milestone towards my self-acceptance. I have fought with myself for too many years as my physical body was not quite congruent with my soul. My mental, emotional, and sometimes even physical health have suffered a long time because of my gender dysphoria. Since beginning testosterone therapy in February of 2023, I have witnessed tremendous progress in my overall mental health, which only reinforces my pursuit of this surgery.

I can hardly believe that my surgery is scheduled for Monday, March 31st, 2025! I do not have an easy time asking for help (who does really?), but I do know I will need continuous support throughout this process. As strongly as I prefer to be the helper in many circumstances, this occasion does not feel like it would be best (or advised) to rely on my own capabilities.

As a customer service rep, my income does not fully cover the growing expenses associated with this surgery. The financial burden can feel overwhelming, and I would be earnestly grateful for any support you can offer.

Whether you can contribute the cost of a coffee with pastry ($5) or simply share this fundraiser with your trusted network, your time and efforts mean the world to me. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider your role in its’ continuation. I am immensely grateful to have your support.