Did you know how wildly expensive it can be to live your life as your most authentic self? I had no idea when I began this journey one year ago. The cost of a legal and medical gender transition is exorbitantly high in the United States. Even with health insurance, my upcoming top surgery (double mastectomy) will cost nearly $2700. In addition, legal filing fees for my legal name and gender change came in at $435.
As a public school teacher, these are funds I simply do not have. And, this is only the beginning. A hysterectomy is also on the horizon for me, as I have had ongoing complications, pain, and medical emergencies as the result of continuing to live with a uterus.
But, the emotional and mental health reward are tremendous. Gender confirmation surgery can be life changing and greatly improve the mental health outcomes for folks like myself.
In addition, approximately $200 will be earmarked for a friend to be able to stay in a hotel nearby and to care for me after surgery.
So here’s the breakdown:
Top surgery: $1400
Court fees for name and gender change: 435
hotel for aftercare: 300
Surgery is happening on October 19th, which is less than three weeks away! You can also help by sharing this fundraiser on your social media.