*trans trapeze artist seeks top surgery*

After years on the NHS waiting list, with years to go before being able to set a surgery date, I feel lucky to have the support of friends and family to take the leap of fundraising in order to access gender affirming care privately here in the UK.

Over two years ago now, I first began using transtape-- an alternative binding method that is at once more comfortable than a garment binder and also helps to create the illusion of a flatter, more masculine chest-- and it has brought me such incredible joy when I'm able to wear it. Above you can see me on my trapeze, shirtless, my chest bound with transtape. As soon as I started binding this way, it became integral to my trapeze practice, allowing me to feel freer in my body than I have ever felt. But transtape, as with any binder, has its limits.

The surgery itself costs £9,995, but once I have raised £3,500, I can book in for the surgery and continue fundraising to pay the rest in instalments over 12 months, interest free. Before I can book in for the surgery, I will also have to schedule an assessment with a UK Gender Specialist for a referral letter, which will cost at least £500. So I am aiming to raise a total of £11,000 to also be able to cover necessary travel expenses.

I plan to supplement whatever I'm able to fundraise here with my own savings as well as proceeds from art sales and cabaret nights here in Edinburgh.

If I am lucky enough to raise more than I need, I will donate excess funds to other fundraisers for trans siblings looking to access gender-affirming care.

This surgery will have a profound and immeasurable impact on my day to day life as well as my creative practice. Please, donate what you can-- every little helps-- and please share widely.