My partner Ferris (a.k.a. Muppet a.k.a Duke Rugs) is scheduled for top surgery in March. It has been an emotionally intense and exhausting process to cement a firm date for this care. From securing the required letters of advocacy and undergoing pre-op visits to receiving the wonderful news that their insurance pre-authorization had been approved, this journey has already been years in the making.

With the date finally in view and our excitement building, an email arrived from their surgeon's office which stated that their surgeon would no longer be in network for any insurance providers beginning on January 1st of 2026. This, despite the fact that they have patients on the books for gender-affirming care scheduled into the spring.

The surgeon's office confirmed for us that the total cost of the care, including follow-up appointments, would amount to $5,000.

Ferris initially shared with me that they were happy to be able to work within the framework of the healthcare system by relying on the coverage of their insurance. Despite their patience and optimism, the system has failed them.

If you are able to support Ferris through this unexpected challenge to allow them to receive this life-changing surgery, it would mean the world to them. They continually bring joy, art, mayhem, and beauty into our lives. Let's shine just a fraction of that light back at them.

Any funds raised beyond the cost of the surgery will be used to cover the cost of our stay in the city where Ferris will be receiving care.

Thank you, friends <3