Hi, my name is Loen, and I'm a trans man living in New Orleans. I've been out for 2 years and on HRT (testosterone) for 8 months. I've been wanting to take the next step for what seems like forever--even before coming out, my chest caused me such stress, discomfort, & dysphoria--and the opportunity is finally here!

I had a consultation with a great surgeon; his results consistently look amazing and his technique leaves a much more masculine result than I've seen anywhere else. Unfortunately, his office does not accept Medicaid, & even with the discount he threw in, the cost will still total over $11,700. Everything must be paid before the surgery date, so I'm waiting to schedule so that I don't lose the deposit fee.

I ask that you only give what you are comfortable and able to contribute--I am willing to put in as much as I can on my own, but I also need to save for rent, expenses, & (eventually) reliable transportation so I can stop sinking so much into Lyft/Uber and/or walking in extreme weather. Unfortunately, we have entered the dreaded slow season for bartenders here. I will also be out of work for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery, if all goes well.

Top surgery means the world to me--I can only imagine being able to wear whichever shirt I want (or none!) without looking in the mirror and hating what I see (before inevitably changing multiple times). If by some absolute miracle this fundraiser exceeds the goal, anything additional will be used for travel/fees for my legal name change, as well as expenses incurred from time off, etc.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for even reading this far, and I appreciate any help that comes from it-- if you're unable to donate, even sharing would help!