Dear friends, family, and whoever else will listen,

I’m starting this fundraiser to help me afford something that is deeply personal to me: cosmetic surgery on my chest region (i.e. breast augmentation).

For me, this isn’t simply about changing my appearance. It’s about feeling more comfortable in my own body, building my confidence, and making a personal investment in how I see myself and show up in the world.

Confidence can influence so many parts of life, from the way we carry ourselves to how comfortable we feel pursuing new opportunities. I want to feel more confident in my appearance, express myself the way I’ve always wanted to, and stop putting off something that has been important to me for far too long.

I am fully aware of how superficial this may seem to some, “beauty is more than skin deep” and all that, but even if that’s the case, so what? I am fully aware that this is a superficial ask, but it comes with deeper strings tied to my own self-love and confidence. I’ve wanted this for years and weighed the pros and cons heavily, both psychologically as well as physically.

There’s also an economic side to this goal. Research has explored the relationship between physical attractiveness and professional outcomes, including earnings and workplace opportunities. Although appearance doesn't guarantee higher income, some studies suggest that attractiveness can be associated with advantages in certain professional settings. This has made me think about the ways confidence, presentation, and feeling good about myself could play a role in my future goals.

I understand that cosmetic surgery is a personal choice, and I respect that it may not be something everyone understands or chooses for themselves. So I’m not asking that you support my decision, only that you respect it. And if that respect comes with helping me with the financials or some hot tricks on recovering from said surgery, that would be most welcome.

The cost of this procedure, including the associated medical expenses, is a financial hurdle I'm working to overcome. That's why I'm reaching out to friends, family, and anyone who might be willing to help me take this step.

Any contribution, no matter the amount, would bring me closer to my goal. If you're unable to donate, sharing my fundraiser or simply offering encouragement would also mean so much to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider supporting me. Your generosity would help me work toward a goal that is personal, meaningful, and connected to the future I want to build for myself.

Thank you for anything you can do, even if it's just providing me emotional support before, during, or after.

-Ari