My name is Katie, and I'm reaching out for help to make a dream come true. After over a year of building a loving relationship online, I want to surprise my long-distance girlfriend by visiting her in Seattle before I leave for Basic Military Training with the Air Force. This is an LGBTQ relationship, and meeting her in person before such a big life change would mean everything to both of us.

The distance between Suffolk, VA and Seattle, WA is huge, and the costs for flights, food, and a hotel are more than I can manage on my own right now. I want to show my girlfriend that love can overcome any obstacle, even thousands of miles. Your support would help me cover these travel expenses and make this special visit possible.

If you were in my shoes and knew your loved one couldn't come to you, you'd want to prove that distance can't stop love. I want our relationship to blossom and show how committed we are, even as I prepare to serve in the Air Force. Any help from the LGBTQ community or allies would mean the world to us. Thank you for believing in our story and helping us take this important step together.