Living with grade 3 breast ptosis at 22 has deeply affected my confidence and comfort. My breasts sag so much that they cover more than half my stomach, making it impossible to forget about them for even a moment. I can’t wear the clothes I want or feel comfortable in my own skin. I avoid photos, especially from the side, and I’ve never shown my chest to a partner without something supportive. Even sleeping is a challenge—I use a maternity pillow just to get some rest. Simple things like tying my shoes or running are difficult because my breasts are a constant physical obstruction. My posture has suffered, and I feel weighed down both physically and emotionally every day.

I’ve tried to get help for years, starting at 16. I went through x-rays, physical therapy, and chiropractor visits, hoping insurance would help, but I was denied again and again. The process felt like a series of hoops to jump through, not real support. I felt defeated, especially when told to write a letter explaining why I "deserved" relief. The pandemic delayed things further, and now, after college, the problem has only gotten worse. My mom is my main support, but I don’t share the full extent of my struggles with friends or coworkers—they see my back pain, but not the toll on my self-esteem.

I’ve never had the chance to feel like a young woman. When I was younger, my chest was larger than my peers, so I was seen as trying to be grown. As an adult, my breasts started dropping by 17, so I gave up on cute tops and dresses that didn’t accommodate a thick-strapped bra. I have the greenlight from surgeons, but the cost is out of reach. I want to finally experience what it’s like to wear what I want, to run without fear, and to stop hiding. I’m asking for help because I can’t do this alone. Every contribution brings me closer to comfort, confidence, and a life where I’m not defined by this daily struggle.