Hi friends,

My name is Noah. I’m in my 40s and I’m nonbinary. I’ve struggled with having breasts since I was in elementary school. Even as a kid, I never felt comfortable in a traditional swimsuit or sports bra without a t-shirt over it. I’ve slept in a sports bra for as long as I can remember, and I’ve spent my entire adult life binding or layering bras just to feel a little closer to myself.

Recently, I wore a silicone chest plate for a performance — and as silly as it might sound, it was the first time in my life I actually liked how my body looked in the mirror. That moment felt like a glimpse of peace I’ve been searching for my whole life.

I know there are so many heavy things happening in the world right now. Everyone I know is struggling, and it’s been a brutally hard year financially for so many of us — myself included. I’ve had to ask for help with basic things this year, and it’s humbling to ask again now. But here’s why I am:

I grew up a queer kid in an evangelical pastor’s home. When I came out, I was sent to a conversion therapy retreat. For years, I felt lost — without the support of my extended family and unsure if I’d ever belong anywhere. After surviving a suicide attempt, I made a promise to myself: if I got a second chance at life, I’d live it authentically. I worked hard to reconcile my identity with my sense of spirituality and to find peace within both.

Today, I have so much that my younger self could never have imagined — beautiful, funny children I adore; a life filled with love, community, and purpose; and the freedom to finally be me.

But there’s still one piece missing. I want my body to reflect who I truly am inside. I want to live the second half of my life free — without hiding behind layers or discomfort.

I have an opportunity to get top surgery at an amazing rate, but I need help covering the cost and recovery. Every dollar raised will go directly to the surgery and the time I’ll need to heal.

If you can, please consider donating or sharing this campaign. It would mean the world to me — not just for the financial help, but for the affirmation that my journey matters.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for spreading kindness wherever you can. Hug your people. Be gentle with yourselves.

With love and gratitude,

Noah