Help Rachel Heal After Gender-Affirming Bottom Surgery

Hi, my name is Rachel!

I'm a transgender woman and a self-employed massage therapist providing care to the trans and queer community. I’m raising funds to cover my living expenses while I recover from gender-affirming surgery this fall.

I began my transition in 2019, and pursuing vaginoplasty has been one of the most daunting steps in this journey. For many years this procedure has felt out of reach, due to my own internal struggles, lack of affordable healthcare, and long wait times to access affirming providers.

Now, after more than two years of being on the waitlist, I finally have a surgery date of October 30th, and I couldn’t be more excited!!!

But even this milestone comes with serious challenges. Earlier this year, I underwent Facial Feminization Surgery, which required six weeks off work to recover. I wasn't planning for another major surgery so soon, but due to ongoing changes in federal policies affecting access to trans healthcare, I feel a growing sense of urgency to move forward with this procedure while I still have access to care.

Because of the physical demands of my work as a massage therapist, I’ll need to take about two months off to recover. This extended time away, combined with my earlier recovery this year, has left me financially vulnerable.

That’s why I’m asking for your help!

Meeting this fundraising goal means I will be able to cover my essential living expenses like rent, groceries, transportation, and basic needs. It will also help me stay current on my business expenses so I can return to the work I love and continue serving my community once I’ve healed.

Any amount, no matter how small, has a meaningful impact. This will be my last major surgical procedure, and by far the most challenging one of all, so your contributions will allow me to stay focused on my recovery without the added stress of financial instability.

Thank you for reading, for supporting trans lives, and for being a part of this incredibly important chapter in my journey.

With deepest gratitude,

Rachel