Hester is getting Top Surgery!

Hi! Thanks for being here.

My name is Hester and I'm finally getting the life-altering top surgery I have always desired on September 3rd. It would mean the world to me if you stuck around to read/share my story. My goal is to get through this process smoothly and you can help!

The dictionary definition of gender dysphoria is "a state of severe distress or unhappiness caused by feeling that one's gender identity does not match one's sex as registered at birth." The deep unhappiness and constant underlying pain is something all those with this dysphoria share. It's always there, the feeling of extreme discomfort and always having to limit your life according to society's definition of you.

Gender dysphoria started for me around age 6. I remember playing with my brother and his friends, they all took their shirts off to jump on the trampoline. I started to take mine off and my mother stopped me and said "girls aren't allowed to do that." I was so confused by that. I didn't feel like a girl, but I didn't feel like a boy either. All I knew was that I should be able to be shirtless if I wanted.

Puberty was confusing too; I never felt comfortable with how my body was changing. I knew that in order to fit in I would need to dress more like a "girl" - and I tried, for so long! It wasn't until adulthood I realized I could be myself and dress how I wanted to and it didn't matter how others would perceive me.

Now, too many years later I have made the decision to live in the body I have always wanted. The body I always felt like I should've had. I'm proudly non-binary and now my body will reflect what I've felt inside my whole life.

As some of you know, top surgery is quite expensive. I don't have insurance so I will be paying for everything out of pocket. I've been a barista most of my life so I don't have the money to cover it all. Here's where you come in! If you can spare even a dollar I would be so grateful! Either way, please share this fundraiser so I can reach my goal!

The total I'm asking for will cover the $10,600 surgery, the travel expenses (since I can't be in my own state), rent and bills while I am unable to work, and for my caretaker while I recover.

I am beyond ready for this. I'm ready to no longer wear a binder, actually be comfortable swimming, and to wear overalls without a shirt underneath. I am ready to feel at home in my body.

Thank you for reading, donating, and sharing!