Hi, my name is Malcolm (he/him) and I'm a trans PhD candidate living in Ontario, Canada researching trans-inclusion in colleges and universities. I started my social transition 4 years ago, and after 3 years on hormones and (finally!) legally changing my name - I have started the journey to top surgery!

I had my 1st consultation with my surgeon (Dr. Chung at Catalyst Surgical) and am currently awaiting final approvals so I can book and reserve my surgery date. I'm hoping to have surgery later this summer, since I spend my time during the regular school year (September-April) teaching and working as a research assistant.

Though the government of Ontario partially covers top surgery, my surgeon quoted me $7,300 for all the non-covered fees*. As a graduate student living on a limited stipend, the cost of this surgery was a big reason why I put it off for so long.

Fortunately, my graduate student health benefits offer 80% coverage for gender affirming surgeries, so now is the best time financially for me to access this care. However, our benefits plan requires students to pay for medical care in-full before submitting receipts, all without guarantee of reimbursement. I'm seeking donations to help cover this up-front cost, as well as other expenses related to post-op recovery.

Ways you can help:

1) Donate what you can - times are tough for everyone, but every donation genuinely makes my heart soar! Even 5 dollars can make a difference.

2) Share this fundraiser - if you don't have money to spare, please boost my gofundme! Share it on social media, or with any 2SLGBTQIA+ supportive networks you are a part of.

*This does not include travel costs. Since my surgeon is in a different city, I'll have to travel there and pay for accommodation for my 24 hour post-op check-in the next day.