Update:

Hello everyone! As of writing this message I am two weeks post-op and couldn't be happier. The healing process has been going smoothly and this week I'll be going for my second check up to hopefully get the clear to fully shower. haha

Here are some pics from when people visited me. I'm lucky to be surrounded by amazing, helpful friends.

Hi, I’m Jay and I’m a trans man living in South Korea. I’m raising funds for my top surgery which is a crucial step to living authentically and safely in my own body. I’m seeking support as I prepare to undergo this intensive surgery amidst other stressful, demanding life events.

If you donate, share, or even send messages of support — I appreciate it all. As someone who struggles with asking for help, I need it now more than ever. I will have this gofundme active until the end of August. You can also find my venmo/PayPal down below.

Venmo: sushicat1

PayPal: Jocelyn Orellana

As a thank you gift I am gifting some art and tattoo designs for donations over $20. You can find more details by filling out this form: https://tinyurl.com/4xr5pmps

Why this surgery matters to me?

I have always been hyper aware of my body and its flaws but since coming out as trans it is even more so. With the way my chest is now, it is literally a weight on my body that I am desperate to get rid of. This surgery would mean no longer hiding behind layers of clothes in the summer heat and no more hunched back from trying to hide my chest. This surgery would be the start of living how I have always wanted.

Why I need your help?

This year I am moving back to the U.S. from South Korea, where I have been living for the past five years. Moving back to the U.S. has been a huge cost, as I have to ship a lot of my belongings back home via postage. I am also moving back with my cat which is an added stressor since I have never traveled internationally with her yet. I am also moving back to a whole new state. I am originally from California, but will be moving to Massachusetts where I don’t have any immediate family/friends besides my fiance. Adjusting to life back home is something I worry about. There is no guarantee that I will find employment right away and I have to think of living expenses, transportation, food, and basic necessities for the time I will be recovering from my surgery. In addition, the surgery is not covered through my insurance so all the costs I will have to pay out of pocket. The amount I want to raise will cover the surgery costs, my hospital stay, medication, and hospital fees.

I am very blessed with a chosen family who accepts me and loves me. Here are some of their words on why you should give to my fund!

“Jay's book of life is about to open so many different chapters at once. After 5 years as a teacher in Korea, I'm looking forward to seeing what their future awaits. If you are to live happy when humanly possible, a life the fullest and happiest, I want nothing but the best for him and to support them during this time by any means. . But on top of all that... Jay really hates their chest. So to proceed with a desired change I say a million times 'Do it.'” - Serena, my fiancee, loml, my sunshine, etc. etc.

“Jay’s gone through a lot of changes in the five years I’ve known them. Moved homes. Got a cat. Hella tattoos. Became a tattooist. Hair dyed. Hair cut. Hair cut. Hair CUT. And a lot along the road of sexuality and gender expression. But so much has stayed the same. His warm heart. His playful nature. His sense of justice. His tender care and support. His thoughtfulness. And though we no longer share the same floral turtleneck from ASOS lol we both still share the inability to ask for help when we need it. This may not seem it to whoever’s reading, but this is a last resort for my friend. Moving across the world, preparing for grad school as well as this life-changing surgery is so overwhelming and expensive. Anything you could contribute to this would make such a difference in my friend’s life and would be appreciated beyond belief.” - Josie, close friend of 5 years

"I’ve seen Jay grow into the happiest and brightest version of themself since he started his transition. He’s been talking about getting top surgery forever now and I know receiving this gender affirming care is their next step to living more authentically. I’m so excited to hear about how much joy they are feel finally being able to exist as the person they feel inside. " - Ariana, close friend of 10 years

"Over these past few years, I have watched Jay has grown into the most authentic version of himself. Watching him go through the journey of gender discovery and queer acceptance has been incredible and heartwarming to witness. Getting top surgery will allow him to feel comfortable in his body and continue on the path of living as his most authentic self. I can't wait to see what the future holds for him!" - Sam, close friend of 4 years