Top Surgery for Dylan

Hi! My name is Dylan and I'm a 17-year-old trans man from Scotland.

My chest is by far the greatest source of dysphoria. I quit my dance and swimming classes because I felt far too uncomfortable in how my chest looks, and often I will choose not to go out when it is warmer as it means I can't cover it up with layers as easily. Even showering causes me a lot of distress as I have to face a body part that feels entirely wrong to me. 

I've been on the NHS waiting list for years now, and it would likely be at least another 5 years until I could access top surgery, and that's an optimistic guess. Mentally, I don't feel like I can cope waiting that long. The NHS also do not perform top surgery on under-18s, despite 16 year olds having medical and legal capacity in Scotland.

I find asking for money very difficult, but this surgery is what I want most in life. I won't feel confident in my body until I get it, and even thinking about how long I would have to wait on the NHS makes me feel sick. I won't feel like I can freely live my life until my chest is gone.

I know how hard it is to give money right now, particularly with the pandemic, so I am deeply thankful for any amount you can give me.