I am starting this fundraiser to help cover the costs of becoming more myself. I have always viewed my transition as a test of my own character; while most people were born with bodies they feel comfortable in I have to work for mine.

However, between a full time education and a part time job I am not able to afford transitioning expenses in addition to my monthly bills. The insurance that I am under considers trans related health costs medically unnecessary and will not help in any way.

A little about me

I am 22 years young and currently attend the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh full time to study Women and Gender Studies in which I hope to one day become the director of an LGBTQ Resource Center where I can help individuals like myself and others within the community. I also work part time for an individual youth services program run through the state of Wisconsin. I get to mentor at risk youth in my area and it is the most rewarding job I could have. I have always loved helping people and being around children and this job allows me to do just that. After being hired I came out to my employer and coworkers who were extremely supportive and took every measure to make me feel comfortable. I feel very lucky in this regard because the state of Wisconsin has no law protecting trans individuals from discrimination in the work place, housing, or public accommodation. For example, my boss could walk up to me and tell me that I am fired simply for being transgender and there is nothing I can do about it.

But why can’t you just be happy with the body you have?

While I may be in good health physically, I am not in good health mentally. A few months ago I was diagnosed with depression and gender dysphoria. The diagnoses did not come as a shock to me because I was watching my life fall apart in front of my eyes and I did not care. I was put on academic probation, not performing well at my previous job, letting relationships fade away, and having thoughts of suicide. I did not have any motivation to leave my bed or even to wake up. When I was finally able to come to terms with the fact that my gender identity is different than what I was assigned at birth the pieces to the puzzle started fitting together. I bought my first binder to compress my chest and genuinely smiled for the first time in a long time. Then, I came out to my family and close friends. I was overwhelmed by acceptance and could feel the weight slowly be lifted off of me. Hearing people call me by my preferred name and pronouns feels completely right to me and I want my exterior to finally match my interior.

 *In addition to this funding page I will also be saving up my own money and making items to sell*

Thank you for taking the time to read about my experiences. I know that we all have our own battles to face so if you are unable to donate at this time I understand. Please feel free to share this page with others!