Hi, my name is Misha and I am 22 years old. I am incredibly proud to announce that I have a confirmed top surgery date of July 17th! After over a decade of living openly as a transgender man, this moment is incredibly meaningful to me. I’ve already paid out of pocket for the procedure itself, but I’ll be unable to work for 5–6 weeks during recovery, missing around 125 hours of labor. That is why I have decided to turn to my community.

Living as a trans person in NYC hasn’t always been peachy, but being in community with tons of brilliant, beautiful, sexy, loving, tender, and compassionate people saved my life. Without the guidance and material support of the people around me I wouldn’t have made it this far. Mutual aid and strong community ties is how transgender people have survived in this country for decades. In the face of a government that’s actively trying to erase our existence, we have to make it a point to support one another.

I’m asking for help covering the basics while I heal — groceries, medications, doctor visits, entertainment to pass the time, and other day-to-day necessities. I want to give myself the time to rest and recover without financial anxiety.

If you’re able to donate, even a little, I’m deeply grateful. If you can’t, sharing this helps more than you know. Materially supporting transgender people is the most effective strategy in keeping us alive.

Yours in struggle,

Misha K