(above: Maria at the beach with our friend’s dog, Franklin)

Hi! My name is Lyv and I am Maria Gabriela’s partner. They are getting top surgery April 25th 2024 and my hope is that we can raise enough funds to support them through their lengthy recovery.

When I think of people the world is notably better off with, I think of Maria. From their endearing childlike wonder to their endlessly generous spirit, they light up every room with contagious laughter and nurturing wisdom. To know them is to love them and to love them is certainly one of the greatest privileges. Many can and do attest! Beyond that, I’ve never seen them enter so much as a grocery store without brightening someone’s day.

Maria is a hardworking and diligent community member and role model wherever they’re planted. With roots in Washington state, they’ve led marches for women and reproductive rights and have worn many hats on the frontlines of regional social justice movements. In 2021, Maria moved to California in hopes of further expanding upon their dreams and exploring their identity in an affirming container.

(above: Maria running up that hill!)

Recently, they have been granted a unique opportunity to have top surgery with one of the best surgeons in the country covered entirely through state insurance. This has been an enormous weight lifted off their chest (figuratively and soon-to-be literally) as this procedure has been front of mind for many years. Maria could not be more elated to have this option become available when it once felt impossible, as this is a $10k procedure. They’re ready to dance, lift weights, and go to the beach without constant dysphoria and physical discomfort.

Although this is an absolute dream come true for them, we need your help! *cue the Bernie Sanders meme* The road to recovery is going to be long (and expensive). During the first six weeks they will not be able to work at their current laborious job. This means, to make ends meet and cover the cost of necessary supplies we will need to raise at least $3k by the 25th of April, when the surgery is scheduled to take place.

donations will go to:

•housing costs for six weeks ($2800)

•utilities for six weeks (~$300)

•mastectomy pillow ($25)

•bio-oil for scars ($22)

•silicone scar tape/gel (rejuvaskin is $110 for tapes, $30 for gel / other brands are a lot lower cost but are non-specific to mastectomies)

•OTC painkillers ($7-15)

•pre-planned meals (a lush budget here would be really helpful)

•baby wipes, dry shampoos, bathe from bed products (~$50)

•popsicles, Gatorade, high calorie drinks

•neck pillow ($24-70)

•ear plugs ($15)

Prior to even receiving donations, Maria and I both would like to send out the utmost gratitude for all of the encouraging words and support during this massive transition. Everyone has been overwhelmingly positive, affirming, and loving every step of the way. Hearing people celebrate Maria as they share this news with friends and family alike has brought us both to tears and has given Maria the confidence they’ve needed to move forward in this process. Thank you times a million for seeing them as they are. Much love, Maria and Lyv. ❤️

From Maria: “Mucho, mucho, mucho amor! Big kiss, little kiss, big kiss!” They wanted to say, “no worries if not!” to which I just shook my head.

(above: Maria building me a wild bouquet and explaining what they’ve found with so much delight it brings tears to my eyes.)