Nathan’s Freedom via Top Surgery

My name is Nathan and I am a transgender man. I am also a lot of other things: a father to a nine-year-old daughter, a partner, a dog dad, an early childhood educator, an active member of the United Church, and a support person in my community. I am fortunate to have found friends, family, and community members for emotional support in the ups and downs of my transition so far.

My transition began almost three years ago with counselling and changing my name socially. My medical transition began two and a half years ago when I started hormone replacement therapy, where I self-inject testosterone once a week. I am about to embark on the next phase in my journey, top-surgery, which involves removal of my feminine chest. This surgery will free me from the binder that I currently need to wear to flatten my chest every day. Under typical circumstances binders are uncomfortable and can restrict breathing, especially in the hotter months, but negative effects are compounded for me because I have osteoarthritis in my spine.

This is where I need your help. The expenses related to transitioning add up quickly. The surgery is partially covered by OHIP, Ontario’s public health insurance, but not entirely. There are also out-of-pocket expenses for medication and after-care materials as well as travel and hotel expenses for the surgery day as well as follow-up appointments. Anything you could do to help would be appreciated greatly. Top-surgery will allow me the freedom to just be me.