Hi, I am HB (Hannah), and I am once again taking part in the Queer Power Meet on the 4th of October to help raise funds for trans health care.

I feel like this year hits different from last year's power meet. I was so nervous to take part, having never done anything even remotely close to this before. Just turning up was a feat in itself, but I was able to raise £510 and lift some heavy shit.

This year, I am washed out, tiered, and the daily struggle of life is hitting hard. My weekly gym sessions feel like both a chore and a safe space carved out each week to just be me.

I have been incredibly lucky that to date, I have been able to fully fund my own trans surgeries by myself. After last year's power meet, I actually had my second surgery, which felt a little indulgent as it's hard being trans and spending money on things others would say are not necessary. Little did I know I would have £400 in my bank account after paying and be made redundant a month after returning to work. We never know what is around the corner, and yes, it really wasn't ideal timing, but a year on, I can look at my body in the mirror and not hate it. I hadn't realised how much energy I had been spending on part-mentalising my feelings towards myself.

Everyone should have the right and chance to feel like the body they are in is theirs. This is why I am once again taking part in a power meet to raise funds for trans healthcare. My personal trainer is raising funds for their own surgery, which can be found here. Money I raise will go towards this fundraiser, of which 25% of all raised funds will go to other trans fundraisers, giving preference to trans people with multiple marginalisations, like Black, indigenous and other trans people of colour, and disabled trans folks.

Any help would be appreciated, especially in this current climate of stripping back trans rights.