Hello everyone, my name is Mads, and I'm a 21 year-old trans man living in the Midwest. I'm a martial artist and studying art historian, and love being out in the world and enjoying nature. I plan to work abroad in China next year, teaching English and improving my language skills.

I've been transitioning for three years now, and top surgery has been a transitional need for me since I've started. Chest binding, the alternative for many people like myself, requires me tactically planning my day based on how long I can bind safely, altering my wardrobe, and constantly conflicts with me living my life confidently and healthily.  Top surgery would allow me to pursue my life and goals comfortably and safely, but there's a financial barrier in my way.

I've saved up money, but with COVID and college tuition, my savings have been used keeping myself afloat. I've applied for several grants, but so far I'm still far away from being able to achieve this step for myself. My insurance will cover the procedure, but raising funds has become an urgent situation with my plans to work abroad. I don't want to risk my health and safety by needing to continue to bind in China, but gathering the funds before I leave in the fall of 2021 with living costs is impossible on my own. 

If I can fund this, it will make a drastic improvement to my life. I will be able to pursue my goals, in martial arts and in my destination in China, safely, without risk of bruising, broken ribs, or other complications that can result from binding. 

Any donation helps, and you have my thanks for reading this! I'm so grateful for any help that I get.