My name is Max, and I'm a trans writer from the Midwest. I was meant to have my top surgery last winter while covered by my job's health insuarance. However, the Los Angeles branch of my office was closed down, and I was laid off just a few weeks before my surgery. I tried to scramble for new insurance and keep my surgery date on the books, but the red tape around Medi-Cal and COBRA was nearly impossible to navigate. It was not reconciled in time.

It's been nearly five months since then, and I have finally managed to get new insurance and secure a date for surgery. The only obstacle I have left is closing the gap between what the insurance will cover and what it will not cover.

I'll be honest, I went back and forth quite a bit deciding whether or not to fundraise because I did not want to ask for money if I did not need it. However, as the date grows nearer and my new job has not yet started, it's pretty clear that I have to act quickly.

I'm hoping folks can give some money if it is accessible to them, and I hope they know how much it means that they took the time to read this. If all you can do is share this, that goes a long way.

I've been given no shortness of love and kindness through my transition thus far, and I'm incredibly privileged to have your time and generosity. It's a blessing to be able to post a fundraiser and not fear that I'll be judged or met with anything other than support, so thank you in advance, and I'm giving all my love.