It’s my birthday, today!

I’ve spent more years than I can count wanting to shrink on this day. I have never wanted birthday attention, so the irony of this isn’t lost on me.

I’m sharing this because I’ve reached a point where I can’t move forward on my trans journey alone.

Over the years, I’ve moved mountains in survival mode. I’ve always cared more about acting beautiful than looking beautiful. And as euphoric as much of my life has been, living in this body with love, now I want to live in it with joy, ease and safety.

I’ve done so much quietly, with patience and strength. But this next step requires care I simply can’t afford alone, and I’m choosing to ask for help.

I’m ready to continue my gender reconstruction and return home to myself. So, not removing anything but creating space for what is already there.

The world doesn’t make this easy. Not emotionally. Not politically, and not financially. I’m beginning by raising £10,000 to access affirming, private gender care safely.

If you can give, thank you.

If you can share, I’m grateful.

And if all you can do is wish me well, that means the world too in these times

Here’s to a future of birthdays celebrated in full

Asé and with love,

Shakeel x