I am raising funds for my gender affirming top surgery. After a year of anxiously waiting for my surgery date to be assigned, it has finally happened! I am scheduled for late October 2024. This feels very far away, but I also feel hope being able to see it on the horizon.

Gender affirming care is life saving care. Full stop. To be able to access this care would mean that after 25 years, my appearance would align with the individual I have always known myself to be. To be able to medically transition is to be able to take steps away from the pain and depression of performing gender daily, and step into an authentic life, moving closer to gender euphoria.

When I decided I was ready to come out as genderqueer and begin to medically transition, I told people slowly: the people that felt safest to hold space for that vulnerability. Unfortunately my boss at the time outed me to my colleagues and clients. Working in a conservative town in Kentucky, I had no option but to leave that job in order live safely... something that all trans folks deserve. I was out of work for a significant period of time afterward and am still in the process of trying to recover financially and emotionally.

Some of the cost of top surgery is covered by insurance. The estimate for the portion that is not covered is $8,000. In order to keep the date the surgeon has given me, a series of deposits is required over the next 7 months and the first deadline is March 22nd. Any donations would go directly to paying that $8,000 and supporting myself during the recovery after surgery. Any funds that are raised beyond the goal will go directly to BIPOC trans individuals.

I do understand that many of us are in the same struggling position, given the world we live in. Any support that you could give, if you are in the position to do so, would be extremely valuable in making this care a reality, and would be deeply appreciated. If you are unable to financially assist, I ask that you please share within your networks.

With appreciation of your time, love, and support,

Shannon