My name is Jesse Havea, and for the past 16 years I’ve performed as Brita Filter — drag queen, community organizer, and one of New York City’s own.

For the past two years, I’ve been suffering in silence.

I have degenerative spinal stenosis and 7 herniated discs — 4 in my lower back, 3 in my neck. I performed with a cane for five months last year while quietly trying to figure out what was happening to my body. I kept it quiet because this is my job, and I do it well, and I didn’t want anyone to think otherwise. I kept showing up — for benefits, for fundraisers, for community events — because that’s who I am. But my body has finally told me it’s time to stop and heal.

After Pride, I will be stepping away from performing. My last show as Brita Filter will be July 5, 2026. I will need two separate surgeries — one for my lower back, one for my neck — and I will have to relearn how to walk. My doctors have told me this will be one of the hardest recoveries possible, and that the physical demands of drag performance won’t be something my body can handle for a very long time.

I have spent my career showing up for others. I’m a National Co-Chair of Drag Out the Vote. I’ve raised money for organizations fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare access, and human dignity. I’ve performed at benefits, rallies, and community events because giving back is not what I do — it’s who I am.

Now, for the first time, I’m asking my community to show up for me.

During my recovery, I plan to transition into a new chapter — hopefully in political content strategy or with an LGBTQ+ nonprofit. As long as I’m helping people, that’s enough. That’s where my heart has always been.

Any support — whether financial, a share, or simply a kind word — means the world to me. I am scared. I am in pain. And I am so deeply grateful for every single person who has ever come to a show, booked me, or let me be part of your moment.

Thank you for witnessing this with me. And thank you for helping me get to the other side. ♥️