Hi everyone my name is Clara. I'm a trans woman living in Portland Oregon. I've been transitioning for about 12 years now and it's been.... well, it's been rough going. But despite the struggles, transitioning is the best decision I've ever made. Despite the struggles I'm thriving! I'm happier, healthier and more confident in my new body.

I'm writing this because I need a bit of help for this next step in my transition. I've been able to access hormones, therapy, doctors and almost everything else I've been needing for my transition. The one resource I've been struggling to access is surgery. I have been advocating to get FFS (facial feminization surgery) for about 8 years now. Yes, 8! whole! Years! The good news is I'm finally in talks with a surgeon from OHSU (The largest clinic in Oregon) who is willing to perform the procedure AND! It will also be covered by my insurance, FULLY! After struggling to access this surgery for 8 years, this is a massive victory.

The issue is: despite my best attempts to save money for recovery, I have none. It has all gone to various other aspects of my transition and my life (food, meds, bills, etc). You don't need me to tell you how hard things are in America today. To make matters worse I recently lost my job and have not been able to find another. It feels like just when I'm close to the finish line, another obstacle presents itself.

After my FFS procedure I'll be recovering for about 2 weeks. In that time I'll need help buying and making food, taking care of my house and other personal needs. Since I'll be out of commission I won't be able to work odd jobs or gigs like I typically do to pay my bills and keep afloat during this sudden period of unemployment.

I'm asking for $1,000 for my recovery.

This will ensure that I'll be able to recover with no worries in mind. I have two caretakers that have volunteered to take care of me in the two weeks that I'll be out of commission. This money will ensure that they have everything needed to take care of me, from buying food and meds to taking care of my bills and everything in between.

It's been a long road to get to where I am in my transition. I've faced very many challenges on my own and I've done my absolute best to not burden anyone else with my struggles, but this time I need a modest amount of help to get through my recovery safely. I do not take coming on to this platform and asking for help lightly.

Thank you so much in advance to each and every single person that chooses to donate to my transition and know that you will be helping fulfill a goal 8 years in the making with even the most the most modest of contributions.

-Clara