TLDR: Hi, I’m Harley (also known as Lex or Finn). I’m a trans-masc cosplayer, artist, and writer seeking urgent help to cover the cost of my top surgery and basic living expenses during recovery. My surgery date was moved up unexpectedly, my savings are gone, and I won’t have income during recovery. With trans healthcare under increasing threat, this surgery is medically necessary and time-sensitive. Any support—donations or shares—means more than I can express.

Most of you might know me as Harley, or by other nicknames I’ve used over the years (Lex, Finn, etc.). I joined the cosplay community after moving to Seattle, and shortly after began seeking and receiving gender-affirming care. Cosplaying gave me a sense of safety to explore gender, and with the low visibility of trans-mascs, I wanted to be a reminder of my existence and a safe place for others like me.

My move out of FL/GA/AL was driven by an urgent need for safety, healthcare, and support. I stayed until I graduated college, studying Psychology, Anthropology, and Alternative Medicine. While living down south, I experienced repeated discrimination, threats, and violence because of my identities. Although some things improved after moving to Seattle, the political climate in the U.S. has become increasingly dangerous for trans people. Our rights are being challenged daily, funding for trans care is being cut, and access to medically necessary care is becoming harder and more uncertain.

I struggle with chronic illness, pain, and fatigue like EDS & fibromyalgia, which contribute to daily pain & will likely impact my pain levels, recovery time, and healing process.

I am seeking assistance to pay for my top surgery (aka chest masculinization; double mastectomy) and to support myself during recovery. My surgery date was moved up unexpectedly, and I have used the last of my savings to pay for rent, food, and bills. I do not qualify for medical leave at my new job, so I will have no income during my month-long recovery. My family does not support this procedure or understand LGBTQ issues, so I am relying on my community for help.

I spent dozens of hours researching and trying alternatives—baggy clothes, binding, exercise, radical body acceptance—but none of them resolved my dysphoria. The only time I felt genuine relief and happiness was imagining my body masculinized. Many of you previously helped me get a chest piece, which significantly reduced my dysphoria and reminded me how powerful community support can be. I have been saving for years, but my resources are exhausted, and even with insurance, the remaining costs are still beyond my reach.

I never wanted to crowdfund or ask for help, but my loved ones and medical team have been clear that this is the moment to do so—to “not be a hero.” I initially planned to return to work within five days of surgery just to survive financially, which I now understand would have put my recovery at serious risk.

You have all helped me along this journey by supporting and validating me. I don’t expect anything, but if you can’t donate, sharing or interacting with the post (saving or sending especially) helps a lot. Even a few dollars makes a real difference and keeps me hopeful—truly. Moving forward, I’ll be sharing more about my journey and offering goods or services on other platforms for those who want to support in other ways (eg. photo sets, prints, stickers, etc.). If that's something you're interested in now/before it's finalized, DM me :)

Thank you for being here for me!!

xx H