Hi — I’m Joey Valentin. I’m a trans woman based in Minneapolis, a self-employed hairstylist serving the queer and trans community for over 13 years, and an underground DJ who performs as TECHNODOLL. I work to create gender-affirming spaces where people can feel seen, safe, and celebrated. Nothing brings me more joy than watching community transform lives.
I’m raising funds for life-changing, gender-affirming surgeries I’m scheduled to receive on May 19th at the Transgender Clinics of Mexico in Guadalajara. I will be getting top surgery and partial facial feminization (FFS) with a surgeon who has 15+ years of experience working with trans patients.
Why Mexico? While some gender-affirming care can be covered by insurance, many U.S. surgeons don’t specialize in trans surgery or have multi-year waitlists for consultations. Private care in the U.S. can cost $50k–$100k out of pocket. This clinic offers experienced, specialized care at a far more affordable cost, making timely surgery and safer recovery possible.
What I need help with
-Surgery and medical fees
-Flights and 12 nights’ Airbnb for recovery (I’ll be traveling with my husband, Jesse)
-Food, medications, and post-op supplies while in Guadalajara
-Rent and bills at home while I’m off work for a five-week recovery
-Lost income — I’m self-employed with no paid leave
-Work rent and other reoccurring business payments
A few honest details: I’ve been working 50+ hours a week and have saved everything I could, but I’ve exhausted my savings and other fundraising plans fell through. I’ll be off work about five weeks total, and my bills don’t stop while I’m healing.
How your support helps
$25–$50 covers food and recovery supplies
$100–$250 helps with travel or lodging
Larger donations go directly toward surgical and medical costs and covering lost income so I can heal without going into debt.
Thank you for reading, for believing in trans-led care, and for supporting my health and continued work in our community. Any contribution, and any share of this fundraiser, means the world.
With gratitude,
Joey Valentin (She/Her)
TECHNODOLL
Minneapolis hairstylist & DJ