Support Quinn's Journey to Authentic Living

Hi, my name is Quinn, and I’m a transgender man asking for your help to take the next step in my transition: top surgery. After going through the long process of finding a therapist and acquiring a letter of support, choosing a surgeon, and submitting prior authorization requests to my insurance company, I finally have a surgery date of September 16th!

From a very young age, I knew I was different than most. Being transgender is not just something I am — it’s something I’m proud of. It means I come from a community rooted in resilience, creativity, love, and defiance in the face of injustice. It means I get to define myself on my own terms, to live authentically, and to love openly. My queerness is not a burden — it’s a beautiful, powerful part of my story.

Getting top surgery is the next part of my story, and it isn’t just about how I look — it’s about how I live, how I interact with the world, and how I see myself as a human. I’ve been on testosterone for over 3 years, and, while the physical changes I’ve experienced have given me so much gender euphoria, I still feel like something is missing.

Having top surgery will make me feel more complete and is the key to a kind of peace I have never truly known. It will give me the freedom to exist in my body with complete confidence. I want to run, swim, breathe, laugh — and exist — without constant discomfort, fear, and dysphoria dragging me down.

Unfortunately, I am facing a financial barrier related to my surgery. While the surgery is covered by insurance, I will need to take several weeks off from work without pay while I recover. I am hoping to raise around $250000 to help cover living expenses, such as rent and food, while I am recovering.

If you’re able to donate — no matter how big or small — it would mean the world to me! And if you can’t donate, sharing this page is just as appreciated. Every act of support brings me one step closer to living fully and authentically and finally having my outward appearance match who I am on the inside.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and standing by me through this process!

With much love,

Quinn Barker (he/him/they/them)