Support Salem's Journey to Authenticity

Hello,

My name is Salem and I am raising funds for my bottom surgery. This is a very vulnerable post, so please consider helping me reach my goal. Funds will be used as follows: Thankfully, my insurance will cover a good portion of my surgery, but I need to hit my deductible of $4,000 and will also be taking unpaid leave from my two jobs. The extra amount over the $4,000 is to cover my monthly expenses as well as to account for the transaction fees that GoFundMe takes. Here is a little about me:

I am a first-generation college graduate times two. I received my Bachelor's in Communication from Marian University in Indianapolis and my Master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University Bloomington. I spent my collegiate career advocating for those who are traditionally forgotten about in the college environment. From hosting Tunnel of Oppression (focusing on human trafficking, LGBTQ+ mental health, DACA status, and food insecurity) to working as a success coach for 21st Century Scholars, and even continuing my career in higher education as an LGBTQ+ Student Services Specialist, I have dedicated my career to helping students thrive in the college environment.

More personally, I am a huge cat lover. I rescue cats with extra needs with my partner. I love spending time in my garden and reading books in my free time. From a very early age, I knew I was transgender, but I just didn't have the terminology to express it. However, that never stopped me from pretending to be a girl during playtime or naturally being drawn to girly things. I spent the first 17 years of my life trying to conform to what was expected of me. Being raised in a conservative, extremely religious, small town, it wasn't until I went to college that I was able to explore my gender identity. I worked multiple jobs throughout undergrad and graduate school in order to survive. I started socially transitioning during undergrad but started HRT during graduate school and have slowly been learning to love myself and my body during this process. It has been a dream of mine to not wake up every day hating myself and my body, and finally becoming the woman I've always been. There is so much more I could say, but honestly, posting it for the world to see is a little scary given the political climate currently. I'm more than happy to answer any questions or help provide resources to folks who may need it. Thank you for considering donating.

Much love - Salem Jade

Photo of Sammy and Bean to thank everyone for liking, commenting and sharing :)