Hello, my name is Chloe.

For most of my life I have struggled with my gender identity, often keeping those feelings hidden and convincing myself they would simply go away. After many years of reflection, research, and soul-searching, I have finally, aged 40, begun taking steps towards living authentically as myself.

I am currently on an NHS waiting list for gender identity services, but with waiting times often measured in many years, I have been advised that it could be around seven years before I receive the care and support I need. After spending so much of my life waiting and questioning, I do not feel able to put my life on hold for that long.

This fundraiser is to help cover the costs associated with my transition. While many people think only of hormones, the reality is that there are numerous expenses involved. These include specialist assessments (initial diagnosis gained) , endocrinology appointments (awaiting appointment dates and next step) , blood tests (needed before endocrinologist appointment but GP pushing back with shared care), prescriptions, laser hair removal (about 1/3 way through facial hair treatment), legal name change documentation, updating identification and records, and the many administrative and practical steps involved in aligning my life with who I truly am, who I truly have been just hidden.

Like many transgender people, I am therefore pursuing private care alongside remaining on the NHS waiting list. Every contribution, no matter how small, will help me access appointments, monitoring, documentation, and treatment safely and responsibly.

This journey is not about becoming someone else. It is about finally allowing myself to be the person I have always been.

Whether you are able to donate or simply share this fundraiser, your support means more than I can put into words. Thank you for helping me take these next steps toward living openly, honestly, and authentically as Chloe.

I don't have nor do I wish to have a huge social media presence so if you could share this if you feel right to do so with your friends or family I would be ever so grateful.

Thanking you for at least reading and wishing you a very happy day.

Chloe x