Support Ryan’s Journey to Top Surgery

Hi, my name is Ryan. I’m a 24-year-old, trans, nonbinary person seeking help to receive gender-affirming top surgery.

Asking for help is not easy for me. For most of my life, I believed that financial, mental, and physical independence were markers of success. As you can imagine, this mindset has caused a great deal of anxiety and struggles with self-worth over the years. I’ve been forced to reflect on this outlook, especially after struggling with my mental health, chronic illness, and the realization of how essential community is for living.

In the past few years, I’ve learned so much about myself, and I have the support of my friends, family, and the trans community to thank for giving me the space to grow. The love and encouragement I’ve received has led me to this point today. I’m proud of who I’ve become and proud to be able to ask for help as I continue to grow into my true self.

Top surgery is something I’ve debated for years. I was once asked, “When you see yourself 40 years from now, do you imagine yourself with a flat chest?” This question challenged me, not because I wasn’t sure about top surgery, but because I had never imagined myself growing older. I’ve spent time thinking about this question, wondering who Ryan will be in 40 years. I pictured myself at 64, in my garden surrounded by the color green, with flowers blooming and critters everywhere. When I thought about what I looked like, I saw wrinkles, wild, unkempt hair with a blue streak in the front, and a flowy, colorful dress that swept across my flat chest.

I now use this thought as a safe place in my mind to remind myself of how beautiful my transness is. I want to live a long life in a body that feels like mine. I know that top surgery will be a significant step forward for me.

I’m reaching out for help to cover the costs of surgery and related expenses. The funds will go towards:

• Surgery costs not covered by insurance

• Medical supplies and aftercare

• Living expenses for the 6-8 weeks I will need to take off work to heal and recover

If you’re able to donate, share my story, or spread the word, it would mean the world to me. Thank you for helping bring me closer to living in a body that reflects who I am.

Thank you so much for your time, your love, and your support.