My name is Vance Ahrens. Many of you know me as the recent Democratic candidate for State Senate in Brevard County. My activism has always focused on basic human rights, including the right of individuals to make their own healthcare decisions. That is why I am coming to you today. Access to transgender healthcare has been restricted in more than half of the U.S. This access even restricts care for adults like me, and the incoming administration is already indicating it will further restrict that access.

In anticipation of this, I am having to speed up my timeline and seek a minor surgery that will eliminate the need for one of the medications that has helped save my life and to update my federal paperwork.

My goal is twofold.

First, I need to update my passport before additional federal restrictions mirror those already in place in Florida. This will cost $270 with expedited processing, and I hope to apply before Christmas so I can have my correct documents before January 20.

Second, I'm seeking surgery to eliminate the need for a testosterone blocker. My body produces too much testosterone resulting in chronic depression, dysphoria, and debilitating chronic migraine attacks. A simple surgery will help eliminate my need for the T blocker and protect me should access to this medication be restricted again.