On September 1, 2023, I set out to find a new home in the Pacific Northwest. Now, one year later, I’m seeking a home within myself. As I drove to Portland, I looked across the vastness around me and dreamed of what it would be like to feel true comfort and safety within my body. With the love and support from my friends, my family, my own tenacity, and a commitment to myself, the day is finally here. I’m on my way home.

 

If you know me, you know that I deeply struggle to ask for help from the people I love. For most of my life, I’ve avoided feeling like a burden or dependent on others, especially when it comes to my gender identity. While I’m proud of the obstacles I’ve been able to conquer, I’m also keenly aware of the people who helped me get to where I am today. Like most things, I can’t do it without my humans.

 

As my surgery approaches, I’m humbled and so very grateful to the people who have stepped up for me socially, emotionally, and financially. It’s strange to feel both excited and scared about something I’ve dreamed of for so long, and adding financial constraints has amplified that anxiety.

 

With this last obstacle in mind, I’m asking for help. I realize now that I can’t do it alone, and, nor do I want to. I need my community just like it needs me back, and I can’t wait to give back with the same love that is being shown to me.

 

As my surgery approaches, I’m calling on my community to help me navigate this life-changing experience. With the cost of the surgery coupled with being unable to work for the following three months, I’m hoping to raise a total of $13,000. While this number feels like a heavy burden on my back, I know that my friends, neighbors, and family are willing and eager to carry that burden by my side. Frankly, I don’t have the words to thank each of you for believing in me, supporting me, and offering a warm embrace when I need it most.

 

Thank you so much for reading my story – it means more than you know. Whatever you’re able to give gets me one step closer to the life I was meant to live. Finally, to all the other nonbinary humans out there, you are valid. You are seen. And you are absolutely deserving of the life you dream of. See you on the other side!

Financial Details:

Out of pocket max for Insurance cost for Surgery: $9,400

Living cost while out of work: $2,600

(Delivery Driver and cannot deliver packages for months)