Caspian Finkbeiner

Hello, my name is Caspian and I could really use your help. I'm a 21 year old trans-man who loves Star Trek, books, art, and life! I need a life-changing surgery, one that I was promised over a year ago, and have been wanting for over four years. I made sure to check with my surgeon that my insurance was taken at this location, then I called insurance to ensure that top surgery would be covered under our plan. I was assured positively in both regards, I even got an appointment last April to come in and have a meeting with my surgeon, and get a surgery date. That surgery date was over a year out, and so for a whole year, I fueled myself on the knowledge that I would have the surgery I so desperately need once March of 2026 came. It got me through so much hardship and struggle, so many bad days were gotten through on the idea that I would be free come this March. Then, a few weeks ago, I got a call from my surgeon’s office. 90 days before my surgery, insurance had denied my claim. I was extremely upset. I don’t have the words. I didn’t even know that could happen. I have letters from multiple doctors, therapists, phycologists, all stating that this surgery is medically necessary and in my best interest. So, I appealed. I sat on the office floor with my mother, and we went over a drafted letter over and over, crafting the perfect thing to say to insurance, and gathering all the medical proof we’d need to win our case. But even with all of the proof and legal-talk we used, I received a letter this morning informing us that our appeal was denied. I do not like being this vulnerable on the internet, it is often not a kind place, but I have tried so hard my entire life to be as kind and helpful to as many strangers as I possibly can, and I am praying that somehow this will be where it comes back to me. I felt hopeless about raising enough money even when I thought insurance would cover most of it, and now I have found out that I need to cover the entire surgery on my own. Please, even if you can only give a dollar, or share the link somewhere, please help me achieve this goal. I cannot continue to live like this, I want to be able to move on with my life. I put off college to get this surgery. I want to live my life. Share the link, give a dollar, even light a prayer candle. Just please put some kind energy my way. I will never forget the kindness that you show me, I will carry it with me forever. No AI was used to write this. I sat down and typed, edited, revised this entire message by hand, so please consider giving my words your time. I will keep you all updated on how things go. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story.