Let's Get Gutsy to Camp!
Donation protected
Full disclosure: I hate asking for money. HATE IT. And I wouldn't do it if unconditional love wasn't kicking me in the shins and reminding me that my child is more important than my pride.
Three months ago, our 11-year-old came out to us as transgender: in her words, she is a girl trapped inside a boy's body. It explained so much, including the anxiety and depression she has been living with for years. Hiding such a big secret from everyone was an unimaginable burden. It was literally killing her, and I'm so glad she was finally able to be true to herself. The person we see emerging is a more confident and much happier one.
Yet, as one might expect, the news turned our world upside down. Our life plan has drastically changed in the short term in the hopes of ensuring her a happier longterm. It became apparent recently that school was not a good fit for her anymore, so we've decided to homeschool for now to ease her transition (meaning I'm not working nearly as much.) We also have medical costs, including medication and therapy.
We're doing ok - really! - but as a family of five living on one income, the extras are a little harder to manage. So when the news came in today that a highly-coveted spot had become available at a local LGBTQ kids' camp, my friends suggested we try to raise the funds via the internet. My pride almost won, but that shin-kicking unconditional love stuff insisted I do it. For her. This camp is incredible, and she will meet so many kids who she will be able to relate to. Friendship, connection, understanding. Most of us don't understand what she's going through, but these kids will. This is a big deal.
Our daughter has graciously allowed us to share her journey through social media and on my blog, The Maven of Mayhem. Her goal is being achieved: she has been changing minds and opening the hearts of thousands. Every day, I get emails from people thanking us for sharing her story and reminding us that we're doing our part to help the trans* movement. My friends said that maybe people want to give back to my daughter for sharing her story, and maybe we should let them.
Pride. Shins. Love.
Alright, you win.
Look, no matter what, we will get her to camp! But with your help, we can do it without lying awake at night worrying about where the money is going to come from. And when I'm stressed I'm a lousy writer. How will I possibly entertain you?
Three months ago, our 11-year-old came out to us as transgender: in her words, she is a girl trapped inside a boy's body. It explained so much, including the anxiety and depression she has been living with for years. Hiding such a big secret from everyone was an unimaginable burden. It was literally killing her, and I'm so glad she was finally able to be true to herself. The person we see emerging is a more confident and much happier one.
Yet, as one might expect, the news turned our world upside down. Our life plan has drastically changed in the short term in the hopes of ensuring her a happier longterm. It became apparent recently that school was not a good fit for her anymore, so we've decided to homeschool for now to ease her transition (meaning I'm not working nearly as much.) We also have medical costs, including medication and therapy.
We're doing ok - really! - but as a family of five living on one income, the extras are a little harder to manage. So when the news came in today that a highly-coveted spot had become available at a local LGBTQ kids' camp, my friends suggested we try to raise the funds via the internet. My pride almost won, but that shin-kicking unconditional love stuff insisted I do it. For her. This camp is incredible, and she will meet so many kids who she will be able to relate to. Friendship, connection, understanding. Most of us don't understand what she's going through, but these kids will. This is a big deal.
Our daughter has graciously allowed us to share her journey through social media and on my blog, The Maven of Mayhem. Her goal is being achieved: she has been changing minds and opening the hearts of thousands. Every day, I get emails from people thanking us for sharing her story and reminding us that we're doing our part to help the trans* movement. My friends said that maybe people want to give back to my daughter for sharing her story, and maybe we should let them.
Pride. Shins. Love.
Alright, you win.
Look, no matter what, we will get her to camp! But with your help, we can do it without lying awake at night worrying about where the money is going to come from. And when I'm stressed I'm a lousy writer. How will I possibly entertain you?
I've asked for the full amount for the week-long camp (beginning July 27th). The camp does offer subsidies, but I know there are families who need it more and maybe don't have the amazing support we do. If we somehow end up with more than we need, we will donate the rest to Camp Ten Oaks for other families who could use a break. This camp is saving lives year after year.
If you read this far, I thank you. If you can donate, I thank you even more. And if you can't, that's ok, too. Thank you for supporting my child in whatever way you can. We are so grateful for people like you.
Sincerely,
Amanda/The Maven
If you read this far, I thank you. If you can donate, I thank you even more. And if you can't, that's ok, too. Thank you for supporting my child in whatever way you can. We are so grateful for people like you.
Sincerely,
Amanda/The Maven
Organizer
Amanda Jetté Knox
Organizer
Kanata, ON