Gender Affirming Surgery for Brandon
Meet Brandon; He was never quite like the other children. As a parent, I could see that he didn't interact with his peers the way they interacted with each other. When I would volunteer at school I noticed at recess the children would have little weddings or talk about who was who's GF or BF, but not Brandon. He often played alone or reserved himself for one friend whom he felt comfortable with. At home he never offered insight to future relationship dreams or ever made mention of crushes. I assumed him gay and was content with this assumption and let him be himself without expectations, eagar to watch him grow up.
Then, in fourth grade, a sudden wave of abdominal issues plagued him. My poor guy, doubled over in pain, up all night, or in the early hours of the morning unable to hold anything down. We visited the only three pediatric gastroenterologist's within a hundred mile radius of our home. After many years and much testing we still had no answers. He was a medical anomaly.
Fast forward to 8th grade. Still dealing with GI issues, anxiety and depression started to become more present. Brandon became withdrawn and began to self-harm.This self-harm soon escalated to an attempt on his life. After many tears and questions Brandon came out to me, not as gay, but as male. Assigned female at birth Brandon shared his pain of being in the wrong body with me. I didn't understand the transgender experience and did everything I could to educate myself. I was troubled when I couldn't find long-term studies with regard to transition and mental and physical health. I had to support him and be the best mom I could be regardless. I want to see my child happy and healthy. I helped him legally change his name, start testosterone and, obtain gender affirming documents like his passport and state ID. As Brandon began to live his truth his GI issues started to fade away. His depression, not as dark. However, his anxiety stays due to his dysphoria. We have come so far but we have one final step. Brandon needs chest masculinization surgery which is not covered by insurance. Now, a senior in high school, Brandon is going to be 18 soon. He needs this medically affirming procedure to live a happy, healthy adult life. Any contribution you can make toward helping Brandon achieve his goal of 10k is appreciated. Remember, live your truth and love yourself and the possibilities are endless. ♡