Help Trans Woman Fight for Justice After FDNY Hit-and-Run

Help Aeliana Fight for Justice

In 2016, Aeliana was run over by an FDNY ambulance.

They fled the scene.
She survived.
But just barely.

In March 2024, in her trial with the FDNY and NYC, the jury unanimously found the city guilty and negligent on all counts, but the transphobic judge set aside the jury’s findings.

Now Aeliana is going through the appeals process.

Aeliana—a beloved trans woman in our NYC community—was left with devastating injuries:

-Permanent brain damage

-Torn ligaments in both knees

-Seven herniated discs and bulges throughout neck and spine

-Nerve damage and chronic pain

-Reconstructive surgeries on her spine and shoulder

-Ongoing physical therapy and routine pain management

-Higher risk for serious brain issues in the future plus chronic pain for life which will worsen with age

Her life was stolen in a moment.
And yet, nine years later, she is still fighting. Not just to walk.
Not just to live.
But to hold the City of New York accountable.

She is still battling the City in court, but has received no compensation, no real medical support, and no justice.

We are raising funds to support Aeliana’s ongoing survival:

• Legal costs in her case against the FDNY

• Rent, food, and basic living expenses

• Ongoing therapy and trauma recovery

Aeliana is a survivor.
But no one should have to survive like this—alone.

Please donate if you can.
Just as importantly: share her story.

Because trans people fighting for justice deserve support.
And Aeliana’s cannot be forgotten.

How the Funds Will Help Aeliana

Your donation doesn’t just go into a void—it goes directly into helping Aeliana survive and fight for justice. Here’s where your support will go:

⸻

Medical & Mental Health Support

Estimated: $13,000

   •   Neurological therapy for brain injury

   •   Chronic pain and nerve damage treatment

   •   Trauma-informed therapy for PTSD

   •   Prescriptions and ongoing medical care not covered by insurance

⸻

Tech & Access Needs

Estimated: $1,500

   •   Replacement of broken/damaged laptop

   •   Accessibility tools for cognitive support

   •   Wi-Fi, phone service, communication access

⸻

Stretch Goal – Restorative Healing Fund

If we exceed the base goal

   •   Art therapy, spiritual support, or creative rehabilitation

   •   A small emergency fund so Aeliana doesn’t live crisis-to-crisis

   •   Resources for future stability after her legal case ends

⸻

Final Note:

Even $5 helps. Even a share helps. Your support means Aeliana doesn’t have to walk through this alone.