Help Shawn (finally) get Top Surgery!

Hello!

My name is Shawn (pronouns: they/them).

I am a neurospicy, lichen nerd in rural Alaska. I live with 30+ sled dogs in a cabin in the woods. By day I'm in the social work field, advocating for youths involved in the foster care system. The rest of my time is spent foray-ing for cool lichens and mosses on adventures with my dogs. I spend time recreationally mushing, and loving on my senior pet rescues.

I'm writing to ask for assistance to afford top surgery - not something that is easy to do, and especially so publicly. In today's political climate, it feels especially anxiety provoking to be so publicly out, and seeking trans* supportive health care.

As many of you know I've been out as queer/trans*/nonbinary for, oh jeez, about 8 years now. I'm seeking top surgery to feel confident and happy in my own skin. I'm seeking this feeling of 'gender euphoria' I see so many other queer/trans* persons experience through gender affirming care. I've been working very hard with my therapist and gender clinic over the last year to make top surgery a reality. I am scheduled for surgery July 26th!!

In classic Alaska fashion, my options for top surgery require out of state travel, and some extended time off of work. I'm so lucky to have the great, caring supports I have in my life. I hope to raise $3,500 to assist in my surgery and travel costs for this incredibly exciting upcoming surgery!