Hi, I’m Andy (he/him), and this July, I’m having top surgery — a life-affirming step that brings me closer to living in a body that feels like mine.

This isn’t the end of my journey, and I know there may be more steps down the road. But this one is important. It’s about easing a weight I’ve carried for a long time — the discomfort of feeling disconnected from my own chest, my own reflection, my own sense of self.

Top surgery is covered, thankfully, but there are still some unexpected costs I’m struggling to cover on my own. One is an optional but highly recommended liposuction procedure under the armpits, which helps create a smoother, more natural result. The second is accommodation in Vancouver for recovery — something I’ll need for a few days after surgery that isn’t included in medical coverage.

I hesitated to ask for help — it’s hard. But this journey has also been about learning to care for myself, and part of that is being honest when I can’t do something alone.

This surgery represents so much more than physical change. It’s about healing years of dysphoria. It’s about offering compassion to my younger self — the version of me who never had the language or safety to fully exist. And it’s about moving forward with more comfort, more confidence, and more alignment between who I am and how I live in my body.

If you’re able to donate, share, or even send a kind word, I’d be incredibly grateful. Every bit of support helps me take this important step — not just toward surgery, but toward living more fully, freely, and authentically.

Thank you for being part of this with me.

With gratitude,

Andy