B is for

Brennan. I'm 20 years old and I reside in NY. I am a laid back, hard-working guy who also happens to be transgender. I am currently saving up for top surgery because my chest makes me extremely dysphoric and uncomfortable. For now, I have to wear a chest binder (which compresses my chest), but after years of use it is at the point where it causes too much pain (imagine having your entire torso wrapped extremely tight in saran wrap for 8 hours a day -- that's basically how it feels).

Boobs. Boobs are okay. Just. Not on me. The surgeon who will be performing my operation is located in Florida. This is something that I have been thinking about for years, and the fact that I get closer and closer to it every day is extremely exciting. Binding is extremely uncomfortable. It exacerbates my back pain and it's something that my body physically can't handle anymore. With your help, and the help of job I have, I will (hopefully) be able to have this surgery at the start of the summer (2012). 

Broke. Top surgery is very expensive. It costs $5,900 for the surgery itself -- and then I have to add in travel fees (flight and hotel) which means I'll need about $7,000 total. Top surgery is not covered by insurance. Boob jobs, nose jobs -- those are, though. It boggles my mind that those types of procedures are covered but a surgery that I actually need is not. 

Better. You can help me make things better. As I mentioned, I'm currently working and saving up as much as I can, but $7,000 isn't exactly pocket change. That's where you can help to make a difference -- with your pocket change. Every little bit adds up. As you can see, I've set up "perks" to make things more fun and interactive. I want you to know how grateful I am even for the smallest donation or even just for some kind words. If you are able to help out in any way, I will appreciate it immensely. This surgery means a lot to me as I will finally feel comfortable in my body.

Brilliant. Or thank you. I couldn't think of a "B" nifty word that means thank you. Anyway, I really can't thank you enough. Just the fact that you've taken the time to read about my journey means a lot to me. Thank you for any kind words, thank you for anything you're able to donate, and thank you for supporting me, most importantly. Please check out my blog or my youtube channel if you have any questions or would like to get to know me better.

P.S. There is a "share" button above if you'd like to pass this along. :)