My name is Kota, although my friends call me Scourf. I’m 22 years old and currently studying for a masters degree in neuroscience in the UK. When I’m not in university, I love to draw, sing, play instruments - anything creative really ☺️

I have been out as non-binary for just over 8 years however I haven’t openly gone by neutral pronouns exclusively until recently. I was initially referred to the GIC back in 2018 and have been on the waiting list for a consultation for around 3 years. During this period, waiting times for treatment on the NHS have increased and without private treatment, I could potentially be looking at an extra 2-3 years for an initial appointment and a further 1-2 years for top surgery.

Having been out for eight years, I’ve struggled with gender dysphoria since puberty, although I wasn’t able to put a name to what exactly it was that I was feeling. I previously binded with unhealthy materials but despite purchasing a proper binder, my chest dysphoria meant that I had to wear this for dangerous periods of time - which subsequently resulted in breathing difficulties and bruised ribs. Because of this, I can no longer wear a binder for more than 3-4 hours at a time without discomfort or asthma. The intense dysphoria I feel on a semi-daily basis has had a negative impact on my relationship with family and friends and has impacted my ability to participate comfortably in activities others find enjoyable.

In the past I have donated to other individuals transition funds on Gofundme and other platforms but I never thought I would be in the position where I’d have to make one myself. Unfortunately due to the waiting times for treatment, I have had to make a tough decision of either scraping together enough money for private treatment, or spend the rest of my young adulthood despising my body and who I am as a person. And although top-surgery is the first stepping stone in my transition, it is also the most significant for me as a person.

Top surgery would allow me to finally feel comfortable in my own skin, something that I’ve struggled with since my early teens. I would finally be able to start dancing, exercising in public and swimming without binding or wearing a baggy T-shirt. This would also have a massive impact on my mental health, as I have struggled with depressive and dissociative episodes for a while.

To sum it up, having this surgery would be absolutely life changing for me - or more appropriately, I’d finally be able to start living my life as me. If you could spare any amount towards medical costs, it would mean the world to me. Every penny counts and I would be eternally grateful. If not, I ask you only to consider sharing this page to friends and family on social media as it could make all the difference. Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you have a wonderful day!!