Your FTM Top Surgery Fundraising Options

Although you can’t put a price on the freedom associated with finally being able to live as your true self, an FTM (female-to-male) procedure can be quite expensive. There are, however, fundraising options that can help cut costs.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding involves raising small amounts of money from a large group of people with one common goal. In this case, the goal would be to cover the costs of your FTM procedure. There are numerous crowdfunding sites available, but make sure that you read the fine print of whichever one you decide on. Some crowdfunding websites take a hefty percentage of the money you raised. Giving up 5% of your total might be doable but 15% is pushing it.

Sell what you don’t need

If you have any clothing, shoes, etc. that are in good condition you can sell them online to make money to put toward your surgery. You can also sell old electronics that still function or even winter tires in good condition. Basically, if you have stuff you don’t need that looks decent and works fine, sell it. If you have high-end clothing for sale, try visiting a consignment shop; they’ll do the selling for you. Plus, if you have things that you associate with the old you, getting rid of them is a great way to start fresh living as your true self.

Get creative

Everyone has a talent. Find yours and offer your services in exchange for a donation to your FTM procedure fund. For example, if you’re an accountant, offer to do your friends taxes in exchange for funding. If you’re an artist ,offer customized pieces for a small fee. If you’re a writer, offer people your writing skills, and, in return, they’ll give you money toward your top surgery. No matter what your talent is, put it to good use and make some money off it.

OHIP

One of the easiest ways to fund your FTM procedure is through OHIP. The Ontario Health Insurance Plan actually covers top surgery as long as you qualify. In order to qualify, you need to receive a diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a psychologist or psychiatrist and demonstrate that you are prepared to undergo the surgery by living life as a male or receiving hormone replacement therapy. Finally, you’ll need an assessment from a physician or nurse practitioner that states that you are healthy enough for the surgery. It seems like a lot of hoops to jump through, but it could mean the difference between a fully-funded FTM procedure and one you have to raise money for yourself.