Hello everyone. My name is Amber. I'm a transgender female seeking financial support towards a procedure called Facial Feminazation Surgery. "Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is a combination of surgical procedures aimed at reducing what we call ‘masculine facial features’, giving the face a softer and more feminine look. Many trans women feel insecure and anxious about their external appearance not matching their internal state of being. " (credit: https://www.2passclinic.com/ffs/facial-feminization-surgery/ ) This surgery isn't necessary for every trans person but for many the disconnect between their own appearance and their true gender is psychologically crippling and socially destructive with little reprieve. It goes beyond the perceptions of others and can often feel like life is being lived passively in a costume or a detached vessel. Transitioning has helped to alleviate some of the very unpleasant symptoms felt daily by countless trans people but for me this would be the most transformative in being able to live freely and happily. It's easy to consider it cosmetic but for those that obsess and agonize over relics of masculinity in their appearance on a daily basis, FFS is a crucial part of transitioning that for me would rid the most unbearable and intrusive thoughts and feelings brought on by gender dysphoria. Right now I avoid so many situations and miss out on some the best and most worthwhile things in life. I feel trapped outside a life that I feel everybody deserves - to see themselves and for others to see them too. It would allow me to live a healthy and, dare I say it, normal life. It would be no exaggeration to say this would be life changing for me and give me the confidence I’m desperate for. It would provide so much happiness to me. I don’t see it as a luxury but a necessity in order to feel whole and at peace. Sadly, the NHS don't and no support is provided. As a PHD student, my immediate chances of self-funding are unfortunately very limited. Following one dream has meant sacrificing, for a good while, any real opportunity of attaining the financial capability necessary to realise another. I made this decision in order to fulfil my moral and professional aspirations and hopefully make important contributions to matters I consider to be of universal value. This has meant a prolonged internal struggle. My path is currently doubly stressful, struggling with physical dissonance - the solution to which is made more distant by the protracted enterprise that is affected. With your help, and with savings taken into account, I am about £8000 from hitting my goal. Once I do hit this goal, I will be able to arrange a consultation for a life-altering procedure to alter my face, resolve the conflict many trans people feel and, with some support, recognise myself in the mirror finally. Each procedure is specifically tailored to an individual therefore it may include every procedure, or only a few of them. It's all dependant on what a clinician advises. As a trans person, the process from getting from A to B is very long winded and expensive. There is a lot of anxiety, stress and unsatisfaction in one's self involved. FFS is designed to alieviate some of that pain by providing an outward appearance that more closely matches that of a cis woman. This is ultimately my goal. Unfortunately in many places this is seen as a luxury, however for the vast number of us who are interested in this procedure, it is an essential part of providing that confidence we so greatly desire. The confidence in oneself is one of the key motivators in seeking assistance. And with your help, it can be a reality. It is no small thing to claim this would be one of the most significant and important processes I would go through in my life. And I am extremely grateful for any support! Thank you <3