Meet Dayna
Dayna's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Dayna (she/her) is a 62-year-old disabled trans woman seeking breast augmentation surgery. She lives with significant financial challenges: due to the high cost of her medications, she is barely able to make ends meet on her current SSDI income. In the past, Dayna also dealt with housing insecurity.
In her application, Dayna shared, “I need to see a surgeon that is in Maryland, but none of them [accept my health insurance plan.] Being disabled, using a cane, and having little money, I wouldn’t be able to travel to another provider.”
After her surgery was denied by her health insurance, Dayna turned to GoFundMe and other fundraising avenues, but still was unable to afford the care she needs. As a result, she’s felt “simply incomplete.”
Dayna is an active member in her community, helping homebound seniors by bringing them food twice a week. She is excited for post-op life, and to have that sense of completeness that has been missing. She shared, “I’m excited to just wear a tank top, to be able to walk around with confidence, and without shame. I didn’t think I’d live as long as I have, and I just want to live to be the beautiful and fabulous self I know myself to be.”
Dayna's timeline
-
Award Granted
June 21, 2021
Dayna was granted a Surgery Fund Award! -
Care Received
November 9, 2021
Dayna has successfully completed surgery! -
Update
August 14, 2024
Dayna shared, "I feel so much more alive. I’m not afraid to come out of my home anymore. I’m 66 years old now and I am just beginning to live my life to the fullest."
Grant details
$6,500 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Dayna get the care they need and deserve.
About MTF Top Surgery
On average, it costs $9,000+ for Dayna's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
MTF top surgery is typically a breast augmentation, a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size or improving the shape of the breasts. The procedure is customized to each individual’s desired outcome.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Prior to care, many trans femme folks experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. We commonly hear from applicants that they feel “simply incomplete” without access to care, which often leads to less confidence, safety when in public, and access to life opportunities.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
Breast augmentation is often considered a cosmetic surgery and is therefore unlikely to be covered by insurance. It can also be hard for trans femme folks to find affirming surgeons in their region, especially in states and regions most impacted by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Many trans folks who undergo top surgery report massive improvements to their overall well-being and mental health, leading to increased confidence and more comfort in relationships, navigating public spaces, and more.