Meet Mandy
Mandy's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Mandy (she/her) has faced immense challenges as a transgender woman living in Saudi Arabia. She has encountered severe restrictions in accessing gender-affirming care, including job discrimination, financial instability, and legal risks that make even seeking insurance coverage dangerous. “I had once saved for my surgery, working extra hours to make it happen, but I lost everything due to war and displacement. Now, without a steady income or personal savings, I need help to take this next step in my transition.”
Despite these hardships, Mandy has meticulously researched her options, identified multiple U.S. clinics for gender-affirming surgery, and prepared initial funds for visa and travel expenses. She has also developed a detailed post-operative care plan, arranging for home nursing services and online medical consultations to ensure a safe and supported recovery. “Given my non-supportive environment, it’s crucial for me to stay in the U.S. for my recovery. This surgery is not just about gender affirmation—it’s about survival and having the chance to live authentically.”
Mandy’s passion for advocacy began at 15 when she started volunteering with organizations focused on children's rights and LGBTQ+ equality. Now, her dream is to create lasting change for LGBTQ+ individuals in Sudan, ensuring they have access to the rights and freedoms she has fought so hard to achieve. “The challenges I’ve faced have shaped me into the person I am today. I want to use my experiences to ensure that no one else has to endure what I have.” With this surgery, Mandy hopes to not only affirm her own identity but also continue her fight for a more just and inclusive world.
Mandy's timeline
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Award Granted
March 5, 2025
Mandy was awarded a grant toward gender affirming surgery!
Grant details
$39,550 towards gender-affirming care.
Stream-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Mandy get the care they need and deserve.
About MTF Bottom Surgery
On average, it costs $35,000+ for Mandy's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
MTF bottom surgery is also known as gender-affirming vaginoplasty or genital reconstruction surgery. Bottom surgery typically involves multiple surgical techniques and varies widely based on a person’s individual needs and desired outcome.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Before undergoing surgery, trans individuals typically experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. Patients will undergo extensive consultations to discuss their goals, expectations, and surgical options. It is often a long and challenging process to be approved for surgery.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
While bottom surgery is often categorized as a covered benefit in many insurance plans, the reality is that it's frequently denied coverage. Many people report unsuccessful attempts to appeal for coverage. In addition, finding skilled surgeons experienced in performing top surgery can be extremely challenging, particularly in states and regions most affected by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
The recovery period for bottom surgery is significant: depending on the individual, it may take several months to heal from the surgery. Most trans folks report greatly improved self-esteem, confidence, and sense of authenticity, which translates into greater opportunities in employment and more.