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Shae (he/him) is a Two-Spirit person who has spent over a decade working toward his goal of top surgery. As a devoted parent, husband, and community advocate, Shae has navigated significant financial and personal challenges while prioritizing the well-being of his family. The pandemic brought unforeseen hardships, leading to job loss, housing instability, and overwhelming medical debt. Despite these struggles, Shae has remained steadfast in providing for his wife and children, both of whom have medical needs that require out-of-pocket expenses.
Shae has carefully selected an inclusive and experienced surgeon and has taken proactive steps to ensure a smooth recovery, including coordinating support for his children and securing paid sick time at work. His commitment to this process reflects not only his dedication to his own well-being but also his resilience in overcoming systemic barriers to affirming healthcare. “This is 10+ years in progress,” he shares. “I’ve worked so hard to make this possible, and it means everything to finally be at this stage.”
Beyond his personal journey, Shae is deeply committed to serving others. He works in the nonprofit sector, volunteers as a youth soccer coach, and is applying to the police academy in hopes of becoming a visible advocate for trans and Two-Spirit individuals in uniform. “I want to be someone people like me can identify with—someone who stands for the community in spaces where we’re not often seen,” he says. An artist and musician, he channels his creativity into self-expression and community building. His life has been shaped by both struggle and service, and he believes in using his experiences to uplift and support others. For Shae, top surgery is more than a medical procedure—it’s a crucial step toward living authentically and continuing his mission of advocacy and representation.