I'm a transgender male (FTM) meaning I was born in a female body but I identify as male. I'm making this JustGiving page to raise funds which will go towards top surgery, something that I have wanted since I was 15, when I came out as transgender. Money raised will also have to go towards travel and accommodation as the surgery will take place in London and I am based in Cumbria. This life changing surgery will massively improve both my dysphoria and mental health issues; allowing me to focus on my future university studies and be happier in my body. I intend to study psychology and these studies have already been deferred for a year and I wouldn't like to think I have to put my life on hold any longer.

Being trans took its toll on me during school and sixth form because the anxiety it causes can prevent me from leaving the house. This paired with the everyday stress of being a teenager and exam pressure led me to need regular appointments with mental health professionals so I could learn to cope with anxiety, depression and self-harm; all stemming from my realisation that I am in the wrong body. However this is not enough for me to fully recover. I need the medical intervention that will help me to look like the person I am inside, so that I can be happy to share who I am without the worries of being perceived as female.

I have been a patient of gender clinics for almost 4 years and am due to start testosterone on the NHS soon. The wait has been agonising for me as my dysphoria continues to prevent me from doing things I'd like to which worsens the longer I spend in a body which doesn't align with my brain. To avoid this when it comes to surgery, I am pursuing private treatment.

If the surgery and travel/accommodation costs turn out to be less than the money raised, I will use the remaining funds to do binder giveaways to other trans guys or donate to The LGBT Foundation and the LGBTQ+ youth group in my local area where support is very limited.

My Facebook page: Liam's Top Surgery -FTM transgender https://www.facebook.com/LiamsTransition/?modal=admin_todo_tour