Meet Cay

Cay (any pronouns) is a Latinx, Indigenous, and Black trans femme person from Michigan seeking facial feminization surgery. Cay is employed and provides for herself and her partner, both of whom live with multiple disabilities that require ongoing care and treatment "Balancing the costs of our healthcare, education debt, housing, transportation, and groceries places significant financial stress on me," she shares. "As an immigrant, minority, and DACA recipient, I experience additional set of barriers."

Cay's employer does not currently cover gender-affirming surgery or HRT access under the plan it offers, and Cay's attempts to have gender-affirming care covered by state Medicaid have been unsuccessful. Because of Cay's citizenship status as an immigrant from South America, she has income limitations.

"I am dedicated to furthering my own education and working towards improving pathways to success for others," she says. "I actively seek opportunities to contribute positively to my community and my journey as a transgender immigrant has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose."

"As an immigrant, transgender and first-generation college woman, I am passionate about ensuring representation for the communities like mine, who often miss out on opportunities due to lack education, resources and support." In a free time she volunteers as a paralegal and non-profits, working alongside immigrant and LGBTQ+ community. She is excited for her future to "finally live my truth" and celebrated this milestone by enrolling in a ballet class, a dream of hers come true: "I am ready to see the mirror reflect the girl, the woman I know I have always been."