I'm Lake, a queer trans individual from Birmingham, AL and I urgently need help to escape America. The current administration poses severe risk to my wellbeing and safety. Thank you for taking the time to listen!
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Hello! I never could have imagined that I would find myself in this heart-wrenching situation. But here I stand, vulnerable and hopeful.
My name is Lake and I am a proud queer, trans individual living in Birmingham, AL. My days are devoted to passionately advocating for the LGBT+ community. In my spare moments, I pour my heart into volunteering and uplifting others. Those who know me understand that I would give the very shirt off my back to help someone in distress. Helping others is not just my highest value; it's the very essence of who I am.
And now, the tide has turned and I find myself in desperate need of help.
In 2023, I escaped a marriage that had trapped me in a web of mental, physical, and emotional abuse. For 9 years, I tried to break free. But I was utterly isolated from friends and family or any help at all. He had financial control over my life and controlled my ability to work as I am disabled and unable to drive. My dependence on him extinguished my independence, leaving me lost and broken. In one night, I was forced out of my home with only my beloved cat and a handful of cherished belongings. I had to abandon everything else, including my sweet dog and precious items I had squirreled away through hard-earned savings and thoughtful gifts.
Since that dark chapter, I have been on a journey to rebuild my life and reclaim the years that were stolen from me. I've formed a circle of cherished friends, found steady work in a field I adore, and what once was a best friendship has blossomed into the love of my life. We got engaged on Halloween 2024, solidifying dreams of a future together as I plan to immigrate to Austria. This new home promises a fresh start, surrounded by people who love and support me as I pursue my dream of returning to university in order to become a therapist so I can continue helping others.
But now, my dreams hang by a thread. Recent changes in America's administration have cast a shadow over my existence. My life and wellbeing have been met with alarming threats solely because I am trans. Malicious misgendering and living in a constant state of fear has plunged me into a darkness I fight to escape daily. Terror clings to me like a second skin and I don’t feel safe even in my own apartment. Yet, even in this terrifying time, I am determined to support my local queer community in any way that I can. I know we are all struggling and yearning for a shoulder to lean on.
I deserve to feel safe, to experience a life filled with softness and joy. I've fought tooth and nail for survival. I've been homelessness, endured nights where I could only afford sleep for dinner, and questioned whether I would even make it at all.
And now here I am, reaching out with a plea: please help me escape America and embrace my new life.
Here are my immediately known financial needs:
You may notice that I’m pursuing both a passport and a passport update. I’m currently navigating the courts to change my legal name, but given the urgency of my circumstances, I’m securing a passport with my deadname for now in case things worsen even further. Once my name change is granted, I can update my passport at a reduced cost. Many expenses I’ve listed are estimates, as final costs remain uncertain until payment time approaches.
Even with meticulous planning, I anticipate unexpected expenses. I’ll need to acquire additional luggage and travel essentials, as well as crucial living items once I settle into my new home such as hygiene products, clothing, furniture, and more. A financial cushion would be much appreciated as I seek employment and navigate unforeseen hurdles. My goal encompasses these challenges and while the number may appear daunting, every single dollar, every gesture of kindness, every show of support means the world to me.
Please, if you cannot contribute financially, don’t hesitate to share my story. Your voice can amplify my plea and connect my story to others who may be able to assist.
From the depths of my heart, thank you for taking your time to read this and for knowing my story.
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