Campaign Story

Help me Start a Family: Overcoming Challenges as Gay Men on Supplemental Security Income Hello everyone, I am reaching out to you today with a heartfelt plea for support as I embark on my journey to start a family through surrogacy. As gay men on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), I face unique challenges that make this dream more difficult to achieve. I am determined to overcome these obstacles and create a loving and nurturing home for my future child, but I need your help to make it a reality. 1. Financial Constraints: SSI provides me with a fixed income, which makes it incredibly challenging for me to afford the high costs associated with surrogacy. From medical expenses to legal fees and agency fees, the financial burden is overwhelming. Your generous contributions will help me cover these expenses and provide a stable foundation for my future family. 2. Limited Support and Resources: As gay men on SSI, I, often find myself lacking the support and resources specifically tailored to my unique situation. This lack of guidance and assistance can be isolating and discouraging. Your support will not only help me financially but also provide me with the encouragement and sense of community that I desperately need, considering I have always wanted to become a father considering I grew up as an only child. 3. Legal Barriers: Depending on the jurisdiction, there may be legal barriers for gay couples or individuals who want to pursue surrogacy or adoption. I will navigate these legal complexities with the help of experienced professionals, but legal fees can add up quickly. Your contributions will help me ensure that we have the necessary legal support to protect my rights and the rights of my future child. 4. Discrimination and Stigma: Sadly, discrimination and stigma still exist towards gay men who wish to become parents through surrogacy or adoption. It takes a toll on my emotional well-being as I strive to create a loving and inclusive environment for my child. Your support and encouragement will help me overcome these challenges and build a future where my child can grow up free from prejudice and discrimination. 5. Access to Healthcare: As individuals on SSI, access to comprehensive healthcare coverage is limited. Finding affordable and inclusive healthcare providers who understand the unique needs and considerations of gay men pursuing surrogacy or adoption can be a daunting task. But With your assistance, I can ensure that I have access to the necessary healthcare services for a successful surrogacy journey. 6. Social Support: One of the greatest challenges I face is finding social support and understanding from my communities and families. Acceptance and validation are crucial as I embark on this life-changing journey. Your support will not only provide me with the emotional strength I need but also help me advocate for inclusive policies and support systems that address these challenges and ensure equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or financial circumstances. I do firmly believe that every person, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of parenthood. With your help, I can overcome the challenges I myself face as gay men on SSI and create a loving and nurturing home for my future child. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in my journey. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering supporting my campaign. Together, I can make my dreams of starting a family a reality.

Sincerely

Michael Benjamin DeFiore
Kevin DeFiore