Actor Jack Murphy made Irish television history when he became the first trans character to appear on Fair City or any other Irish soap, now the actor is reaching out to fans to support him in his transition.

Jack, who has been on a public waiting list for over two years, has been told it could be almost another two before he receives treatment. He decided to set up a gofundme page to “help raise funds for my chest surgery, to get those things on my chest we don’t talk about removed, as I am a female transitioning to male.”

I’ve been told that I’d be waiting another year and a half if not more on the public list for top surgery, please share this link of my gofundme and hopefully I can get it done privately and start living my life finally! https://t.co/fIVkK7htlM

— Jack Murphy (@jackshaunmurphy) July 4, 2018

He spoke about his journey so far: “I am currently taking testosterone, I’m three years on hormone replacement therapy. To have this surgery is not only going to give me a new lease on life, it’s also going to give me a life, as I have gender dysphoria about my body and looking in the mirror at myself every day is truthfully hell for me.”

Jack explained the high costs involved: “There’s only one surgeon that does this on the public list, I’ve been waiting a very long time. If you want to go private, you have to pay €7,500 for this surgery. It gives me no hope because I can’t afford to pay that myself. For recovery it’d be another €1,500 or so for staying there. Anaesthesia fees, surgeon’s fees, it all adds up.” 

Jack explained the impact the wait is taking on him both physically and mentally; “Wearing a binder is not a good thing for your chest and your health. [It’s] so restricting, it’s also really heavy and warm. I am constantly trying to be in a positive mindset but some days it is hard to do that. I have suffered with my anxiety and depression and some days I don’t want to leave the house and put the binder back on.”

If you would like to support Jack in raising money for his surgery, you can donate here.