This happens in the US.
I’m in my late 20s, and I have a friend around my age whom I met through a BDSM educational/social event about half a year ago. We’re just friends. We mostly talk online and see each other at BDSM events, but we haven’t really hung out outside of that context. They have a physical disability/chronic health issues, and they’ve mentioned a practical medical accessibility related need that would cost a few hundred dollars.
I’m from an East Asian culture, so I struggle with boundaries sometimes. My friend is from the States. I’m also from a more financially privileged background, so my instinct is to offer help.
If this were a coworker or classmate, I might ask more casually. But because we met in a BDSM context, I’m worried about the power dynamics. I don’t want anything in return, but I don’t want them to feel indebted to me or pressured. I also don’t want money to make the friendship weird.
Would it be okay to say something like, “I don’t want to overstep, but I’d be happy to contribute with (the need), absolutely no pressure”? Or is it just better not to bring it up?
Any advises would be appreciated, especially disabled people from the US. I might hide this post later if it has too much attention, apologize in advance.