Meet AJ
AJ's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
AJ (he/him) is a 24-year-old trans man who started his journey to become the true him. AJ tried to obtain top surgery was denied due to BMI and insurance. While dealing with that challenge, AJ had to discontinue HRT recently due to financial hardship.
"Receiving this will be a huge relief for me: I won't have to worry about choosing between paying bills or paying for my healthcare. I am incredibly thankful to everyone who has made it possible for me to be able to receive care like this." AJ is very empathetic and always wears his heart on his sleeve. He is always willing to help anyone out if they need it. AJ is also a big animal lover and worked with an animal rescue for a few years.
AJ's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 13, 2023
AJ was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
October 6, 2023
AJ was seen by his HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
January 16, 2024
AJ shared, "I think the quality of my life has [gone] up significantly. I do not have to choose whether or not I have the funds to pay for HRT or a different bill. The immediate sigh of relief knowing that I am able to continue taking it is refreshing. Having this access to HRT is so much better for my mental health. By being allowed to have this grant means that it'll help me become the real me. The person who has been trapped for 25 years. My goals are a work in process one step at a time. First HRT then surgery whenever I can. I am finally able to start growing facial hair (evenly at least). I am starting to get recognized as a man which is so nice and refreshing to think that I am almost there." -
Update
April 7, 2024
AJ shared, "I have definitely grown to start loving myself a lot more. It has been hard with all of the political events happening but it is definitely getting easier. "
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like AJ get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for AJ's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Testosterone+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans men, trans masc, and non-binary people take that result in physical changes which align with their gender identity. Every person's preferences and personal healthcare needs vary, so this can include oral medications, injections, and transdermal patches.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
For trans folks who live in states most impacted by anti-trans healthcare legislation, it can be extremely difficult to find a knowledgeable, trans-affirming provider as well as access prescription medication. Many insurance plans do not cover HRT. For trans folks without insurance coverage, the ongoing out-of-pocket expense can be challenging.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Testosterone+ introduces a wide range of masculinizing physical, emotional, and psychological changes that align with their gender identity. This often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.