Meet Alessia
Alessia's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Alessia (she/her) is a disabled trans woman who endured significant struggles during the pandemic, leading to theloss of her job, home, and ability to afford medication. As a result, she had to relocate and move in with a friend who graciously offered her a place to stay. Initially, Alessia managed without her care, but it quickly took a toll on her mental health.
Despite these challenges, Alessia remains happily married and is a devoted cat mom. While her disability limits her social life, it hasn’t stopped her from rediscovering her passion for art and dedicating hours each day to learning French, her husband’s first language.
Receiving gender-affirming care will allow Alessia to truly be herself—something she has longed for after living three decades in a body that never felt right. She shares, “When I realized who I was inside, everything clicked into place.”
Alessia's timeline
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Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Alessia was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$800 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Alessia get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Alessia's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, 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?
Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing 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.