Meet Andy
Andy's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Andy (he/they) is a disabled trans man living with chronic pain, seeking hormone therapy via testosterone. In the future, he hopes to access surgery through his insurance, should it one day provide coverage. Andy faces extensive financial limitations and has lived in systemic poverty since the age of twelve. Due to mobility issues and an inability to access vehicular transport, he has encountered multiple barriers in obtaining the care he desperately needs. Without such care, Andy feels stagnant.
Andy loves animals, enjoys working on small coding projects, and has a strong support system with his chosen family. He’s a gamer, a reader, and collects bookmarks as well as gemstones and crystals. Overcoming past addiction issues has been a significant step in Andy’s personal development, shaping his views on various real-world issues, including advocating for the recognition of addiction as an illness.
Andy shares, “If I manage to get this grant, which would be the first time I’ve won anything in my life, I can finally look at myself in the mirror. I can love myself and feel confidence, pride—things I’ve never felt before. This means the world to me, my self-esteem... everything.” He’s excited about the future and believes this grant would provide him with a new chance at life.
Andy's timeline
-
Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Andy was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$2,475 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Andy get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Andy'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.