Meet Arlo
Arlo's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Arlo (he/they) is a single parent of two children "who are my entire world." He shared, "It has been a dream of mine to be able to start this journey of living as my true self for years. Financially it has not been an option for me due to financial stress. I can not believe I have been selected and given this chance of a lifetime. I am beyond grateful and overcome with emotion at the mere thought of being able to begin this journey."
Arlo says he likes to make everyone feel included and seen, and that it's his mission to make everyone he comes into contact with feel loved and supported. On receiving access to HRT, Arlo said, "It will dramatically impact everything. The weighted depression I feel daily from being stuck in this image that is not me, and the gender dysphoria will finally be lifted."
Arlo's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 22, 2022
Arlo was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
Update
August 16, 2022
Arlo shared, "I haven't begun my medical transition yet as it starts in October. However, I have noticed some extreme confidence and hope for my future. For the first time in a long time I feel very hopeful and I know this is just the first of many other firsts! This means me making space for myself for once! It means access to how I've always seen myself internally. It means leading a happy and healthy life filled with joy and experiences rather than just letting life pass me by. Really just hopefulness for this journey to physically start. The mental shifts I've been so wildly positive already. ". -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 13, 2022
Arlo was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
December 24, 2022
Arlo shared, "[My quality of life has changed] DRAMATICALLY for the best. I have never felt this at home in my body before. I am so incredibly happy to be able to wake up to myself every morning. This has changed my life! I never knew I could be this happy before. This opportunity to access care that has been out of reach for me has given me my life back. My voice getting deeper and the hair on my face and body have been so affirming for me!". -
Update
March 22, 2023
Arlo shared, "[Access to HRT] means finally being able to live authentically me. It has opened up doors in my life that I never thought I deserved. It's really made me feel worthy of existing as my true self. I am meeting with an attorney to start the process of changing my name and gender marker! I am very excited about that!". -
Update
June 24, 2023
Arlo shared, "Having this access has given me the opportunity to dig deep and actually meet myself! It's given me my life back."
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Arlo get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Arlo'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.