Meet Ashley
Ashley's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Ashley (she/it) came out 5 years ago at age 16 to her very conservative family. Back then, she promised herself she would get on HRT as soon as she turned 18. Of course, reality tends to work out differently than we might want it to, so she went through a good portion of her adulthood with the thought she would never get the HRT she needed. She went through several jobs trying to save money, but it never seemed to work out.
Ashley is a musician. She’s had an extreme interest in music from a young age, working on songs since she was in middle school. Her primary goal in life has been to get to a point where she can make money off music. She wants to be a rock star in a scene that sees little trans representation.
For Ashley, just receiving the news that she received the grant has been a great boost for her mental health. She has been so happy with the news that she will be receiving HRT that she can hardly imagine how much happier she will be when she finally receives it. She’s lived the last 5 years of her life scared of showing who she is, but she thinks this will finally be the thing that makes her feel like she can show herself in full capacity.
Ashley's timeline
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Award Granted
September 24, 2024
Ashley was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$1,200 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Ashley get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Ashley'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.