Meet Aspen
Aspen's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Aspen (she/they) is a talented artist and full-time salon worker who has worked tirelessly to build a stable life despite financial and personal hardships. After experiencing familial rejection and dropping out of high school, she turned their life around and found success in their creative work. However, living paycheck to paycheck has made saving for gender-affirming care nearly impossible. “I’ve been fortunate to have Medicaid these past few years, which helped me make progress in my transition. But now, I’m losing my coverage because I make just a couple hundred dollars over the limit.”
The looming loss of her insurance has left Aspen terrified that their long-planned top surgery will slip out of reach. Still, they remain determined. They’ve carefully researched their surgeon, consulted trans women in their community who have had the procedure, and built a strong recovery plan with the support of their friends and partner. “I know this surgery will change my life, and I’ve worked so hard to get to this point.”
Beyond their transition, Aspen is passionate about multimedia art, highlighting the beauty and strength of their communities through creative work. With this surgery, Aspen hopes to move forward with confidence—both in their body and in the creative future she is building.
Aspen's timeline
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Award Granted
March 5, 2025
Aspen was awarded a grant toward gender affirming surgery!
Grant details
$8,300 towards gender-affirming care.
Stream-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Aspen get the care they need and deserve.
About MTF Top Surgery
On average, it costs $9,000+ for Aspen's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
MTF top surgery is typically a breast augmentation, a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size or improving the shape of the breasts. The procedure is customized to each individual’s desired outcome.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Prior to care, many trans femme folks experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. We commonly hear from applicants that they feel “simply incomplete” without access to care, which often leads to less confidence, safety when in public, and access to life opportunities.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
Breast augmentation is often considered a cosmetic surgery and is therefore unlikely to be covered by insurance. It can also be hard for trans femme folks to find affirming surgeons in their region, especially in states and regions most impacted by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Many trans folks who undergo top surgery report massive improvements to their overall well-being and mental health, leading to increased confidence and more comfort in relationships, navigating public spaces, and more.