Meet Ben
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Ben's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Ben (he/they) is a person of color who is currently experiencing homelessness and unemployment. For some time, he bounced from home to home, but has now found temporary stability living with a trusted friend. However, ongoing back pain significantly limits his physical abilities, making it difficult for him to secure work and build a stable future.
Ben's desire to access hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is deeply tied to his sense of identity and self-affirmation. “It will give me a chance to be able to see myself. I have been wanting to see myself for a long time,” he shares. Despite the challenges he faces, Ben remains hopeful that HRT will provide him with the strength and confidence to continue building a life where he can thrive as his true self. For Ben, HRT represents an opportunity to align his physical appearance with the person he knows himself to be.
Ben's timeline
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Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Ben was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$1,320 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Ben get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Ben'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.