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Meet Blake

Blake

Blake's story

Thrive Fund recipient

Blake (he/him) is a determined transgender man living with a disability that has limited his ability to work and contribute to his household's income. Despite his challenges, Blake is supported by his fiancé, who works tirelessly at a low wage job to make ends meet. However, with mounting medical bills, weekly doctor visits, and living below the poverty line, saving for essential gender-affirming care has been nearly impossible for their family.

Spending most of his time at home, Blake faces the daily emotional toll of living in a body that doesn't align with his true self. This misalignment deeply impacts his mental health, which is further compounded by the limitations of his disability. Access to a gender-affirming prosthetic would not only improve Blake’s mental well-being but also provide practical benefits, such as enabling him to use the bathroom with greater ease and confidence—something that would improve his overall quality of life.

For Blake, a prosthetic is more than just a tool—it represents a profound step toward living authentically and feeling like the man he knows himself to be. This support would be transformative, offering him a sense of relief and validation that would allow him to face each day with renewed strength and hope.

Blake's timeline

  • Award Granted

    December 1, 2024

    Blake was awarded a Thrive Fund award!

Grant details

$325 towards gender-affirming care.





About Packer/Prosthetic

On average, it costs $100+ for Blake's care.

What is it?

Packers and prosthetics are devices worn by trans men, trans masc, and non-binary people to provide the appearance of anatomy such as breasts and genitals for a sense of anatomical alignment.

What is life like for a person who needs this care?

Many trans folks experience gender dysphoria related to their bodies or clothing. Lack of access to a packer or prosthetic can intensify feelings of discomfort, especially in social or intimate situations.

How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?

Packers and prosthetics vary in cost, with high-quality options being expensive and often not covered by insurance. For individuals with limited income, even the more affordable options may be out of reach.

What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?

Using a packer or prosthetic can help alleviate dysphoria, boost confidence, and allow trans individuals to feel more aligned with their gender identity in both public and private settings.