Meet Cadence
Cadence's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Cadence (she/they) is a 36-year-old trans woman in a challenging housing situation, seeking electrolysis for her facial hair. After her business was shut down by COVID-19, she has been trying to rebuild her life while transitioning, but the process has been slow with numerous setbacks.
"I am looking forward to the day when I no longer has to shave so frequently to feel like myself," she shares. "I have dark, coarse hair along with sensitive skin, and even with the best shaving supplies, the hair is never fully gone."
An aspiring novelist, Cadence divides her free time between writing and reading queer fiction. She also hopes to build a community of queer writers in her hometown of Pittsburgh.
Cadence's timeline
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Award Granted
April 6, 2024
Cadence was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
May 1, 2024
A payment has been made toward Cadence's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
June 4, 2024
A payment has been made toward Cadence's permanent hair removal!
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Update
July 14, 2024
Cadence shared, "Transitioning isn't easy, but it's been nice to see more of me appear as I get more of my facial hair removed. The skin, without any hair ready grow under the surface, looks so much better, so much more like me. It's painful and time-consuming, but it's worth it.
There simply wasn't any way I could've afforded this on my own, so my future's looking a little sweeter."
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Care Received
July 18, 2024
A payment has been made toward Cadence's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
September 3, 2024
A payment has been made toward Cadence's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Cadence get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Cadence's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.