Meet Caleb
Caleb's story
Thrive Fund recipient
Caleb (he/him) is a trans man of color dedicated to living authentically while balancing work, school, and the financial challenges of transitioning. After undergoing top surgery in December 2023, Caleb experienced a wound complication on his right nipple that left extensive scarring and a loss of pigment. While the surgery was a significant step in his journey, the scarring has become a source of dysphoria, preventing him from fully enjoying his new chest. Caleb is seeking medical tattooing to restore the appearance of his nipple, which he believes will help him feel more confident and at home in his body.
As a full-time student working part-time, Caleb faces financial limitations due to his unpredictable work hours, which often amount to only 5-10 hours a week. Caleb receives no financial support for his transition or education and is solely responsible for his expenses. His $800 monthly income goes toward car payments, gas, and medical debt. These constraints make saving for medical tattooing impossible, though it remains a critical step in his journey to affirming his identity.
Having the tattoo would not only alleviate Caleb’s dysphoria but also allow him to return to a passion he had to put aside: competitive swimming. Swimming was once a source of joy and a healthy outlet for stress, but insecurity has kept Caleb from reentering the pool. By restoring his confidence, the tattoo would enable Caleb to reconnect with this important part of his life, improving his physical and mental well-being as he continues to pursue his goals.
Caleb's timeline
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Award Granted
December 5, 2024
Caleb was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
Grant details
$400 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Caleb get the care they need and deserve.
About Medical Tattooing
On average, it costs $750+ for Caleb's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Medical tattooing involves using tattoo techniques to recreate or enhance natural features, such as nipple and areola reconstruction after top surgery or scar camouflage for post-operative scars.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Surgical scars or the absence of natural features like nipples can be a source of dysphoria for many trans folks. Without access to medical tattooing, some individuals may feel dissatisfied with their surgical results or hesitant to fully embrace their new appearance.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
Medical tattooing is often considered cosmetic and rarely covered by insurance. The cost, combined with the challenge of finding a skilled and affirming provider, can make it inaccessible for individuals with limited resources.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Medical tattooing can significantly enhance the appearance of surgical outcomes, improving body confidence and reducing dysphoria. It helps many trans individuals feel more at home in their bodies and complete their gender-affirming journey.