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Meet E.L.

E.L.

E.L.'s story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Even though bottom surgery was covered by E.L.'s insurance, electrolysis was sadly not. E.L. lives with extreme gender dysphoria, autism, ADHD, and physical limitations with her ability to sit, stand, or walk for any long-term duration, meaning she cannot work. Unable to afford the prerequisite health care requirements for her life-affirming surgery, she reached out and applied for an electrolysis grant through Point of Pride.

Despite having no family, E.L. comes from one of the rarest and most unique cultural backgrounds. This has been both a wonderful piece of her own identity and also made living in this country extremely difficult.

E.L. will finally be free of her extreme dysphoria, free to not feel fear, free of her nightmares, free from pain and mental suffering and anguish. E.L. can finally start her life, one which she never had before. She can only look forward to her freedom and is amazed and awestruck by the chance she now has to fully grasp that freedom.

E.L.'s timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 8, 2024

    E.L. was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    August 20, 2024

    A payment has been made toward E.L.'s permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    September 4, 2024

    A payment has been made toward E.L.'s permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for E.L.'s 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.