Meet Eli
Eli's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Eli (he/him) is a 24-year-old, disabled, hard-of-hearing trans male seeking testosterone to finally become who he’s always known himself to be. He lives with challenges everyday to make ends meet to even pay bills and buy groceries. He lives in a state in the Bible Belt where doctors do not take him seriously when he says he’s trans. He shared that he often struggles to feel like himself when constantly deadnamed and misgendered by those around him.
Despite this, he still manages to hold onto the hope to become his full unique self. He describes himself as loving and kind, and devoted to his married partner: "We love each other without a shadow of a doubt, through tough and dark times." He is excited to see himself change into a handsome man and looks forward to proudly call himself a husband to his spouse.
Eli's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 22, 2022
Eli was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 12, 2022
Eli was seen by his HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
December 21, 2022
Eli shared, "I'm finally, after years of knowing who I am, becoming that man each and every day since day one of starting testosterone on September 19th! It means that I'm finally able to start loving myself and hope that I can continue the journey for years to come if I'm able to afford it".
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Eli get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Eli'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.