Skip to content
Point of Pride staff will be on a break from Dec. 24–Jan. 2. Responses may take longer during this time. Thank you for understanding!

Meet Emilia

Emilia

Emilia's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Emilia (they/she/xe/ze) is a non-binary femme person who has known from a young age that surgery was right for them. The delays in obtaining bottom surgery have been agonizing, and being able to move forward would mean everything to them. Emilia has struggled with dysphoria, anxiety, and depression, and as a Medicaid patient in Colorado, they are concerned that the political climate could change in Fall 2024, potentially causing them to lose the opportunity to complete the surgery.

Receiving this support will significantly impact Emilia's life, allowing them to move forward with their transition and alleviate some of the dysphoria and anxiety they face daily. This assistance would help Emilia live more comfortably and confidently as their true self.

Emilia's timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 9, 2024

    Emilia was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    April 30, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Emilia's permanent hair removal!

  • Update

    June 1, 2024

    Emilia shared, "I have been working towards getting this work done for the last two years and it has felt Ike a dark cloud hanging over me. After being able to start my first 3 sessions, I have felt much more hopeful. Electrolysis has been on hold for me so long because of funds as a student. I am so grateful to be moving forward."

  • Care Received

    July 19, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Emilia's permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    August 7, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Emilia's permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$4,000 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Emilia'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.