Meet Erin
Erin's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Erin (they/he) is a 19-year-old disabled trans masc individual seeking HRT. Their lack of employment due to their disability, along with local transphobic legislation, has meant he's been able to afford the high costs of medication. Erin is a fun-loving nerd, who loves playing video games and Dungeons & Dragons with their friends and family. Despite his disability, he has dreams of becoming a meteorologist and takes the opportunity to study any chance they get.
Erin is excited to start HRT and start to be able to live as themself: "I will finally begin to conquer the dysphoria that has plagued me for years."
Erin's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 13, 2023
Erin was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
November 10, 2023
Erin was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
February 22, 2024
Erin shared, "My quality of life has improved so much. I'm not constantly worrying how, or even if, I can get access to HRT due to the cost and excessive amount of anti trans laws that further add to the cost. I feel like I'm actually able to do something about my dysphoria without the fear of bills going unpaid. My dysphoria is not on the forefront of my mind anymore. I'm able to focus on other important aspects of my life like school and socializing without dysphoria stopping me. This has improved my morale drastically, I have high hopes now that I'll be able to access further gender affirming care in the future, like top surgery. My overall mental health has improved so much, I've found myself to be way more social than I had been before. Pre-transition I used to stay quiet in an effort to avoid hearing my own voice but now I hardly even notice my own voice, which is a breath of fresh air in comparison to my hyperawareness pre-transition."
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Erin get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Erin'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.