Meet Esther
Esther's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Esther (she/they) is an international student from Asia who recently arrived in Santa Monica to study. Without a job and struggling to find one due to the limitations of a student visa, Esther cannot help their brother, who she lives with, pay rent or other necessities. Their parents, who are lower middle class, have been providing some financial assistance, but it is not enough to cover all their needs.
Despite these challenges, Esther and their brother are at critical points in their lives. Esther has suffered from gender dysphoria for the majority of their life, primarily due to facial and body hair that remains visible even after shaving. "Completely removing this hair will be a large step to accomplishing my life goal of living as a woman," Esther shares.
Esther's timeline
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Award Granted
April 8, 2024
Esther was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
June 11, 2024
A payment has been made toward Esther's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
June 17, 2024
A payment has been made toward Esther's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
June 26, 2024
A payment has been made toward Esther's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
July 8, 2024
A payment has been made toward Esther's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
July 15, 2024
A payment has been made toward Esther's permanent hair removal!
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Update
July 19, 2024
Esther shared, "Since getting electrolysis with Layla, my life has changed for the better. I feel so much more confident and comfortable now, and it's really eased the dysphoria I was experiencing. It's been a huge step toward living as my true self. Having access to electrolysis is a game-changer for me. It means I can feel more at ease every day, not constantly worrying about dysphoria. Long-term, it's freeing up mental space so I can focus more on my ambitions and enjoy life fully as my authentic self."
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Esther get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Esther's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After 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.