Meet Hunter
Hunter's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Hunter (he/they) is a nonbinary transmasc person who has spent years navigating barriers to gender-affirming care, financial instability, and an unsupportive home environment. Despite working full-time, saving for top surgery has been a constant struggle, as every step forward seemed to be met with another obstacle—whether it was unstable employment, insurance rejections, or the pressure to leave home due to their transition. “My desire for top surgery drove a wedge between my family and me,” Hunter shared. “I was told I have to move out, so all of my savings are now going toward finding housing.”
While on Medicaid, Hunter was able to find a surgeon and secure a consultation, but their procedure was denied by insurance, pushing back their timeline even further. Despite these challenges, Hunter remained determined. They created a resource guide for other trans people seeking top surgery in New York, compiling insurance advice, surgeon recommendations, recovery tips, and grant opportunities—proving their dedication to both their own journey and the well-being of their community.
Hunter finds joy in creativity, cooking, and building chosen family. Whether experimenting with new recipes, gathering for poetry and DnD nights, or traveling to meet up with their closest friends, they thrive in spaces where they are fully seen and supported. “Without my chosen family, I don’t think I would be the fullest, brightest version of myself,” they reflected. Hunter will finally be able to move forward with top surgery and take another step toward the life they’ve been working so hard to build.
Hunter's timeline
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Award Granted
March 9, 2025
Hunter was awarded a grant toward gender affirming surgery!
Grant details
$19,550 towards gender-affirming care.
Stream-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Hunter get the care they need and deserve.
About FTM Top Surgery
On average, it costs $12,000+ for Hunter's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
FTM/N top surgery is a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest contour to create a more traditionally masculine or gender-neutral appearance.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Prior to care, many trans masc people experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. One of the most common and heartbreaking experiences we hear from applicants is that they cannot give hugs to their loved ones without feeling intense distress with their chest. In addition, reliance on chest binding can cause strain over long periods of time.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
While top surgery is often categorized as a covered benefit in many insurance plans, the reality is that it's frequently denied coverage. Many people report unsuccessful attempts to appeal for coverage. In addition, finding skilled surgeons experienced in performing top surgery can be extremely challenging, particularly in states and regions most affected by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Many trans folks who undergo top surgery report massive improvements to their overall well-being and mental health, leading to increased confidence and more comfort in relationships, navigating public spaces, and more.