Meet Jasper
Jasper's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Jasper (he/him) is a Afro-Latinx trans man trying to make ends meet. While he was able to overcome homelessness a year ago, his life has felt like a rollercoaster navigating employment challenges and anti-trans laws in his home state of Florida.
"Jobs seem fearful to hire trans people right now. I've been crowdfunding to get by, but it hasn't been enough to cover my hormones, which has led to me being off my medication for two months now," Jasper shares. "As a trans man who unfortunately does not have the financial stability to consider top surgery at this time, my weekly T shot is the only thing that can provide some relief to the immense amount of dysphoria I wake up with every day. Having to miss my shots for weeks on end would send me into a spiral."
Jasper is techno DJ and co-founder of the event collective Cyber Island, which aims to create safe, fun spaces for trans people and people who typically can't access raves due to disability or financial instability.
Jasper's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 15, 2023
Jasper was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
October 23, 2023
Jasper was seen by his HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
July 23, 2024
Jasper shared, "For me HRT means being able to wake up in the morning and feel like myself. It means i dont have to feel out of body in a vessel that belongs to me. HRT has given me hope that one day... I will be perceived as my true self by my loved ones and the world, but mostly myself. I get the privlege of looking in the mirror and recognizing myself. I am beyond thankful for that each and every day."
Grant details
$900 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Jasper get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Jasper'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.