Meet Jessica
Jessica's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Jessica (she/her) is a trans woman of color living in the South, where access to gender-affirming care is limited. Living with a disability and anxiety, Jessica faces significant barriers to receiving the care she needs. She was previously on HRT for four years. However, when she became homeless and had to relocate to Mississippi, she lost access to her medication. Her provider couldn’t serve her in her new location, and Jessica has been off HRT for over a year.
Jessica now works a minimum-wage job, living paycheck to paycheck. The healthcare infrastructure in Mississippi offers limited support for trans people, and her insurance does not cover trans care. Jessica's access to healthcare providers is further restricted by Jessica’s inability to drive due to her anxiety.
Being on HRT previously had a significant positive impact on Jessica's mental health, reducing her depression and helping her feel more comfortable in her body. Receiving 12 months of HRT would not only help Jessica feel more like herself again but would also improve her mental health and overall well-being.
Jessica's timeline
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Award Granted
August 26, 2024
Jessica was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$800 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Jessica get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Jessica's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, 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?
Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing 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.