Meet Joel
Joel's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Joel (he/him) is a 27-year-old trans man of color seeking top and bottom surgery. He has tried to get surgery a year ago but was denied by his healthcare provider. He has no financial support from family, and therefore has been on his own trying to cover his own expenses while trying to survive homelessness.
As a result, Joel has been depressed and felt incomplete. He doesn’t even like looking in the mirror or any reflection of himself. Joel is a musician, he has big goals and dreams and wants to break barriers. He wants to reach his goals so he can give back to his community so it will be less hard for people like himself to find safety, recognition and support. He also loves animals and feeds the stray animals he sees on the streets.
Access to surgery will impact Joel’s life greatly. He shared that he knows surgery will help him truly look at himself for the first time. Joel shared, "Once I am able to feel my chest and I won’t feel weighed down by the thing that wasn’t suppose to be there, I’m going to cry tears of joy. I'll take the biggest inhale. It will be ethereal, and I can’t wait."
Joel's timeline
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Award Granted
March 28, 2022
Joel was granted a Surgery Fund Award! -
Care Received
September 22, 2022
Joel had surgery with Dr. Mosser!
Grant details
$9,775 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Joel get the care they need and deserve.
About FTM Top Surgery
On average, it costs $12,000+ for Joel'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.