Meet Kerry
Kerry's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Kerry (she/her) is a proud U.S. Army veteran, a dedicated caregiver, and a loving spouse and parent. Having served from 2010 to 2015, including a deployment to Afghanistan, she now devotes her time to caring for her parents while also supporting her children and wife. Despite the challenges of navigating life with a 70% VA disability rating, she remains active in the LGBTQ+ community within the VA system and volunteers by providing free lawn services for fellow veterans.
Kerry has been on HRT for over a year and has followed WPATH standards for care, but financial barriers have made accessing surgery difficult. “This surgery will help with my transition, relieve my dysphoria, and ease the complications that come with anti-androgen therapy,” she shares.
With the support of her family, friends, and fellow veterans, Kerry is determined to take this next step in her journey. “I have found incredible support through the VA’s LGBTQ+ programs and the Transgender American Veterans Association. This journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m grateful for the community that stands beside me.”
Kerry's timeline
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Award Granted
March 11, 2025
Kerry was awarded a grant toward gender affirming surgery!
Grant details
$11,800 towards gender-affirming care.
Stream-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Kerry get the care they need and deserve.
About Orchiectomy
On average, it costs $4,000+ for Kerry's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Orchiectomy, also known as orchidectomy, is a surgical procedure involving the removal of one or both testicles.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans people, this surgery can be a step in their medical transition, reducing testosterone levels and the need for anti-androgen medications. It often leads to greater physical comfort, mental health benefits, and a deeper connection with their gender identity.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
Many trans and non-binary individuals seek an orchiectomy for gender-affirming care. Many others, however, also have additional medical concerns, including the treatment of certain hormonal conditions or types of cancers. Too often, trans folks who seek care with these additional medical concerns are still denied insurance coverage. It can also be hard for trans folks to find affirming surgeons in their region, especially in states and regions most impacted by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Many trans people who undergo orchiectomy report feeling more at ease in their bodies and experiencing a greater sense of gender alignment. This often leads to improvements in mental health, self-confidence, and overall quality of life.