Meet Koda
Koda's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Koda (he/him) is an 18 year-old black trans man. Having just graduated high school, he's struggled to land a job and deal with mental health issues and transitioning with little to no assistance from his unsupportive family. With having no financial support and trying to get himself on his feet, it's been nearly impossible to medically transition and feel comfortable in his own skin.
Koda is an amateur voice actor and artist and frequently engages in musical/theatrical activities, such as guitar and singing. Koda is ecstatic to start hormone therapy. He cannot wait to have a voice that fits him comfortably, and a body that he can be confident in.
Koda's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 29, 2022
Koda was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 8, 2022
Koda was seen by his HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
December 18, 2022
Koda shared, "My quality of life has improved an amazing amount. I've never felt more comfortable and hopeful about my body and myself like this in years. It gets me through the day and gives me hope to strive forward so that in the future I can finally look and feel the way I do on the inside. It's a life-saving treatment for me. I plan to start getting a consultation for top surgery soon."
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Koda get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Koda'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.