Meet Maddison
Maddison's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Maddison (she/her) is a 36-year-old trans woman from South Carolina. Despite facing significant challenges, she has managed to obtain two years of hormones and breast augmentation through great compassion and dedication. The journey to obtain these treatments was very difficult, and without the help and support of her family and friends, it might not have been possible.
To save enough money, Maddison had to live in an uncomfortable situation to keep her rent low and work countless hours, all while dealing with a serious spinal injury. Currently, she is disabled and struggles with inadequate health insurance.
Receiving hair removal support would save Maddison from the daily back and neck pain she endures from shaving and plucking her facial hair. "It will greatly boost my self-esteem in regards to my physical appearance and self-confidence in public," she explains.
"My selfless personality, my ambition to push through my disability, and my creative eye for fashion and design have all been driving forces," Maddison shares. "My determination to fulfill my aspirations and goals, even through my disability, has kept me going."
Maddison's timeline
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Award Granted
April 6, 2024
Maddison was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Maddison get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Maddison's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.