Meet May
May's story
Thrive Fund recipient
May (she/her) is a transgender woman living in rural Oklahoma who has found joy and fulfillment since beginning her transition in her 40s. For much of her life, she dressed as a woman in private, but it wasn’t until later that she realized her true identity and began to embrace it fully. Transitioning has brought her happiness and a profound sense of self-worth, allowing her to live a life that feels authentic and meaningful.
A devoted partner and parent of five, May is also a passionate storyteller with over 20 years of experience. Before transitioning, she performed as a storyteller for children, but her career shifted dramatically once she began living openly as herself. Despite the initial challenges of losing opportunities in her small, conservative community, May has rebuilt her career by performing as her authentic self. In 2024 alone, she completed 35 performances, including her one-woman show, with appearances at Pride events, college campuses, nightclubs, and more.
May is seeking an at-home hair removal device to help alleviate the dysphoria caused by the need to shave daily. She believes this step will allow her to feel more confident in her appearance and help her continue to grow in her journey. For May, transitioning hasn’t just been life-changing—it has been life-affirming, allowing her to embrace and celebrate the woman she has always been.
May's timeline
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Award Granted
November 25, 2024
May was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
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December 9, 2024
A retail purchase was made on behalf of May!
Grant details
$165 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like May get the care they need and deserve.
About IPL Device
On average, it costs $750+ for May's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) devices are at-home tools for hair reduction or removal. These devices are used by some trans individuals for areas where hair removal is desired but professional electrolysis or laser treatments are inaccessible.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans, even if such services are medical prerequisites for a covered surgery. For people who cannot afford hair removal, they are stuck without options to move forward with their healthcare needs.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
In addition to their average lower cost, IPL devices are a great option for trans people who cannot or do not want to work with a provider due to safety concerns or a preference for the comfort and privacy of at-home care.
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.