Meet Maybelline
Maybelline's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Maybelline (she/her) is an undocumented transgender woman from El Salvador. She has faced significant challenges accessing care due to her immigration status and socioeconomic status. She has tried using DIY hormones on and off, but as she gets older, she wants to make sure she is being safe. Since she doesn't have insurance, it has been really hard for her to receive care through a clinic or doctor's office.
Maybelline is excited to finally be back on hormones, but safely and with supervision this time: "I've been off hormones for almost a year due to lack of access. This has been really hard on me, as I've noticed my body change back in ways I do not like. It causes me a lot of dysphoria. I am looking forward to seeing my body change and feeling more confident in my womanhood." Maybelline is very proud of her trans identity and tries to help her community in any way she can.
Maybelline's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 13, 2023
Maybelline was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
October 1, 2023
Maybelline was seen by her HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
January 11, 2024
Maybelline shared, "Estoy feliz al verme al espejo. Amo como me siento".
Grant details
$800 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Maybelline get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Maybelline's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, 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?
Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing 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.