Meet Pleasant
Pleasant's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Pleasant (they/xe) is a chronically ill non-binary person living in a rural area where the nearest gender affirming clinic is a two-hour drive away. Pleasant is severely limited by their inability to drive and the logistical difficulties of planning frequent trips. Additionally, xe is not out to several of the landowners where xe resides, making these trips not only challenging but potentially dangerous if they were to out themselves accidentally.
Due to chronic migraines that drastically worsened at age 17, Pleasant has been unable to engage in full-time work or school. Xe relies heavily on the support of family for finances, housing, and insurance. However, this support comes with limitations, as the only insurance available is through xeir father's employer—a conservative, Christian organization that does not cover gender-affirming care.
Pleasant's chronic illness and lack of steady employment further complicate the situation, leaving xem with no way to pay for HRT out-of-pocket. Despite these significant barriers, Pleasant remains determined to access hormones, expressing that "Having access to hormones means more to me than I know how to express." This access would be a crucial step toward living authentically and alleviating the mental and emotional distress caused by dysphoria.
Pleasant's timeline
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Award Granted
August 14, 2024
Pleasant was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$900 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Pleasant get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Pleasant'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.