Meet Rat
Rat's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Rat (he/they) lives in a small conservative town and is struggling to access gender-affirming care. The closest gender affirming clinic is an hour away, and with unreliable transportation, making that journey is incredibly difficult. Rat’s insurance does not cover HRT or gender-affirming care and paying out of pocket is not feasible with a single-income household.
Rat has been unemployed since the 2020 pandemic, which caused a mental health crisis that prevented them from completing their diploma. In addition to ongoing mental health struggles, Rat experiences undiagnosed chronic pain and symptoms of POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), making everyday life even more challenging.
Their partner works full-time in a physically demanding warehouse job, barely managing to cover their bills each month. As Rat continues to battle the mental and physical toll of living in a body that doesn’t align with their identity, the need for HRT has become more urgent. They explain, “HRT would be the gateway to so much healing for me.”
Rat's timeline
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Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Rat was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Rat get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Rat'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.