Meet Riley
Riley's story
Thrive Fund recipient
Riley (he/they) is navigating the challenges of managing Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) while tackling the financial burden of high medical bills. Despite having health insurance, Riley is underinsured, which means a significant portion of their medical costs must be paid out of pocket. This leaves little room in their budget for everyday expenses, let alone the critical task of updating their documentation to reflect their identity.
The stress of having outdated documents weighs heavily on Riley, as they are often required to present multiple forms of identification for assistance programs and job applications. Each time they’re asked for a birth certificate or passport that doesn’t match their name or gender marker, Riley faces the risk of being outed in potentially unsafe situations. The constant need to navigate these encounters causes immense anxiety and has even forced them to walk away from resources they desperately need.
Access to this support would provide Riley with the means to update their documentation, allowing them to move through the world with confidence and without fear. It represents not just a practical solution, but also a profound step toward safety, stability, and the ability to fully embrace their authentic self.
Riley's timeline
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Award Granted
November 25, 2024
Riley was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
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December 20, 2024
A payment has been made to Riley's service provider!
Grant details
$440 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Riley get the care they need and deserve.
About Name Change/ID Update
On average, it costs $350+ for Riley's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Updating legal documents such as a name change or updating gender markers on IDs allows trans individuals to align their official records with their gender identity. This often includes changes to a driver’s license, passport, Social Security records, and birth certificates.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Trans folks with IDs that do not reflect their gender identity often face barriers, including job discrimination, housing issues, and challenges when accessing healthcare or traveling. This can lead to a constant need to explain themselves and increases their risk of harassment or discrimination.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
The process and cost vary by state or country, with fees for court orders, certified copies, and updates to multiple documents. Many trans people also face legal, bureaucratic, or discriminatory hurdles, especially in states with restrictive policies. Financial costs can be prohibitive for those with limited resources.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Having accurate IDs improves safety, reduces stress, and provides greater freedom and confidence in daily life. It allows trans individuals to navigate healthcare, public spaces, job applications, and travel without fear of being outed or misgendered.