Meet Rilo
Rilo's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Rilo (they/them) is a 28-year-old non-binary trans person who has faced a lot of challenges: they have been uninsured and housing insecure for some time, and are a recent survivor of domestic abuse. They have found it very difficult to find support and resources, but are determined to rebuild their life in a holistic way, and knew skipping over their need for life-saving healthcare was not an option anymore. Through access to HRT, Rilo is excited about being able to walk their dog every day without being riddled with dysphoria.
"I most look forward to being outside, in the sunshine, without having to hunch over or hang my head when people pass by. I want to relax my shoulders and turn my face towards the sky and feel euphoric."
Rilo is a very dedicated pet parent, and their favorite thing they accomplished this year was raising two baby goats from birth. Their favorite hobby is writing poetry and drawing comics. As a first-generation Haitian, Rilo is passionately invested in decolonizing and returning to ancestral and indigenous ways of thinking, as a way to enact global liberation.
Rilo's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 13, 2023
Rilo was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
October 9, 2023
Rilo was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider.
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Rilo get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Rilo'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.