Meet Ro
Ro's story
Thrive Fund recipient
Ro (they/them) is nonbinary and navigating the challenges of living authentically in a world that often fails to recognize and affirm their identity. Despite facing financial and physical limitations, Ro is determined to take steps toward feeling safer and more confident in public spaces. They believe that a wig will help reduce the transphobia they encounter by allowing them to pass as a woman, offering a vital layer of safety and comfort in their daily life.
Living with disabilities and managing a limited income, Ro works part-time and covers all their expenses independently, including rent, utilities, and transportation. Alopecia and accessibility barriers have prevented them from growing out their hair or accessing the high-quality wig fitting they need, but they remain hopeful that securing a wig will decrease the paranoia and anxiety they experience in public.
For Ro, the opportunity to wear a wig represents more than just a change in appearance—it’s a pathway to safety, confidence, and the ability to navigate the world with greater joy and peace. After years of increasing transphobia, they are ready to reclaim a sense of security and empowerment as they move forward in their journey.
Ro's timeline
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Award Granted
November 25, 2024
Ro was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
Grant details
$2,500 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Ro get the care they need and deserve.
About Wig
On average, it costs $400+ for Ro's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Wigs can be a vital tool for trans individuals, particularly trans femme people, to express their gender identity. Wigs are often used to create a hairstyle that aligns with one's presentation, especially when natural hair growth is impacted by genetics, hormones, or medical treatments.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans folks experiencing hair loss or dysphoria around their natural hair, finding a solution that affirms their gender can feel daunting. Without access to an affirming wig, some individuals may avoid public spaces or social interactions due to discomfort or fear of discrimination.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
High-quality wigs can be expensive, often costing hundreds of dollars. Most insurance plans do not cover the cost of wigs. Affordable options are often low quality, less durable, or unrealistic in appearance.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
A well-fitted, high-quality wig can boost confidence, reduce gender dysphoria, and help trans individuals feel more aligned with their gender identity. It can also improve mental health by enabling self-expression and facilitating social integration.