Meet Russell
Russell's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Russell (they/he) shared, "My journey to obtain what I call my 'integration into self' has been a grounding and patient one. This journey simply fell into place in divine timing and I’ve been able to break free and learn more about myself everyday." They believe their freedom, joy, and sense of grounding are other characteristics that make them who they are. "There is simply no better feeling than existing in harmony with yourself. Receiving gender-affirming healthcare will bring me peace of mind knowing that there are humans out there that are able to be there for those that are significantly under represented and cared for."
Russell's timeline
-
Award Granted
August 8, 2022
Russell was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 8, 2022
Russell was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
January 9, 2023
Russell shared, "I am finally at peace with how comfortable I feel in my body and it feels like my external expression matches with how I feel internally and mentally. It solidifies and affirms who I always knew myself to become. Long term wise, I’m excited to see how I will continue to change physically and grow over time but I feel I’m exactly where I need to be at this point in my life. When I began testosterone I didn’t have a clear idea as to how far I wanted to go in my transition, but I began with a medium dose of T which was very helpful for me to slowly adjust to new changes over the months and even allowed room for my partner to adjust grow with me as well. Not that they would ever dictate how I went about my journey, I just have an empathetic heart and can innerstand how sometimes change can be a little scary and I value her experience of me in our relationship together. Additionally, I’ve also began to open up more and express myself outside of my comfort zone because I feel safer and more confident in my new body." -
Update
April 13, 2023
Russell shared, "So far my quality of life has been new, exciting, and freeing while also sometimes dealing with the anxiety of who and what I once was. Embracing the dream I’ve sought since I was a kid is simply surreal and something I know will personally take me time to fully ground in as the new me is working on holding onto and embracing the loving community that’s been prepared for me at this moment in my life. For me, having access to HRT for my daily life and long term goals is a blessing that I don’t take for granted or take lightly. When it comes to my transition, I didn’t transition to become a transman, but rather to fully embody the duality of my physical form and my soul. I feel that I have the mind and physical form of a masculine, but I still carry the sensitivity and intuition of the feminine energy which allows me to better understand polarity and spectrum between woman and man. ". -
Update
August 15, 2023
Russell shared, "HRT has been an affirming journey for myself to experience and felt like it gave me one more chance to live life the way my soul has always felt."
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Russell get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Russell'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.