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Meet Ryan

Ryan

Ryan's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Ryan (she/her) is a non-binary femme from Georgia. Prior to the end of 2023, she could afford the monthly expenses for electrolysis, but a series of unfortunate events drastically changed her financial situation. Hospitalized with vision problems and faced with the full transmission failure of her fully paid-off car, Ryan suddenly found herself overwhelmed by hospital bills and the cost of a new car, which she needs for work.

"I am constantly running out of money by the end of each month," Ryan shares. Because she gets paid monthly, she finds herself food insecure for the last week of each month, and is starting to fall behind on other bills. Ryan had to max out her credit cards to stay afloat when her car failed, and now has no backup income besides her monthly earnings.

"Financial aid towards hair removal will give me huge peace of mind while my income goes to rent, food, and other necessities."

Ryan's timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 7, 2024

    Ryan was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    April 30, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Ryan's permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    May 31, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Ryan's permanent hair removal!

  • Care Received

    August 13, 2024

    A payment has been made toward Ryan's permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Ryan's care.

What is it?

Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.

What is life like for a person who needs this care?

For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.

What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?

Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.