Meet Sage
Sage's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Sage (she/they) is a 26-year-old trans woman seeking assistance to receive facial laser hair removal. She has been journeying through her transition for three years now. Despite that, Sage still lives with the persistent feeling that she’s trapped inside a body that only somewhat resembles her true self. Most of that time was spent with an abusive family member, and she very suddenly had to move last fall. Since then, all of her resources have gone towards costs of living and the need for her own safe space. Receiving financial assistance would be radically life-changing.
Sage is an artist and a healer who works with plants. "The sense of being a caretaker is something I experience every day in the garden," Sage shares. "A lot of my energy goes towards studying and making medicines for my community."
"For maybe the first time, I will be able to walk around in my body feeling safe," Sage says. "Laser hair removal will go a long way towards helping me feel a sense of comfort in my skin. I have a hard time even visualizing what it will feel like at the end of the road, when laser has done its job, but I know that it will be one of the most profound, life-expanding experiences that I have ever had."
Sage's timeline
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Award Granted
April 6, 2024
Sage was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
April 25, 2024
A payment has been made toward Sage's permanent hair removal!
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Update
June 29, 2024
Sage shared, "Having more of my personal energy available, because it’s not being spent transcending physical dysphoria just to feel alright. I feel safer in public and less obsessive over my appearance. I feel happy when I feel the difference in texture now. I feel much more prepared to focus on my long term goals and dreams because my energy can finally go to other areas of my life.
I tried getting laser hair removal in 2022 when my finances were a lot different, I paid over $1000 and the laser wasn’t actually working.
With Point of Pride I was able to afford to go to an actual medical facility (not a spa) and just ONE session of medical laser removed 80% of my facial hair and gave me IMMENSE relief. I get to wake up now and relax, I don’t have to shave every single morning anymore. Laser + restarting HRT are working together to give me relief I never knew if I would have. And now I can move on to treating areas I Never thought I would treat, like my legs or underarm. Thank you Point of Pride you changed my life. :’) "
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Sage's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After 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.