Meet Samuel
Samuel's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Samuel (he/him) is an 18-year-old trans man who's biggest dream was to transition since he was 10-11 years old. Sam grew up in an incredibly violent and unsafe environment, making it impossible for him to obtain any form of support or care. He's tried everything possible to save money for gender affirming treatment (such as HRT and top surgery), however, he has found significant struggle in being able to obtain funds, especially due to having a chronic, crippling illness, along with significant mental struggles. Now that Sam has moved out of his biological parents home, he still struggles with living day-to-day with the limited amount of savings he has.
Sam finds comfort and solace in anything to do with artistic expression/freedom. His biggest hobby is drawing and animating, and heavily enjoys creating things physically out of different materials, such as sculptures or paintings. Sam is very musically inclined, and loves playing instruments (guitar, bass, piano, etc.) as well as composing pieces. His biggest hobby is video games, and has a complete passion for the way they function, whether it be visually, or just mechanics-wise.
"Receiving this HRT grant will be absolutely life changing for me. For the last 8 years, every single day, I have non-stop thought about how insanely uncomfortable my body has made me. I have feared going outside, feared looking in the mirror, and feared wearing anything but 3+ layers of baggy clothing 24/7. I am beyond ecstatic and excited to finally get 1 step closer to being happy, and feeling secure with the body I'm in."
Samuel's timeline
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Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Samuel was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$900 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Samuel get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Samuel'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.