Meet Shaun
Shaun's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Shaun (he/him) is a 34-year-old trans male that started transitioning four years ago. He was living in a town in deep Southeast Texas that was very red. When he reached out to the local family practice - the only doctors in town - they all refused care for a trans person. The OBGYN was unsure how to differentiate the female care from trans care, and the endocrinologist notated that she never had trans patients before and would not care to now. Shaun was able to find a Planned Parenthood, but had to travel more than 3 hours away to obtain care. Shaun has a wife and two kids, and is an avid gamer who enjoys TV nights and cuddles with his family.
Earlier this year, Shaun lost his job due to anti-trans discrimination, resulting in major financial challenges and credit card debt, on top of losing access to his health insurance. Shaun shared, “Having a way to get back on T without breaking the bank, would be life changing and get mental health care in the mean time. Cherry on top.”
Shaun's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 29, 2022
Shaun was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 8, 2022
Shaun was seen by his HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
December 18, 2022
Shaun shared, "For me, having my weekly [HRT] allows me to better groom myself. One of my daily goals was to be able to shave when I wake up. My beard is getting fuller and it makes me feel awesome! Long term, being able to not worry about my medicine has allowed me to start goal planning for my path in life. Vision boards have started and that couldn't have without the day to day depression of not having access to my medication."
Grant details
$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Shaun get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Shaun'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.