Meet Star
Star's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Star (they/them) shares, "I grew up in the 90s when we didn't have words like non-binary. I knew I wasn't a girl but I didn't know there was anything but girl or boy." Star transitioned and took testosterone for two years before they came to discover their identity as non-binary. In trying to access gender-affirming hair removal, Star's faced challenges: "I'm disabled, both physically and mentally, and I have always been poor. I second-guess myself because of my hair constantly. Hair removal will free me from so much fear, grief, and disconnect from who I know I am inside."
Star describes themself as a jack-of-all-trades artist with two lovely partners and a son. "I have severe ADHD, a slew of mental illnesses, and debilitating physical conditions. I have chronic pain, fatigue, and mobility limitations. My world is limited to what I can reach, and how much energy I have. Yet, with the help of my family and friends, I thrive."
Star's timeline
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Award Granted
July 7, 2023
Star was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$1,250 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Star get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Star'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.