Meet Stephanie
Stephanie's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Stephanie (she/they) is a 44-year-old trans woman who has rediscovered her identity. "At age 12, I first transitioned naturally as result of a hormonal imbalance. For 2.5 years, the transition took place, then was reversed. Two years ago, I've been led to change again. I know this HRT grant will help me live my life the way it was supposed to be."
Stephanie lives with a disabled family member in a live-in caregiver capacity, providing care and medical assistance. "It is sad that I have lost so much time living as a different person, but it also gave me a life from a different perspective, giving me a broader knowledge and greater understanding I can use to better help others with."
Stephanie's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 22, 2022
Stephanie was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 9, 2022
Stephanie was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
December 26, 2022
Stephanie shared, "The changes to my quality of life so far are ones that can't be seen but have had an enormous effect. The stress and anxiety of knowing wanting and needing to start GAHT is gone - replaced by a happiness and empowerment knowing your finally on your correct path. Dealing with Plume has been amazing and heartbreaking at the same time because everything has been so smooth and easy like you knew it could and should be but never was. It made me realize how much more special this opportunity you have given me is.. I wanted thank you again for it. At the same time I feel heartbreak for those still struggling and I'm at a loss for a solution I just wish it wasn't like that. I consider it essential to my life and being even though I'm only starting to transition. It will help me achieve my long term goals but at the same time I'm aware it's basically a daily maintenance and whether part of this program or not that loosing it or discontinuing it for any reason is going to be detrimental and possibly a type of harm to me. I consider it essential to me but not sure how to always ensure it's availability for myself and others."
Grant details
$2,200 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Stephanie get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Stephanie's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, 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?
Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing 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.