Meet Symone
Symone's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Symone (she/her) is a 25-year-old Black trans woman living in a small town in Mississippi. She shares housing with her mother, helping to pay bills. Symone works two job, working most days of the week to make ends meet.
Before her transition and early on in her journey, Symone battled severe anxiety and depression. She refers to this challenging period as her "cocoon phase," during which she faced intense fears about her future. "I terrified myself to go to Walmart. I was convinced of my demise," Symone shares. Now, Symone is grateful to live and love life without the same paralyzing fears, though hair removal and the need to constantly shave haunts her daily. "I have facial scarring from bad shaving routines," she explains.
Getting access to permanent hair removal would be a significant step in repairing both her physical appearance and emotional well-being.
Symone's timeline
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Award Granted
April 13, 2024
Symone was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Symone get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Symone'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.