Meet T
T's story
Thrive Fund recipient
T (they/them) is a BIPOC gender non-conforming artist who has worked to navigate systemic obstacles and achieve their long-awaited surgery. Over the past five years, they saved and fundraised to cover the procedure, but a recent situation set them back emotionally and financially, leaving them short on funds to afford the caregiving they need post-op. Despite this setback, T remains determined to move forward with the surgery.
Balancing a part-time job and selling their art, T has saved every month and secured a sliding-scale caregiving service that best fits their needs. However, after years of saving, they are falling just short of their goal. Having endured loss, hardship, and moments of questioning their worth, T is on the brink of completing a journey that will allow them to finally feel at home in their body and focus on their healing.
"I’ve fought tirelessly to get here, enduring loss and deep longing that made me question my worth," T shares. "But soon I’ll be able to come back home to myself by having the post-op body that I’ve believed I’m deserving of."
This surgery is more than a medical milestone—it’s the key to unlocking a future filled with possibilities. T looks forward to focusing on their art for personal fulfillment rather than necessity, continuing to heal from past traumas, and supporting others in their gender-affirming care journeys. For T, this moment marks the culmination of years of resilience, determination, and belief in the life they know they deserve.
T's timeline
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Award Granted
November 22, 2024
T was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
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December 20, 2024
A payment has been made to T's service provider!
Grant details
$2,500 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like T get the care they need and deserve.
About Professional Caregiving Services
On average, it costs $5,000+ for T's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Professional caregiving services include support for trans individuals recovering from surgeries or managing chronic health conditions. This can involve tasks such as meal prep, personal hygiene, medication management, and emotional support.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Post-operative recovery can be challenging, especially for trans folks who lack a support system or have family members unwilling to help due to their gender identity. This lack of care can delay recovery and lead to complications.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
Professional caregiving services are rarely covered by insurance unless deemed medically necessary. Even when covered, finding affirming caregivers who understand the unique needs of trans individuals can be difficult.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Having access to affirming caregiving services can significantly improve recovery outcomes, reduce stress, and provide a sense of safety and dignity during vulnerable times.