Meet Trevor
Trevor's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Trevor (he/him) is a 29-year-old Black trans man seeking top surgery. "I recently relocated to the US from Zimbabwe, Africa where trans health care is basically nonexistent, in search of a better quality of life," Trevor shares. Due to his status as an asylum seeker, he has struggled to find stable employment to be able to support himself and save for healthcare needs.
"Zimbabwe has no laws that legally recognize trans people; therefore, I was unable to change my name and gender marker despite being on testosterone for 7 years," Trevor says. "This made getting employment so much harder. But I managed to save and travel to the US."
While Trevor acknowledges that his life has not always been easy, he's determined to live his most authentic life and become the best possible version of himself. " I feel more optimistic than I have ever been that I could potentially have the opportunity to build a life I can be proud of and experience the feeling of being at peace with my body in this lifetime."
Trevor's timeline
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Award Granted
February 15, 2024
Trevor was granted a Surgery Fund Award!
Grant details
$11,205 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Trevor get the care they need and deserve.
About FTM Top Surgery
On average, it costs $12,000+ for Trevor's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
FTM/N top surgery is a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest contour to create a more traditionally masculine or gender-neutral appearance.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Prior to care, many trans masc people experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. One of the most common and heartbreaking experiences we hear from applicants is that they cannot give hugs to their loved ones without feeling intense distress with their chest. In addition, reliance on chest binding can cause strain over long periods of time.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
While top surgery is often categorized as a covered benefit in many insurance plans, the reality is that it's frequently denied coverage. Many people report unsuccessful attempts to appeal for coverage. In addition, finding skilled surgeons experienced in performing top surgery can be extremely challenging, particularly in states and regions most affected by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Many trans folks who undergo top surgery report massive improvements to their overall well-being and mental health, leading to increased confidence and more comfort in relationships, navigating public spaces, and more.