Meet Willow
Willow's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Willow (she/her) is a trans woman living with a disability that prevents her from working full-time. Willow has struggled to secure Medicaid and disability income, and she currently has no stable income or health insurance. These financial barriers have made it difficult for her to access the gender-affirming care that is essential to her well-being.
In the past, Willow experienced the positive effects of estrogen, which brought her a sense of happiness, confidence, and alignment with her true self. "Estrogen made me happier, more confident, and gave me the chance to process my trauma and emotions," she shares. However, after being forced to stop HRT due to financial constraints and facing discrimination from previous healthcare providers, Willow has been unable to continue her transition.
Willow hopes that receiving 12 months of HRT support will help her regain the mental and emotional stability that she found while on estrogen. "I haven't felt comfortable in my own body since I went off HRT, and it would be life-changing for me to have the chance to go back on it," she says. Despite the challenges she faces, Willow remains determined to continue her journey toward self-acceptance and healing.
Willow's timeline
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Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Willow was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
Grant details
$2,200 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Willow get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Willow'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.