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Meet Xay

Xay's story

HRT Access Fund recipient

Xay

Xay (he/him) is a 24-year-old trans man seeking to begin HRT and to eventually get top surgery. He has a son and a wife, and money is pretty tight between making sure bills are always paid, groceries are always in the fridge, and his son can stay enrolled in his extracurricular activities. He has been trying to begin a medical transition for about 5 years now, but every time he thought the money was there, something else came up. As a result, he has started to feel extremely discouraged. Xay shared, "I am so excited. I can't wait to show my son that happiness contributes directly to growth, and to always live your truth, while finally being able to live my own truth." He loves making jokes, nerding out to video games and anime, and he always makes sure the people he cares about are taken care of.

Xay's timeline

  • Award Granted

    September 1, 2021

    Xay was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
  • HRT Onboarding Date

    October 15, 2021

    Xay was seen by his HRT/GaHT provider.
  • Update

    May 4, 2022

    Xay shared, "I’m less nervous about being in public and way more confident. I used to be terrified to take my son to the men's bathroom. Now it’s just an everyday thing I don’t even think about. [HRT] means living my life as me. I decided to return back to school and luckily it’s a very progressive school that took my pronouns and preferred name into consideration without any problems."

Grant details

$1,450 towards gender-affirming care.





About Testosterone+

On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Xay's care.

What is it?

Testosterone+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans men, trans masc, 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?

Testosterone+ introduces a wide range of masculinizing 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.