Meet Zena
Zena's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Zena (she/her) has been trying to access HRT for years without success. She sought care through Planned Parenthood in her area, but they were unable to provide the services she needed. Unfortunately, life took a difficult turn for Zena last year when she lost her job in September, followed by her partner losing his job just a few months later. The couple became homeless, and while they’ve managed to find jobs since, they are still struggling significantly, burdened with debt and barely able to cover basic needs.
For Zena, HRT is a critical lifeline. She’s reached a point where the lack of care is deeply impacting her mental health, leading to depression. Despite the hardships, she finds hope in seeing stories on platforms like TikTok, which inspire her to keep pushing forward.
For Zena, receiving HRT would provide the relief and hope she needs to finally start living as the woman she knows she is.
Zena's timeline
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Award Granted
August 12, 2024
Zena 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 Zena get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Zena'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.