Meet Zim
Zim's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Zim (they/he) is a 21-year-old genderfluid Intersex person seeking gender-affirming HRT. They came out 10 years ago and were unable to transition due to the unsafe environment they lived in. After escaping his situation, Zim moved to his home state of Florida. Between Florida's passage of anti-trans laws and no income due to disability, he has been unable to afford HRT. This has significantly impacted his mental and physical health.
"Due to my voice dysphoria, I had given up on singing, a major passion of mine," Zim shares. "The effects of being forcibly feminized from medical abuse will be fixed with HRT. I'll finally be able to go back to vocal performance."
Zim is Autistic and a person with Complex Disabilities (meaning he has various conditions that impact different aspects of their mind and body.) They are also a Mixed Indigenous Turtle Islander and creates art inspired by his culture, queerness, and disability. Their art ranges from music, to visual arts, to jewelry and crafts.
Zim's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 13, 2023
Zim was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 28, 2023
Zim was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
January 7, 2024
Zim shared, "I feel happier and more confident. I have left my house more and began speaking more. My partner told me he noticed how much more bubbly my personality is. [Access to HRT] means fewer meltdowns, less self hatred, more confidence, and more self scceptance". -
Update
March 28, 2024
Zim shared, "Well, now I have started my own art business!
My partner said I seem more confident, I also know I have been feeling emotionally better."
Grant details
$900 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Zim get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Zim's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After 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.