Meet Asia
Asia's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Asia (she/her) is a Black trans woman from South Carolina seeking breast augmentation. She had a difficult childhood in a rural environment; in an effort to support herself and save for transition-related care, Asia has worked many odd jobs since the age of 16. Asia is also a veteran who lacks inclusive healthcare coverage and is currently facing housing insecurity.
"In the Bible Belt, in South Carolina, we face many adversities," Asia shares. "I strive to be a positive influence in my community, especially for other LGBTQ+ folks."
Asia is looking forward to post-operative life and the sense of peace and confidence that access to care will provide.
Asia's timeline
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Award Granted
February 15, 2024
Asia was granted a Surgery Fund Award! -
Award Granted
April 2, 2024
Asia was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
April 4, 2024
Asia had surgery with Dr. Hope Sherie!
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Update
April 8, 2024
Asia shared, "Surgery went amazing and it was an amazing experience.. I'm recovering amazingly!"
Grant details
$10,800 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Asia get the care they need and deserve.
About MTF Top Surgery
On average, it costs $9,000+ for Asia's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
MTF top surgery is typically a breast augmentation, a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size or improving the shape of the breasts. The procedure is customized to each individual’s desired outcome.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Prior to care, many trans femme folks experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. We commonly hear from applicants that they feel “simply incomplete” without access to care, which often leads to less confidence, safety when in public, and access to life opportunities.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
Breast augmentation is often considered a cosmetic surgery and is therefore unlikely to be covered by insurance. It can also be hard for trans femme folks to find affirming surgeons in their region, especially in states and regions most impacted 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.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Asia's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.