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Meet Ava

Ava

Ava's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Ava (she/her) is a 52-year-old transgender woman working toward permanent facial hair removal. She’s the sole provider for her household and the full-time caregiver for her wife, who is permanently disabled and recovering from multiple battles with cancer. Between frequent doctor appointments, copays, and prescriptions, their household lives paycheck to paycheck—often not quite making ends meet.

Because Ava’s facial hair is mostly grey, electrolysis is the only near-permanent solution available to her. But the cost has always been out of reach.

“Anything extra at the end of the month goes to medical bills. Insurance premiums and copays are going up again, and I don’t know how we’ll make it work. Receiving support for electrolysis gives me hope that I’ll finally be able to see myself in the mirror and feel at peace.”

Ava's timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 14, 2025

    Ava was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$2,125 towards gender-affirming care.





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Ava's 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.