Meet Brenda
Brenda's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Brenda (she/her) is a 40-year-old trans woman seeking hair removal on her face. All of her life, Brenda has had to deal with the dysphoria that having a facial hair can bring a woman. She shaves every single day and yet by the end of the day she’s already forming a five o'clock shadow, which is a source of depression for her.
Brenda is a caretaker for her ailing father who suffers from Parkinson’s as well end stage renal failure. She is also a supportive and loyal friend to her chosen family. Brenda enjoys movies, video games, and occasionally watching basketball. Her favorite pastime, however, is spending time with her friends and going to Disney World. She shares, "I'm excited to not have to deal with shaving every single day, to not have to wear heavy makeup everywhere I go."
Brenda's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 24, 2023
Brenda was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
August 29, 2023
A payment has been made toward Brenda's permanent hair removal! -
Update
October 2, 2023
Brenda shared, "My quality of life has improved immensely, I still have a ways to go before my face is fully clear but knowing that I will get there thanks to your help is life changing in the best way possible" -
Care Received
December 20, 2023
A payment has been made toward Brenda's permanent hair removal! -
Renewal Award Granted
January 25, 2024
Brenda was offered a renewal award
Grant details
$1,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Brenda get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Brenda'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.