Meet Calico
Calico's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Calico (he/him, xe/xem, it/its) is a 26-year-old transmasculine agender person who began their transition with top surgery in March 2021. After previously starting testosterone but having to stop due to family hardships, Calico is now ready to continue this part of his journey. With his father’s declining health and the emotional and financial stress that has followed, access to HRT had felt out of reach until now.
Calico describes himself as a polymath, with passions ranging from digital art and astronomy to animals—especially his beloved 14-year-old Snowshoe cat, who he adores and spoils. For the past two years, he has also run his own website, where he documents daily life and archives a story in both English and Japanese—an effort that took hundreds of hours but fills him with pride and purpose.
Calico shared, “Things have been rough, but this grant takes so much weight off my shoulders. Even after my father passes, I know I can experience joy and continue moving forward in my transition. Being able to feel more confident gives me a reason to smile and go at life with everything I have.”
Calico's timeline
Grant details
$1,320 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Calico get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Calico'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.