Meet Carmen
Carmen's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Carmen (she/her) is a 22-year-old trans woman who has been trying to access affirmative HRT since she was a young girl. Because she grew up in a conservative, low income, and immigrant family from South America, she's had challenges qualifying for proper care.
Carmen is a full-time student pursuing a degree in business, and struggles to afford tuition and living expenses. She hopes to one day pursue a law degree at an Ivy League school. She shared, "As an immigrant, transgender and first-generation college woman, I am passionate about ensuring representation for the communities like mine, who often miss out on opportunities due to lack education, resources and support." In a free time she volunteers as a paralegal and non-profits, working alongside immigrant and LGBTQ+ community. She is excited for her future to "finally live my truth" and celebrated this milestone by enrolling in a ballet class, a dream of hers come true: "I am ready to see the mirror reflect the girl, the woman I know I have always been."
Carmen's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 22, 2022
Carmen was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 19, 2022
Carmen was seen by her HRT/GaHT provider.
Grant details
$1,700 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Carmen get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Carmen's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, 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?
Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing 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.