Meet Enzo
Enzo's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Enzo (they/he) is a 28-year-old mathematician, creative, first-generation immigrant, person of two-spirit and color. They live with serious financial challenges due to the stigma of incarceration. This does not stop Enzo from learning new trades and applying them proactively as a community leader and researcher for multiple philanthropic organizations. They know one day they will be able to live a full life post-surgery, and aims to shine in the face of adversity as a guide for transgender youth.
They are thrilled to adventure into the next chapter of their gender-affirming journey. Enzo will feel more motivated than ever to reach their palpable goals in computer science and mathematical modeling. After a warm tea, you can hear Enzo speak of his plans enthusiastically: "In five years, you will see a new international, open-source database for hate crimes and a new system of equations describing HIV-1 virotherapy. Math is cool, but being trans is even cooler. It opens doors to your mind."
Enzo is a critical thinker, language learner, rhetorician, and logistical organizer. He can be seen behind the scenes at fundraising events in multiple states, utilizing his mind and body to solve challenges as a proud advocate for their community.
Enzo's timeline
-
Award Granted
September 13, 2023
Enzo was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
October 7, 2023
Enzo was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
January 23, 2024
Enzo shared, "It honestly feels like night and day. My daily levels of stress have fallen considerably. I have more energy, resources, and time to dedicate to my job search and ability to fix pertinent dental health issues I had prior been putting off in order to afford HRT. Since receiving my grant, I have been able to remain afloat in some stability. While I do not think I could afford HRT out of pocket right now, I am confident in 2024 with this help I received I can find myself in a position where my economic situation can change for me. I have more freedom and confidence. I don't have to choose between old medicine and new medicine and that is both physically and mentally a huge deal. Since I am not bargaining for my care anymore, I can focus on more pertinent issues. The quality of my life has definitely changed for the better. HRT access in my daily life makes the difference between suicidal ideation and mental clarity. It makes a difference between a vibrant, confident being and an unmotivated depressive episode overtaking my personhood. My weekly dose is a solid reminder that I am who I say I am, and I will be the person I want to be. Daily HRT access means health, self-love, and bold steps towards a future. A future I did not see possible when living through the economic stress. HRT for my long-term goals means I can live long. It means there is space in this world for an old two-spirit. HRT will be part of my life until a doctor tells me I can't anymore. It is who I am, for as long as I am. I am finally legally transitioning with the help of a pro-bono lawyer! I am changing my name and gender in hopes to live my life as authentically as possible. This was out of reach the last few years because it just became too much to plan, but now I can focus on this goal. I got the courage to seek help and help was given to me. I could not have gotten this far without the compassion and generosity of my community, POP, and local Legal Aid. ". -
Update
April 8, 2024
Enzo shared, "I can't explain how difficult it is to navigate a trans journey as someone who struggles with employment and housing. I no longer have to worry sacrificing my health for other essential needs, and that has promoted so much inner growth. The past few months have taught me about myself and what healthy community can look like. It has given me understanding that I'm worthy of help, and most importantly knowing I am not alone.
Access to HRT daily means stability and freedom. In the short-term, access to this crucial health care means I can wake up and look in the mirror with confidence, believe in a future, and connect to a meaningful purpose. HRT in the long-term means I can live to have children, get my degree, publish a study, and get married. It means I will survive, and show up for the people who need my strength in their time of weakness. Long-term, this access grants me a full future. "
Grant details
$1,200 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Enzo get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Enzo'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.