Meet Erik
Erik's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Erik (he/him) is a trans man of color living in the South. At the time of his application, he had been homeless for over a year. Given this, as well as being uninsured, he remained unable to save money for gender-affirming surgery. Finding a place to live became his top priority, with gender-affirming care being put on a back burner.
Now that he has managed to regain some footing, Erik is searching for ways to connect and further his involvement in his community. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to family and friends.
Erik looks forward to the relief that comes with living in a body well-aligned with how he feels inside. For many years, his chest has been a source of deep insecurity. It has impacted his willingness to socialize. With an interest in fashion, he has a small collection of clothes labeled "for post-op". He looks forward to dressing for expression rather than dressing to conceal.
Erik's timeline
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Award Granted
March 6, 2025
Erik was awarded a grant toward gender affirming surgery!
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Update
June 5, 2025
Erik got surgery with Dr. Courtney Caplin! -
Update
August 12, 2025
Erik shares, "Following my gender affirming surgery, my confidence has skyrocketed. I’ve been a happier, more sociable person who doesn’t feel the need to hide. I couldn’t have possibly afforded this surgery without the help of Point of Pride. This grant was life changing and life saving.
Newly out of homelessness and still struggling financially, I am facing immense hardships day to day. This grant/surgery has been one of the only bright spots in my life, giving me both something to look forward to
and motivation to keep going further.Having this surgery meant freedom. I don’t experience the same anxiety about my appearance while out in
public. I’m much more confident during interactions with strangers, not hindered by worry that my
appearance might raise questions. I also quickly noticed how much of my wardrobe worked to hide my
body. I’m beginning to wear clothes that I never could before — clothes that fit properly. I’ll also soon begin
going to the gym, which is something I’ve always experienced far too much dysphoria to be able to do.
As I prepare to relocate for school, this surgery being complete allows me to fully begin a new chapter. I’m
able to be perceived the way I wish to be seen. I’m well on my way to being the healthiest version of
myself.
Grant details
$11,364 towards gender-affirming care.
Stream-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Erik get the care they need and deserve.
About FTM Top Surgery
On average, it costs $12,000+ for Erik's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
FTM/N top surgery is a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest contour to create a more traditionally masculine or gender-neutral appearance.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Prior to care, many trans masc people experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. One of the most common and heartbreaking experiences we hear from applicants is that they cannot give hugs to their loved ones without feeling intense distress with their chest. In addition, reliance on chest binding can cause strain over long periods of time.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
While top surgery is often categorized as a covered benefit in many insurance plans, the reality is that it's frequently denied coverage. Many people report unsuccessful attempts to appeal for coverage. In addition, finding skilled surgeons experienced in performing top surgery can be extremely challenging, particularly in states and regions most affected by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Many trans folks who undergo top surgery report massive improvements to their overall well-being and mental health, leading to increased confidence and more comfort in relationships, navigating public spaces, and more.