Meet Felix
Felix's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Felix (he/him) is a visually-impaired trans man living in a state that lacks empathy and understanding (and medical care) for disabled and trans people. Living in a rural area without public transportation has made it especially hard for him to gain employment, thus making transitioning expensive and nearly unreachable. Because SSI does not allow an individual to have more than $2,000 in savings at any time, it has been nearly impossible for Felix to save towards gender-affirming care.
Felix has a bachelor's in Psychology and wishes to further his education in the future to help marginalized people fight for rights and respect in the job market through I/O psychology. On the side, he is an artist and fights to prove that disability and mental health status do not make people weak or "lesser."
Felix wants to live life the way he has felt himself meant to be. He wants to take on the world feeling confident and without the restraint and limitations a chest binder can bring. He wants to continue to be active and finally be able to swim in a public pool for the first time in a decade.
Felix's timeline
-
Award Granted
March 30, 2023
Felix was granted a Surgery Fund Award! -
Care Received
October 4, 2023
Felix successfully completed surgery with Dr. Jacobs! -
Update
April 3, 2024
Felix shared, "As a legally blind/visually impaired trans guy living in a very conservative and anti-trans state, I did not have any support financially through state Medicaid and do not have family who could help me. The help that you all at Point of Pride gave me has changed my life exponentially. I am able to now live as my authentic self. I've found far more self-confidence and better self-esteem. I have felt less anxious to go out and my ability to be more active has helped.my overall physical and mental health greatly.
I used to hide inside because putting on a binder to go anywhere was time consuming and motivation draining. I can now walk my dog without fear of heat rash or discomfort from binding. I have been able to go to the gym to work on my physical health without the worry of discomfort. I can finally go swimming again! Getting this surgery brought me closer to my ultimate goal of passing and I am already nearly there."
Grant details
$12,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Felix get the care they need and deserve.
About FTM Top Surgery
On average, it costs $12,000+ for Felix'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.