Meet Keke
Keke's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Keke (she/her) is a Black Disabled Trans Woman who is seeking permanent hair removal. "I'm just hoping I can get back to a better life."
After coming out as transgender, Keke was assaulted and subsequently her mental health took a toll. While dealing with trauma, she retreated, became unemployed, and thus experienced a bout of homelessness. She faced financial hardships due to her joblessness, obstacles in finding new work due to a previous arrest, and has struggled to gain a solid footing ever since. She adds that permanent hair removal would not only be of personal benefit to her mental health, but also feels it may help her navigate spaces in which others may discriminate against her for it. "I believe access to hair removal will help achieve goals in all areas of my life: self-esteem, work, and day-to-day."
Keke's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 10, 2023
Keke was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
August 15, 2023
A payment has been made toward Keke's permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
December 20, 2023
A payment has been made toward Keke's permanent hair removal! -
Renewal Award Granted
February 1, 2024
Keke was offered a Renewal Award -
Update
February 21, 2024
Keke shared, "Although the changes are not drastic, having less facial hair has given me a bit more self confidence and hope for the future that one day all of it will be gone and I won’t have to worry about a 5 oclock shadow showing up through make up."
Grant details
$1,250 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Keke get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Keke's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.