Meet Lydia
Lydia story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Lydia (she/her) is a trans woman who has endured immense personal loss and hardship since coming out. In just a few years, she lost her marriage, her home, and her job. She’s currently navigating both an ongoing divorce and a difficult custody battle. These legal challenges, along with mounting medical bills, have left her in significant debt and have at times led to periods of homelessness.
Now working a part-time job, Lydia is misgendered multiple times each day. The emotional toll of being repeatedly invalidated, combined with broader discrimination, has deeply impacted her mental health.
Despite everything, Lydia remains committed to moving forward in her transition. She has already completed consultations for gender-affirming surgeries and sees electrolysis as the next essential step. It would not only reduce her dysphoria but also help her be perceived more accurately, restore a sense of confidence, and support her in continuing her journey.
Lydia timeline
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Award Granted
April 23, 2025
Lydia was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Lydia get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Lydia 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.