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Meet Lyra

Lyra's story

HRT Access Fund recipient

Lyra

Lyra (she/they) is a 32-year-old trans woman. Due to various factors including familial issues and a lack of stable income, it has been difficult to access care. One of their siblings who used to live with Lyra would threaten her with physical violence for doing such things as wearing her mother's high heels, which lead to a lot of self-repression. Despite some of the hardships with her family, she helps her mother care for her disabled father and is an aspiring network engineer.

Lyra is ecstatic to begin the process to finally have a body closer to what she envisioned. "My only concern at the moment is the current political climate," she shared, "but despite, that it is a relief to finally start HRT."

Lyra's timeline

  • Award Granted

    July 22, 2022

    Lyra was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!
  • HRT Onboarding Date

    September 8, 2022

    Lyra was seen by their HRT/GaHT provider.

Grant details

$1,700 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Estrogen+

On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Lyra's care.

What is it?

Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, 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?

Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing 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.