Meet Miles
Miles' story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Miles (he/him) is an 18-year-old trans man living in Johnson City, TN, who can’t find local providers that accept his insurance. Without a car, telehealth through Plume is his best option, but he’s unable to afford consistent care. He’s been binding for years and now experiences chest pain, bruising, and severe dysphoria—symptoms he hopes testosterone would help relieve. Living alone and with no stable income, accessing HRT feels out of reach.
Miles supports himself working part-time at a gas station while looking for additional work. Between housing instability, ongoing depression, and chronic dysphoria, the financial burden of medical visits and prescriptions is overwhelming. “I just want to get out in the world — I am surrounded by people that don’t see me as a man and I just want to feel real,” he shared.
Miles' timeline
Grant details
$1,480.50 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Miles get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Miles' care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Testosterone+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans men, trans masc, 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?
Testosterone+ introduces a wide range of masculinizing 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.