Meet Milo
Milo's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Milo (he/him) is a BIPOC trans man who has faced repeated barriers in trying to access gender-affirming care. When he first sought help through his local primary care provider, his trans identity was dismissed and his dysphoria minimized. Despite being formally diagnosed, he was told that because he could still “function,” care was unnecessary. Misgendering and deadnaming by providers have only deepened the harm.
With no safe or reliable transportation to travel out of his city, Milo turned to an online gender specialist. However, because his insurance does not cover this care, he must pay out of pocket, in addition to his tuition, which is already a significant financial burden, even after considering scholarships and grants. Without support from family, Milo relies solely on his own limited income and student loans to make ends meet.
Milo shared, “Receiving 12 months of HRT support would mean everything to me. It would save my life. My mental and physical health would improve, and I would finally be able to move through the world without the constant weight of dysphoria holding me back.”
Milo's timeline
Grant details
$1,320 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Milo get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Milo's 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.