Meet Rachael
Rachael's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Rachael (she/her) is a trans woman and disabled veteran from North Carolina. She is the sole provider for her son as well as her wife, who has had several major surgeries recently and has accumulated significant medical debt.
When Rachael came out as transgender at a previous job, she was soon after fired for “poor performance,” and then struggled for a long time to find employment. Finally, in desperation, she accepted a job that not only pays much less, but also requires she present as male. As a result, her family’s finances are extremely strained, and her dysphoria has returned. She writes, “I despise having to shave. Having one less male activity would mean the world to me. Putting on makeup and not having a face with [beard shadow] would save me so much grief.”
Rachael's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 19, 2019
Rachael was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
August 20, 2019
A payment has been made toward Rachael's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$1,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Rachael get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Rachael'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.