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Meet Ryan

Ryan

Ryan's story

HRT Access Fund recipient

Ryan (she/they) has faced significant barriers to accessing gender-affirming care due to financial instability and gaps in insurance coverage. Ryan's work hours were drastically cut without warning, which resulted in her losing her full-time status and her health insurance.

Now, Ryan earns less than $1,200 a month from her low-income job, forcing her to live with her mother since she cannot afford to live independently. She is in the process of seeking asylum status and is paying several thousand dollars for an immigration lawyer, which leaves little room in her budget for medical expenses like HRT, dental, or vision care.

Receiving 12 months of HRT support would relieve Ryan of a huge financial burden and allow her to access the care she so desperately needs, especially after facing numerous obstacles and disappointments.

Ryan's timeline

  • Award Granted

    August 12, 2024

    Ryan was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT!

Grant details

$800 towards gender-affirming care.





About Estrogen+

On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Ryan'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.