Meet Sawyer
Sawyer's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Sawyer (he/they) is a 44-year-old genderqueer person from Florida who has been on testosterone since 2020. After being laid off from their job of over 11 years, they lost both their income and health insurance, making access to gender-affirming care nearly impossible. While friends and family have stepped in to help with housing, food, and transportation, Sawyer has struggled to cover their healthcare needs. Testosterone is especially vital for Sawyer—not only for easing dysphoria but also for managing debilitating pelvic pain caused by adenomyosis by suppressing their menstrual cycle.
Outside of these challenges, Sawyer finds joy in riding their bike and is currently training to complete a local 47-mile rails-to-trails project. They also recently earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology, with a focus on racial justice and identity development, and love traveling and playing video games.
“Starting testosterone was life changing for me,” Sawyer shared. “It made life feel normal instead of a struggle, and allowed me to finally recognize the person I see in the mirror as myself.” With restored access to care, Sawyer looks forward to living with comfort, stability, and pride.
Sawyer's timeline
Grant details
$1,480.50 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Sawyer get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Sawyer'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.