Meet Theo
Theo's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Theo (he/they) is a transmasculine person from rural West Virginia facing immense barriers to accessing safe, affirming healthcare. The closest trustworthy providers are far from where he lives, and transportation is a constant challenge. His past experience with a careless doctor nearly led to the amputation of his leg after a syringe broke off during an HRT injection, a traumatic event that has made finding competent, affirming providers all the more urgent.
Currently unhoused, Theo cannot prove residency in West Virginia, which has blocked him from accessing Medicaid. As a freelance transcriptionist, he earns just $200–300 per month, most of which goes toward food, caring for his dog, covering his phone bill, and paying for his psychiatric medications. With so little left over, HRT has felt out of reach.
Theo shared, “Having HRT is incredibly important to my mental health, but if I have to choose between testosterone and my SSRI’s, my psych meds have to come first. This support would finally mean I don’t have to make that choice.”
Theo's timeline
Grant details
$1,320 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Theo get the care they need and deserve.
About Testosterone+
On average, it costs $1,200+/year for Theo'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.