Meet Theresa
Theresa's story
Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Theresa (she/her) is a 75 year old trans woman from the Midwest seeking facial feminization surgery and permanent hair removal.
Theresa is a very low income person: what she receives from Social Security Retirement benefits goes entirely to cover her rent, utilities, groceries and existing health care expenses. Theresa shared, “I have not had a vehicle for more than six years as I could not afford repair, licensing and insurance. I live very frugally with only a hot plate and microwave for cooking and have not gone to any restaurant for more than ten years”. She shared, “since 1977, when I started on hormones, I have self paid for all of my transition-related health care.”
She shared, “although I have lived in this difficult situation for more than forty years, I have always appreciated the government assistance I’ve received from Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and attempted to repay that kindness through my employment and numerous volunteer activities. I have always sought to give back whenever possible and am always willing to help anyone in need.”
Theresa's timeline
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Award Granted
February 15, 2024
Theresa was granted a Surgery Fund Award! -
Award Granted
April 4, 2024
Theresa was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$33,410 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Theresa get the care they need and deserve.
About Facial Feminization Surgery
On average, it costs $32,000+ for Theresa's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is a series of procedures aimed at altering facial features to create a more traditionally feminine appearance. This can include procedures such as forehead contouring, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), chin and jaw contouring, lip augmentation, and various soft tissue procedures to feminize the overall facial structure. The exact procedures are customized to each individual’s desired outcome.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Trans femme folks often experience gender dysphoria related to facial features that are perceived as masculine. This can lead to discomfort, anxiety, and a sense of incongruence with one's gender identity. Importantly, for many trans women, access to FFS is a matter of safety and mitigating the chance they will be identified as trans in public and subjected to anti-trans discrimination or harassment.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
FFS is often considered a cosmetic surgery and is therefore unlikely to be covered by insurance. The price for FFS can also vary widely depending on the number and complexity of the procedures performed. It can also be hard for trans femme folks to find affirming surgeons in their region, especially in states and regions most impacted by anti-trans healthcare legislation.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
The recovery period for FFS is significant: it can take up to a year for features to fully heal. Most trans folks report greatly improved self-esteem, confidence, and sense of authenticity, which translates into greater opportunities in employment and more.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Theresa'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.