Meet Willow
Willow's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Willow (she/her) is a 28-year-old trans woman living in an area that has made transitioning difficult. She found Plume and was finally able to begin her HRT journey in late 2021. Although her mental health and overall well-being was improved greatly, she struggled financially to make ends meet and afford HRT access.
Willow describes herself as a creative free spirit. She enjoys creating digital art, singing, makeup, drag, and tries to be a vocal advocate for the trans community (and LGBTQ+ community as a whole) whenever she can. "I can't express what access to HRT will do to make my life better. I'm lucky if I make more than $100-$200 a month as someone who is self-employed, and I wasn't able to afford HRT without sacrifices. Now I can breathe easier knowing I don't have to worry about how I'm gonna pay for my medication."
Willow's timeline
-
Award Granted
July 22, 2022
Willow was awarded a grant toward HRT/GaHT! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 8, 2022
Willow was seen by her HRT/GaHT provider. -
Update
April 14, 2023
Willow shared, "As far as my HRT, I have become so much happier with my life now. Taking my medication now and seeing the changes I've had, it's been a confidence booster and very affirming. I've never felt more like myself, and when I look in the mirror (while I still see changes I'd like to make with surgery), I love what I see a lot more than I previously did. [Access to HRT] means complete relief and not having to worry about going without my meds, so I've been able to focus on trying to get my life together. I likely wouldn't have been able to afford my meds anymore if Point of Pride didn't step in and help me out. It would have very potentially led to my downfall, but now I'm a year and half on my hormones thanks to the people who chose me to be a recipient of this life changing grant. My body is so much more feminine, everything I've wanted to change has changed (even if it's slightly) and everything I've wanted to improve has improved, despite still wanting to have things improve more. I'm so grateful for that, as well as all the mental changes that has come with HRT. Internally, as well as externally, I have never felt more like my authentic self."
Grant details
$1,700 towards gender-affirming care.
TikTok-a-Thon granteeDonate
Help us support more people like Willow get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Willow's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After 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.