Meet Zoe
.jpg)
Zoe's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Zoe (she/her) is a 38-year-old trans woman who has dedicated herself to improving her physical and mental health while serving her country. Over the past year, she has exhausted her HSA and personal savings paying out-of-pocket for laser hair removal and other transition-related care. Unfortunately, due to recent changes in federal policy, her insurance no longer covers gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy and electrolysis.
Despite her commitment to her transition, Zoe now faces the painful reality of not being able to afford essential services to continue her journey. She started HRT a year ago and is heartbroken at the thought of losing access to something so critical. With little support from friends or family, who have distanced themselves during her transition, Zoe is navigating this alone.
Receiving help with electrolysis would be life-changing. It would offer Zoe a vital step forward and the hope she needs to continue becoming the woman she truly is.
Zoe's timeline
-
Award Granted
April 11, 2025
Zoe was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
May 6, 2025
A payment has been made toward Zoe's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,375 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Zoe get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Zoe'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.