As a transgender high school student living in Texas, I have first-hand experience with the struggle that comes with facing mental health challenges while knowing I will not be able to afford crucial gender affirming care once I move out. For many transgender and intersex individuals, treatments like hormone therapy and affirming surgeries are not simply optional, cosmetic procedures. For many, medical transition plays a crucial role in aligning our bodies with our identities and lived experience, significantly relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

For me and countless others, the thought of gathering the resources for these treatments on our own can be overwhelming. This reality was devastatingly apparent when several of my closest friends attempted suicide due to their gender dysphoria. Tragically, one of these dear friends succeeded in his attempt, and is no longer with us - a sobering reminder of the potential consequence of inadequate healthcare.

This is not an isolated tragedy. In fact, over 40% of transgender individuals attempt suicide at least once in their lifetime. When you contrast this with the fact that gender-affirming surgeries have been scientifically proven to drastically reduce these rates, it becomes abundantly clear that these treatments are life-saving interventions.

The lack of coverage for gender affirming care under Texas Medicaid is failing an extremely vulnerable part of our community. It is a significant barrier that helps maintain a cycle of mental health struggles and prevents many transgender individuals from living happy and successful lives on our own terms.

I urge the Texas Health and Human Services to urgently reconsider their coverage policy. Recognize that gender affirming care is vital, evidence-based care rather than an optional luxury. Modify Texas Medicaid to provide coverage for these essential treatments.

Please join me in this fight, making life saving medical care accessible to all. Sign this petition to demand that the lives of transgender and intersex people are valued, and that necessary medical interventions are accessible for everyone, regardless of their financial status. Your signature could truly make a difference in saving lives.