Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Community Conversation => Transitioning => Gender Correction Surgery => Topic started by: HappyMoni on June 08, 2017, 09:42:48 PM

Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 08, 2017, 09:42:48 PM
   So I asked myself does Susan's need another GCS thread. Maybe not. I decided to take a poll and only one person answered. Laurie hated the idea so in accordance with that I am obligated to do this thing. I also can't think of another way to talk to a number of folks on here while I am not feeling my best near my surgery date of June 27.
   Before I start, I want to recognize  anyone who for whatever reason does not have a  major step in your transition available to them. I know it is painful and I am sorry. I have known that feeling for so long myself. I only wish positive things for someone in this situation. I hope to provide information to help someone going later than me. In the past I ended up with bad dysphoria reading posts like this, so if you get this way don't read it. Okay?
   What a difference a day makes. Yesterday, I had to redo my labs because my white cell count was high. For a week I sweated this out while I got off Progesterone.  It is terrifying. On one hand it could mean I am sick (thoughts of cancer maybe) and not getting surgery, on the other hand, I could be okay and getting my surgery. Dr. McGinn's office has been so responsive and this morning I got the answer I wanted... no, needed, to hear. I still have a voice in me that won't believe it will happen until I wake up from the event.
   I will try to focus on information about the process and maybe the emotions, anything that might be useful. I may not write unless I have something like that. Questions are welcome.
   Love to all,
   Moni 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Cindy on June 08, 2017, 09:55:56 PM
Moni,

Susan's hosts threads that support people. You need support through this exciting time,
and yes some people will be sad that they cannot get to the point of GCS for whatever reasons. However you have reached this point and you need and deserve support.

Now stop worrying, you have plenty of time for that in coming weeks ;D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 08, 2017, 09:58:32 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 08, 2017, 09:42:48 PM
   So I asked myself does Susan's need another GCS thread. Maybe not. I decided to take a poll and only one person answered. Laurie hated the idea so in accordance with that I am obligated to do this thing.

   What a difference a day makes. Yesterday, I had to redo my labs because my white cell count was high. For a week I sweated this out while I got off Progesterone.  It is terrifying. On one hand it could mean I am sick (thoughts of cancer maybe) and not getting surgery, on the other hand, I could be okay and getting my surgery. Dr. McGinn's office has been so responsive and this morning I got the answer I wanted... no, needed, to hear. I still have a voice in me that won't believe it will happen until I wake up from the event.
   Moni

  I knew it, I always get overruled. You asked and I told you not to do it and yet here it is .. another thread on GCS... *SIGH*  And you do it to spite me yet! That is soooo like you.

  I'm going to read between the lines here and guess the white cell count came down and your worst fears were unfounded? Well I told you so. Didn't I? I always knew you were letting your imagination go into overdrive and were fearing the worst. That's just like you. Always thinking the worst about everything and everyone. I mean just look at what you said about me.. Well I'm not like that at all. To show you I'm going to tell you I am happy for you that the labs were nothing to worry so much about and happy your doctor has given the go ahead for your surgery. That is outstanding news. I bet you scheduled the surgery for when I'll likely be in the area in order to avoid me. Didn't you?

  I suppose I can put up with one more mundane surgery thread.  *sigh* If I have to.

Congrats Monico moniker ugh monorail arrg Moni! Yeah that's it Moni.

Hugs,
   Laurie

 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 08, 2017, 10:11:23 PM
Quote from: Laurie on June 08, 2017, 09:58:32 PM
  I knew it, I always get overruled. You asked and I told you not to do it and yet here it is .. another thread on GCS... *SIGH*  And you do it to spite me yet! That is soooo like you.

  I'm going to read between the lines here and guess the white cell count came down and your worst fears were unfounded? Well I told you so. Didn't I? I always knew you were letting your imagination go into overdrive and were fearing the worst. That's just like you. Always thinking the worst about everything and everyone. I mean just look at what you said about me.. Well I'm not like that at all. To show you I'm going to tell you I am happy for you that the labs were nothing to worry so much about and happy your doctor has given the go ahead for your surgery. That is outstanding news. I bet you scheduled the surgery for when I'll likely be in the area in order to avoid me. Didn't you?

  I suppose I can put up with one more mundane surgery thread.  *sigh* If I have to.

Congrats Monico moniker ugh monorail arrg Moni! Yeah that's it Moni.

Hugs,
   Laurie


Cindy, with support like this, do I really have to get support? Please don't make me, please!
Moni (Mon nee, ugh!)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 08, 2017, 10:18:49 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 08, 2017, 10:11:23 PM
Cindy, with support like this, do I really have to get support? Please don't make me, please!
Moni (Mon nee, ugh!)

HEY !!
   
  I was being nice Miss Moni.  Just see if I do that again.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 09, 2017, 07:36:23 AM
Dang Moni, I was wondering when you'd start this thread, I almost started one for you thinking maybe you'd forgotten ;-)

So hugs and of course I want a chance to kibitz. I'm so excited for you and I want to hear everything. Obviously, so glad your wbc is back to acceptance ranges (I had a low hematocrit # going in which my endocrinologist attributed to estrogen hrt ... i suspect it was being run down from an insane schedule).

Questions ...

Who's helping you after the surgery and what's your plan for recovery?

How are you doing emotionally?

Hugs and best wishes, I'm really glad for you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on June 09, 2017, 08:01:10 AM
Now Moni (as in Bonnie)

Stay cool, I promise "we" will try and keep Laurie(as in storrry) as far away from you as possible but you know what she is like...

Big sigh of relief with the bloods...See all will be well

Your GCS date has now been added to my official "Whiteboard of Significant dates" ranks right up along side some of the all time greats like "Hair Implant Date......round of applause please ... c'mon ladies no pushing....there will be photo opportunities later..

On a far more grave and serious note...I really wish you all the joy in the world. I will be thinking of you and eagerly waiting to hear of your success .

Liz

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on June 09, 2017, 10:37:54 AM
After being off the list for years I've been back since the first of the year because I needed to FINALLY research a surgeon.  I cant think of a single GCS thread where I didn't learn something and I've been out for years.

Please do give us all the details Moni. :)  I'm having surgery on 8/11 at NYU and I will certainly be posting my own details. . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rayna on June 09, 2017, 04:44:55 PM
Moni,

Elective surgery is one of those things where we sympathize, wish for the best, but also embrace the pain as the necessary step to a better future.

Or maybe it's not really "elective" is it? Yes, this needs to be done and you will do it well! Anybody who gives Laurie this much grief is strong.

All the best.
Love Randy

Sent from my Victor 9000 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SailorMars1994 on June 09, 2017, 04:51:55 PM
That is awesome girl!! i am so happy you are getting to be complete with who you were meant to be. You really are one of the sweets hearts i have ever met and have been there for me more then i could count on. Now, get that surgery i wish i could have but probably never will xD

love ya boo-Ashley
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 09, 2017, 09:10:14 PM
I am so thankful for anyone who posts on here. If I don't mention everyone, it isn't because I don't value your post, I just have so many brain cells left and my favorite typing finger is sore.

Sadie,
I will have a lot of support. My partner, Ann. My brother and sister in law also. They are wonderful. Recovery plan is 3 days in hospital, Tues through Friday. If all okay, two visits to Papillon the next week, leaving that second Friday. I am so lucky to have changed jobs in 2010 and I work for the school system now. This means I can recover until late August without missing work.
My frame of mind was massive stress worrying about getting to surgery. Now that all seems a go, I am so much calmer. I don't have any doubts about surgery. My physical dysphoria is pretty bad which is an asset when it comes to being sure about surgery. I want to take this time and savor it. I am all smiles right now.
Liz
You got my name right!! Three cheers! Thank you and don't worry about Laurie, she thinks I'm crazy and when this is all done, she might be right. Clapping for hair implants.
Gail
Hi, is that with Bluebond Langner? I hope this is helpful to someone. Good luck, Girl.
Randy
Hi! No, it isn't elective surgery for me. When it gets bad enough you want to bang your head against the wall in frustration, it is not an elective thing. Hope you are doing well, my friend.
Ashley
Don't count it out for you, Girl. You are such a kind soul, you are a pleasure to talk to. Thanks for being there for me.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 09, 2017, 09:21:07 PM
 Did you see that? Huh? Huh? Did you see how she left me out? and I've been ever so supportive of her too.

Moni as in Tony
Moni as in toni
Moni as in pony
Moni as on connie
Moni as in baloney
Moni as in bony

So there take that! Leave me out will ya?
I'ma gunna hunt you down lady and teach you how to pronounce you name once and for all.
Mark my words Miss Monica! See if I don't.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 09, 2017, 09:34:02 PM
I just talked to you on the phone you goofball! You know I love you even with that namelexia of yours. You even said my name correctly on the phone. Yeah you come find me, I'll show you.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 09, 2017, 09:58:16 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 09, 2017, 09:34:02 PM
I just talked to you on the phone you goofball! You know I love you even with that namelexia of yours. You even said my name correctly on the phone. Yeah you come find me, I'll show you.
Moni

  Just who do you think you are calling a goofball?
I did not! And even if I did it was an accident! Love ya too Monica but I'll deny it if asked.

Now you just stop this nonsense. This is your surgery thread and you are derailing it. Get back on track.

Hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rayna on June 09, 2017, 10:17:50 PM
Quote from: Laurie on June 09, 2017, 09:58:16 PM
Now you just stop this nonsense. This is your surgery thread and you are derailing it. Get back on track.
Ha, what better topic to derail than thinking about surgery?  Gives me the shivers.  You are strong!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 09, 2017, 10:28:05 PM
I have nothing to share other than I am watching and sending postive energy and prayers to you. These are heady important times for you. A true paradigm shift is coming. I'm watching in awe and hope for my day soon. If there's anything I can do to help, Hon....let me know. PM if you want to or need to. Our spirits are your guardian angels and we're all watching you and hoping you have the smoothest time with the most wonderful outcome. I'm sure it will be so. Cuz'od things happen to good people...... It's just the way it goes. Your're time is here, girl. All the work and worry and preparation are through.  It's gonna happen and it's all going to be wonderful!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 10, 2017, 09:54:23 AM
Quote from: jentay1367 on June 09, 2017, 10:28:05 PM
I have nothing to share other than I am watching and sending postive energy and prayers to you. These are heady important times for you. A true paradigm shift is coming. I'm watching in awe and hope for my day soon. If there's anything I can do to help, Hon....let me know. PM if you want to or need to. Our spirits are your guardian angels and we're all watching you and hoping you have the smoothest time with the most wonderful outcome. I'm sure it will be so. Cuz'od things happen to good people...... It's just the way it goes. Your're time is here, girl. All the work and worry and preparation are through.  It's gonna happen and it's all going to be wonderful!!!!!!!!

Thank you ladies you are awesome! (yes that includes you Laurie, dog gone it!)

I think you are right about the paradigm changing, just knowing it will happen has made me feel happier, more feminine. It feels a bit like standing on the beach and the water is going out way further than it ever does. I expect that big wave will be along at some point here. But that is okay. It is an adventure. That is the only way to look at it. What sense does it make to dread  something I have wanted forever. It occurs to me Randy, maybe I am not strong but too dumb to be scared. lol

Yes back on track, you are right! I have a question for the collective trans brain trust out there. That is a horrible name, how about the Trans Borg? That should also please any Trekies out there. (Trekers?)  Okay Trans Borg, after one is out of the hospital and into a recovery place, are compression stocking used to minimize blood clot risk? If so, do I need to arrange to buy them myself ahead of time? Is it something the hospital takes care of. Are there sizes to be aware of? I know in hospital they have the pressure cuffs on, but what about after? Thanks in advance, Trans Borg.
Monica
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on June 10, 2017, 10:37:07 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 09, 2017, 09:10:14 PM

Gail
Hi, is that with Bluebond Langner? I hope this is helpful to someone. Good luck, Girl.
Moni

Thanks! Yes it is. If she's just half as good as her bedside manner I'll be in great shape. And good luck to you too. I enjoy your posts!  :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 10, 2017, 10:55:26 AM
Moni, I don't think there's a need for the pressure cuffs after the first 3 days unless you know you're at particular risk of throwing blood clots. Certainly they're going to be expensive to buy or rent. When I didn't want to be walking i just made sure to keep flexing my leg muscles which is all that's needed to help keep flow going.

My post op support is all falling on my GF and she's been amazing. I think it's hit her hard how much I've been affected and she really rose to that challenge. I do wish I had some family i could count on for help bit the only family that are supportive are a long ways off. Also good if your partner can be there for the whole time. She may not be able to help much practically during the hospital stay but I can sure say getting there and doing those first 3 days solo was a bit lonely.

And so glad your head is in a good and positive place, I know for my part from the time I decided for sure I was proceeding in January right up to the day of I didn't have any serious doubts. The only moment of difficulty was as they were putting me under, the real point of no return and that was the moment my surgeon was there holding my hand which turned a lonely moment of fear into a moment of support and acceptance.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on June 10, 2017, 10:56:49 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 10, 2017, 09:54:23 AM
Yes back on track, you are right! I have a question for the collective trans brain trust out there. That is a horrible name, how about the Trans Borg? That should also please any Trekies out there. (Trekers?)  Okay Trans Borg, after one is out of the hospital and into a recovery place, are compression stocking used to minimize blood clot risk? If so, do I need to arrange to buy them myself ahead of time? Is it something the hospital takes care of. Are there sizes to be aware of? I know in hospital they have the pressure cuffs on, but what about after? Thanks in advance, Trans Borg.
Monica
Clots are not an issue as long as you are moving around and are of a reasonable weight. They will have you back on your feet two days after surgery and they will take off all the clot care items at that point. You should be doing regular laps around the hospital to prevent clots and to build up your strength. After you are out of the hospital, continue to follow your doctors recommendation on movement. Both to little and to much movement early on can be harmful.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 10, 2017, 12:25:48 PM
My last visit to the hospital, they had the cuffs on and that was just over night. With my age I am concerned. My doctor joked to walk out of the operating room if I can. I will follow directions of my surgeon but I will want to be up ASAP. I wouldn't buy the cuffs but I thought they might want the compression for the legs. I like the idea of the flexing Sadie. I hope to use my head and not go over board on anything. Except dilation that is, if you are listening Doctor McGinn. LOL
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on June 10, 2017, 01:06:47 PM
My understanding is that the pressure cuffs are there for increased risk of clotting immediately post-surgery as the body responds to the surgery 'tissue damage' and the medications that may have been pumped into you.

Once you are up and moving around to the point where your doctors are happy, and some of the surgery meds have been flushed out, the cuffs won't be needed.

After surgery for a bladder outlet obstruction I switched to just compression hose (Fytto, Futuro, or the more expensive Jobst) pretty much 24/7 during recovery to improve lower leg circulation.  I still wear these constantly except when sleeping to avoid problems with very early signs of vascular insufficiency in my legs.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 10, 2017, 05:23:58 PM
Hi Monica, congratulations. You are in good hands.

The pressure cuffs are on for two days and they get you up and standing on Wednesday and walking on Thursday.

My WBC was high for my labs for GCS 1200 I believe and still was allowed surgery. I was 800 on my WBC post op 6 weeks.



Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on June 11, 2017, 07:36:47 PM
Hi Moni (as in good friend),

Great news with finally getting past all of the testing and now just waiting for your dreams to be fulfilled! Please journal your experiences fully, I need your stories to help me through the next 151 days (but who is counting) until my surgery.

Best of luck and our prayers are with you girl.

Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 12, 2017, 12:24:36 AM
Yeah yeah yeah

I'm going to hunt you down...

Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on June 12, 2017, 02:08:48 AM
Hey Moni

How exciting...your time draws near

I think you will be just fine...getting moving is the best thing for healing...you are in capable hands with plenty of experienced people around to help

Hugs
Liz


Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on June 12, 2017, 06:47:40 AM
Hey Moni, I found your thread!
Wishing you well and sending positive thoughts.
I am sure you'll be fine, and I concur about being too daft to worry, rather than very brave  ;)
Take care hon x
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Johanna M on June 12, 2017, 08:59:41 AM
Hi Moni. So happy for you. Pray and hope that everything runs smoothly.
Hugs
Johanna

Skickat från min LG-H815 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 12, 2017, 01:01:49 PM
Quote from: ElizabethK on June 12, 2017, 02:08:48 AM
Hey Moni

How exciting...your time draws near

I think you will be just fine...getting moving is the best thing for healing...you are in capable hands with plenty of experienced people around to help

Hugs
Liz

I'll get her moving Liz. Hunting season opens in just over 2 weeks and she''ll be scurrying around trying to hide.

Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 12, 2017, 05:03:14 PM
Thank youall for posting with wonderful thoughts, making me feel so good. V you do know me, I am more than a little daft. I am finishing up my job in the next two days and then my attention turns to getting ready for the adventure. I wasn't expecting to have to need a bullet  proof vest with the female Elmer Fudd showing up at my bed looking  for 'varmints.' 
I will try to keep on point here, even if just a little. I have a question for the 'Trans Borg" who might be familiar with Dr. McGinn (Rachel, maybe?)  I am not sure if I need to jump on ordering dilators now, or does she have at least the first dilator or two? I also would like to know where to order what type she wants.
I received a statement from insurance today stating that my surgeon would be considered in network. I had previously been okayed for out of network. I want to thank Terri (Maybebabby) for making me aware of applying for the exemption due to no surgeons doing GCS in my area. It will definitely  help financially.
I am ready to get on with things of course, but I am calm, excited, and willing. As I moved around quite a bit this weekend, it hit me that it will soon take a long time to get back to such things, like walking, moving, stuff like that. I got no complaints though.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on June 12, 2017, 05:16:27 PM
Hi Sweetie,

IIRC, Dr. McGinn said they supply the first two, and you get the other two from soul source. Just call the office tomorrow and ask.

~Terri (Maybebaby)

P.S. If you're nice to me - and spell it correctly - I'll even tell you how I came up with my screen name.  Hint: Buddy Holly.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 12, 2017, 08:20:25 PM
Quote from: Maybebaby56 on June 12, 2017, 05:16:27 PM
Hi Sweetie,

IIRC, Dr. McGinn said they supply the first two, and you get the other two from soul source. Just call the office tomorrow and ask.

~Terri (Maybebaby)

P.S. If you're nice to me - and spell it correctly - I'll even tell you how I came up with my screen name.  Hint: Buddy Holly.
Terri,
I'm always nice to you Hon. Got to say Maybebaby is better than "Moms Mabley Baby." Remember her?  Do tell! Your name origin?

Do you have an address, have you sent for yours yet?

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 12, 2017, 09:39:09 PM
Quote from: Maybebaby56 on June 12, 2017, 05:16:27 PM
P.S. If you're nice to me - and spell it correctly - I'll even tell you how I came up with my screen name.  Hint: Buddy Holly.

Well you are the one that, makes me glad

It didn't come out until 1957 So I'm guessing 56 means something else.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on June 13, 2017, 12:30:11 PM
Quote from: Maybebaby56 on June 12, 2017, 05:16:27 PM
P.S. If you're nice to me - and spell it correctly - I'll even tell you how I came up with my screen name.  Hint: Buddy Holly.

February 3, 1959 . . .  the day the music died . . . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on June 13, 2017, 04:48:09 PM
Laurie guessed it, lol.

Well before I decided to transition, I used to cross dress.  One evening I had done a particularly good job, and I was entranced by what (who?) I saw in the mirror.

I wanted so much to be that girl in the mirror. The song  "Maybe Baby" came into my head. It sort of fit, in a way.

Maybe baby, I'll have you
Maybe baby, you'll be true
Maybe baby, I'll have you for me (all for me)

It's funny honey, you don't care
You never listen, to my prayer
Maybe baby, you will love me some day (someday)

Well, you are the one that makes me glad
And you are the one that makes me sad
When some day, you'll want me
Well, I'll be there, wait and see


A few months later, I was growing convinced I was transgender, and I decided to at least attempt to transition.  That was around January 2014, and I was 56 years old.

Maybebaby56 was born.

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on June 13, 2017, 04:52:50 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 12, 2017, 08:20:25 PM
Terri,
I'm always nice to you Hon. Got to say Maybebaby is better "Moms Mabley Baby." Remember her?  Do tell! Your name origin?

Do you have an address, have you sent for yours yet?

Moni

Yes you are, sweetie. You are so cute! I love you to pieces.

See: https://soul-source-sd.myshopify.com/collections/grs-vaginal-dilators.

I have not ordered the dilators because my SRS date is still lightyears away, or at least it feels like it.

With kindness,

Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 13, 2017, 05:39:10 PM
Quote from: Maybebaby56 on June 13, 2017, 04:48:09 PM
Laurie guessed it, lol.

Well before I decided to transition, I used to cross dress.  One evening I had done a particularly good job, and I was entranced by what (who?) I saw in the mirror.

I wanted so much to be that girl in the mirror. The song  "Maybe Baby" came into my head. It sort of fit, in a way.

Maybe baby, I'll have you
Maybe baby, you'll be true
Maybe baby, I'll have you for me (all for me)

It's funny honey, you don't care
You never listen, to my prayer
Maybe baby, you will love me some day (someday)

Well, you are the one that makes me glad
And you are the one that makes me sad
When some day, you'll want me
Well, I'll be there, wait and see


A few months later, I was growing convinced I was transgender, and I decided to at least attempt to transition.  That was around January 2014, and I was 56 years old.

Maybebaby56 was born.

~Terri
I'll never hear that song again without thinking of you with a smile on my face.

Thanks for the dilator address. I'll text them and ask if I need to order them now. I know I am weird but I don't like calling Papillon. I have this fear they will say something like, "So while I have you on the phone, we have all contracted malaria and your surgery is canceled." Isn't it silly how scared I am of getting there and not scared of the surgery? You should handle all the before stuff and I'll handle the surgery part. Well...maybe not.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 13, 2017, 06:55:33 PM
Papillion provides the #1 and #2 dilators. When you purchase the #3 and #4 from Soul Source make sure you get the curved front and not straight.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 14, 2017, 09:23:29 PM
Thanks Rachel.

Today was my last day of working at my job until fall. As I went around the halls, everyone seemed very happy, excited. Then I saw a coworker who had obviously been crying. I soon found out that she had lost her son to a very unpleasant incident this week. She had to make the final medical decision. Oh my gosh, it really put things into perspective. Even going through such a nightmare, she came to say goodbye to the kids at the school where we work. It brought home to me how fortunate I am. I am thankful, very thankful.

I discussed my placement for next year at the school with my boss today. I said that when I returned, I will have to do 'maintenance' during my lunch period. I talked about going to my car to do this. To my surprise, she said something about them having a responsibility to make accommodations for the medical needs of staff members. She gave examples of breast feeding and insulin shots. She then took me to a room that I didn't know existed. It had a bathroom in the room and it had  a place for a cot. I was amazed as it would be perfect for dilating. She said I would have the only key. I wish every state had rules to protect those who have a situation that needs a small modification like this.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 14, 2017, 09:37:14 PM
Sometimes, we get the luck we make. You're so sweet, nice and helpful that I suspect those that know you would be anxious to assist you and help where they can.  You generally get back what you give. Bet you're excited.  I'm sure excited for you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 14, 2017, 10:20:44 PM
Don't you start trying to make me cry you! Thanks for those very kind words. I start thinking about it on my way to work each morning and find myself stretching out my muscles at the same place each day from being so excited. Is that silly?
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 14, 2017, 11:03:43 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 14, 2017, 10:20:44 PM
Don't you start trying to make me cry you! Thanks for those very kind words. I start thinking about it on my way to work each morning and find myself stretching out my muscles at the same place each day from being so excited. Is that silly?
Moni

Not silly, Hon.  This is your time...revel in it and own it. I sure as hell would.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 16, 2017, 07:59:24 PM
Hi Monica, Make sure to get a case of Surgi Lube off of Amazon and a case of paper towels. Papillion specifies Surgi Lube. You will be dilating 5 times a day and using #1 to start, 30 minutes. As you progress from 1 to 2 then 3 and lastly 4 you will use all 4 dilators for 7 or 8 minutes each. If you are using 3 dilators then 10 minutes per dilator. Two dilators is 15 minutes each. Dilator time starts when you are at your mark and pushing (ask Dr. McGinn to demonstrate how hard to push). At my 3 month visit I was told I could go to 3 dilations daily. At my 6th month visit I was told I can dilate 1/day and just use #1 for 5 minutes and #4 for 25 minutes.

Make sure you get a mirror. I chose one that had no magnification on one side and 3 times magnification on the other side. I use a surefire flashlight and mirror when I do inspection and cleanup. 

As the schedule and healing changed sometimes dilations were painful. If that happens make sure to use enough lube, insert with gradual increased pressure and slightly rotate the dilator back and forth.

When I restarted exercise and steps and training and walking I had some swelling and dilation brought tears. Remember to be kind to yourself and take a deep breath, you will get through it. Sometimes dilation took an hour. Ease back into the swing of things and d not get tempted to do too much.

Bring pads, ones that will soak up a lot of moisture.

When you get the packing out it feels wonderful. When they take the catheter out it hurts a little. Drains ( I had 4) removal had a slight burn when removed.

The first 3 months 5 dilations take over 2.5 hours a day plus clean up and pre-cleaning. When you go to 3 times a day is such a relief. Then 1/d is fantastic.

I make a protein bar. Peanut butter ( 10 tablespoons), spirolina (2 very small scoops), collagen (6 scoops), Milo x 2 scoops, protein powder 2 scoops, cacao 2 scoops and hemp 2 scoops.  I try to eat salad 3 times a day, 2 cups with cruciferous vegies. I use some form of stool softener and I drink a lot of water. Post op you need nutrition so eat. You may gain a few pounds but eat. Make sure you get D3 and a multi and fish oil.

I had to do dry packing to remove necro tissue ( I had to use cheeses cloth consistency bandages to put in my vagina. Also I had to use hydrocortisone (still do but by prescription). I have some scarring and the hydrocortisone helps stretch the scarring and softens it. Papillion prescribed it. If need be they will prescribe E for my vagina. My graph was small and I had a rough 2 weeks post op. You will fair much better, I am sure.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on June 16, 2017, 08:25:51 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on June 16, 2017, 07:59:24 PM
The first 3 months 5 dilations take over 2.5 hours a day plus clean up and pre-cleaning.

This is what freaks me out.  How did you work with that dilation schedule?  I have to be back at work after six weeks, and I was lucky to negotiate that.  I have four weeks of sick leave, and arranged two weeks of telework.  Were you able to drive six weeks post-op?  I have a 30-35 minute commute each way. That worries me, too.

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 16, 2017, 08:53:56 PM
I wanted to go back to work at week three end after  Dr. McGinn released me and gave me a return to work authorization. Work was dragging their feet ( my boss told me not to come back and that HR wanted to find me a place to dilate) so I just went back and gave employee health my authorization. That was at 3 weeks 6 days. Driving was ok. I drive 45 minutes to and 1.5 hours back from work. I work 10 hours a day. If I did not do this I would have been out at least 2 more weeks. I was clear for 8 weeks without a letter for additional time.

I dilated in my office 2 times a day. Once when I woke up, once when I came home from work and once at bed time.

This may sound odd but I look back with fond memory, I cherish it. Not the pain or other issues but there were so many things I learned about myself and others and how I am perceived and supported or lack their of (even that is a learning experience).
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 16, 2017, 10:40:36 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on June 16, 2017, 07:59:24 PM
Hi Monica, Make sure to get a case of Surgi Lube off of Amazon and a case of paper towels. Papillion specifies Surgi Lube. You will be dilating 5 times a day and using #1 to start, 30 minutes. As you progress from 1 to 2 then 3 and lastly 4 you will use all 4 dilators for 7 or 8 minutes each. If you are using 3 dilators then 10 minutes per dilator. Two dilators is 15 minutes each. Dilator time starts when you are at your mark and pushing (ask Dr. McGinn to demonstrate how hard to push). At my 3 month visit I was told I could go to 3 dilations daily. At my 6th month visit I was told I can dilate 1/day and just use #1 for 5 minutes and #4 for 25 minutes.

Make sure you get a mirror. I chose one that had no magnification on one side and 3 times magnification on the other side. I use a surefire flashlight and mirror when I do inspection and cleanup. 

As the schedule and healing changed sometimes dilations were painful. If that happens make sure to use enough lube, insert with gradual increased pressure and slightly rotate the dilator back and forth.

When I restarted exercise and steps and training and walking I had some swelling and dilation brought tears. Remember to be kind to yourself and take a deep breath, you will get through it. Sometimes dilation took an hour. Ease back into the swing of things and d not get tempted to do too much.

Bring pads, ones that will soak up a lot of moisture.

When you get the packing out it feels wonderful. When they take the catheter out it hurts a little. Drains ( I had 4) removal had a slight burn when removed.

The first 3 months 5 dilations take over 2.5 hours a day plus clean up and pre-cleaning. When you go to 3 times a day is such a relief. Then 1/d is fantastic.

I make a protein bar. Peanut butter ( 10 tablespoons), spirolina (2 very small scoops), collagen (6 scoops), Milo x 2 scoops, protein powder 2 scoops, cacao 2 scoops and hemp 2 scoops.  I try to eat salad 3 times a day, 2 cups with cruciferous vegies. I use some form of stool softener and I drink a lot of water. Post op you need nutrition so eat. You may gain a few pounds but eat. Make sure you get D3 and a multi and fish oil.

I had to do dry packing to remove necro tissue ( I had to use cheeses cloth consistency bandages to put in my vagina. Also I had to use hydrocortisone (still do but by prescription). I have some scarring and the hydrocortisone helps stretch the scarring and softens it. Papillion prescribed it. If need be they will prescribe E for my vagina. My graph was small and I had a rough 2 weeks post op. You will fair much better, I am sure.

Rachel,
   Thank you for this invaluable information. I was going to ask about ideas for protein intake. I am used to eating a lot of chicken for protein but that may not be practical at this time. I love raw veggies and fruit, but can't stand the veggies cooked. Carbs I get, are discouraged. All ideas welcome. I don't know that almonds are advisable with bathroom issues a factor.
   I had a pleasant surprise the last day at work. One of the bosses offered a room with a bathroom attached. I would have the only key and I could set up a cot or lounge chair for dilation. Not sure which would be better. It saves me from going out to my car and doing it with the AC running.
   I investigated getting some FFS problems fixed today. I had a consult with a local surgeon, and I think I will probably get my eye repaired. Can't believe I am thinking of doing more than one surgery before the end of the year. I may have another repair in mind as well. It will depend on how well I bounce back from GCS. It would  probably be   at the end of the year though. It would be great to not have to look at this mess on my face anymore.
   I will order the lube tonight. They told me any water based mineral oil when I emailed them, but I will go with your suggestion. Thanks again. This 'before' time is flying by and I have so much to do.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on June 16, 2017, 10:49:56 PM
When you dilate, your rear and legs need to be flat. Bending at the waist gives you the reach to get your hand around the far end of the dilator. If you use  a cot, you will need to place it against a wall and stack some pillows against the wall to support your back. A lounge chair might work if you can get everything flat enough.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 16, 2017, 10:52:34 PM
Did you get the pack of 12 Rachel? Or is a case bigger than that. I expect it goes quickly.

Thanks Dena!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 16, 2017, 11:23:24 PM
Just a shot in the dark here but it is worth a try. Anyone having surgery with Dr. McGinn the end of June and into July? Stayin at the Gaia House? Anyone?
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 17, 2017, 03:54:54 AM
On lube Moni, it's YMMV. I started with KY which while not my first choice was available at CVS and is cheap.

I bought one 4oz tube to fly with and had my gf pickup 2 more when she arrived and I only just finished those 3 tubes. That's for 3 dilations per day using sizes 1 and 2 nearly every time (my very first dilation, of course was at Wittenberg's office and they used surgilube).

For position the first time they had me in a gyno exam chair my feet were in the normal stirrups, thighs flexed about 45 degrees wrt torso. For the first few times I emulated that in bed, using a pillow to rest my feet at the desired angle.

Because some of the skin at the full depth of the PI inversion wasn't adhered to the vaginal walls, she had me dilate the first week for 30 minutes at a time instead of their usual choice of 10'. I found it hard to keep legs kicked up for that long, I took to a close to flat/supine position with my hips turned slightly and legs slightly akimbo. While I had my gf there, I had her help put a pillow under my knees. I found and still find completely flat / supine uncomfortable, due to the fairly strong bend in the dilator tip. Of course YMMV, use the position that you find works best. If I had a private room at work I know I'd outfit it with a cot but the right reclining chair could work also.

About amount of lube, whatever lube I use (now switched to surgilube) I don't use a lot. I based my guess of how much on lots of experience with sexual penetration vaginal & anal and with penis, toys and hand/fisting. Of course I'm familiar with the idea that "too much lube is not quite enough".

So my approach with this has been "the right amount, not too much" my reason was that I didn't want to be cleaning excess lube or introducing more of the stuff than was necessary because I didn't imagine it would be helping with healing, nor would excessive rinsing to remove excess lube. Ok so call me a minimalist, and I'm also quite cheap, dinna faish spending more pennies on KY than necessary.

So what was enough for me was to lay down a line of lube maybe 3/4" long at the diameter that it came out of the tube at most and use a finger to spread that evenly over the full length of the dilator, somewhat less on the second one as I knew the channel was already lubed. My experience was that lube was really only needed for getting past the labia and the vaginal canal itself was plenty well lubricated by discharge/exudate. That's what I did for my very first dilation, supervised by the doc herself.

For the first couple of weeks I used a nitrile glove on the hand spreading the lube (happily I get those free from work). Once I got back home, thw vaginal canal was clearly mostly healed and I switched to simply washing my hands first.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 17, 2017, 07:00:03 AM
Thanks Sadie, I expect to be dilating the rest of my life, so I doubt anything I get will be put to use. Can't imagine it going bad. I just put chocks on my list, thanks for the mention. I am off for one last electrolysis session. My face and an area on my butt. I am hoping she can tell the difference.
Moni
Still not stressing about the surgery. Maybe I am as nutty as Laurie says I am. Does the phrase "Lamb being led to slaughter " seem appropriate here? Well my hairless dog will be dying, no doubt. lol
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 17, 2017, 08:38:14 AM
Ahh good point and I do tend to forget that not everyone is quite as skint as I  :-).

(Nerd alert)
And the tubes I just received have an expiration of the end of 2019, at the rate I use it a 12 tube box would cover my first 9 months of dilations :-).
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 17, 2017, 09:48:25 AM
Yes, a box of 12. After the box of 12 of Surgilube I switched to McKesson which is cheaper. I wanted to use what was in the Papillion pamphlet at least during the initial healing phase.  I always buy a case at a time to reduce cost and have it on hand (LOL). I have Amazon Prime and use it :)

If you feel well in New Hope I can recommend a bunch of places to eat and a pool ( you can lounge and eat while your SO can drink and swim) that are all very LGBT friendly and LGBT owned. You will be on bed rest and really should just rest and relax. However, your SO may enjoy getting out.

I have a BA 7/17/17 with Dr. McGinn. When I saw her for my 6th month checkup I said I had FFS with Dr. Spiegel September 2016 and I most likely will be seeing Dr. Spiegel this September for a small revision on my jaws and perhaps VFS. There is some jowl fat or skin I do not like (it may be fat and I am losing weight so I will see) that is not tight. She asked if I had bone removed and I said yes. She then said that is the problem with removing bone. I said I had fat graphs and that they failed. She said that is the problem with fat graphs and why I do not recommend them. She said my forehead lowering was done well and she could not see the scar. She liked my lip lift and loved the blethoplasty. I told her I had hair graphs in March 17 with Cooley and looked and said she loves Cooley's work. She then said my eyes could have been a little more open. So I may be having Spiegel open my eyes and tighten jaw skin and do VFS.  Dr. McGinn said I need to live my life and stop with the surgeries. Easy for someone that is beautiful to say.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 18, 2017, 08:30:50 AM
   Oh, I just looked at my ticker and it reminded me, one year RLE is today. I can't think of any other things to fulfill for surgery to happen. Well, except pack up all my stuff (careful not to say 'my junk') and get my butt there. Oh and the two days only liquids and the bowel prep...agh, I should have quit while I was ahead. Hehe.
   I am not nervous at this point, but time does seem to have sped up. So much to get done. It will get real when my brother arrives on Friday. One day to party, then the crash diet descends upon me.
Moni
Better watch out Clyde, your days are getting short now!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 18, 2017, 09:36:17 AM
We're super excited for you! I forgot, how far is your drive to McGinn's hospital?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 18, 2017, 10:59:30 AM
Hi Sadie,
   About 3 hours depending on how many of them cars are in my way.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 18, 2017, 04:34:02 PM
Bowl prep, yuck. I got 2 bottles of magnesium citrate and ex-lax just incase. Make sure to drink enough water and definitely "eat" the broth.

When I was waiting in pre-op. Dr. McGinn and Brianna were there signing papers. The Nurse Anesthetist came over and said let me give you something to make you comfortable. I woke up and the operation was over. I thought they would walk over and ask, are you sure you want GCS. That never happened and I had some witty remark prepared. Oh-well, I will save it for next time :) .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 18, 2017, 04:48:54 PM
Although I'm usually quite chill, completely giving up control isn't an easy thing for me and when it comes to decisions, I favor a very short loop, decide and act; I'm not comfortable with extensive analysis and second guessing. That of course is the nature of GCS due to WPATH and because I'd had a quasi workable sex life pre-op, there were for sure doubts in my mind.

So in the moment of going under I was scared, second guessing and keenly aware of the imminence of giving up control.

Like you, nobody asked; unlike you, I was feeling some panic rising and that wasn't how I wanted to go under.

Then Heidi held my hand, I knew it was her because we'd shaken hands a few minutes prior and her fingers were ice cold. I went under feeling her reassurance, it meant a lot.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 18, 2017, 09:35:55 PM
I am starting to feel the presence of this, what should I say, disturbance in the force, headed my way. It is nice not to have any doubts that this is the right thing. I have said before, I never had a moments pride in having that thing down there. I guess I hope I have everything together. It is such a rush right now. I walked outside and spent a bit of time by myself tonight. I just know that after waiting so long, the emotions are going to be incredible.
Monica
I want to know that moment I go under. Maybe I should tell them that Rachel.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 18, 2017, 10:26:57 PM
Anyone know? When I have GCS done, will I still have to get some dumb doctor/therapist letter for BA? You would think getting that done would kind of scream, "Yeah, I have pretty much jumped through all the hoops I needed to to get that done."
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on June 18, 2017, 10:30:24 PM
Pre surgical nerves are normal. I would be worried about you if you didn't have them. The good thing is if you did your homework correctly, they will be gone when you wake up. I have heard of cases where they were so bad that the person refused surgery and rescheduled at a latter date. Fortunately that doesn't happen often. Just keep yourself busy and try not to think about it much.

After GCS, you write your own letters. If you need a new endo, no letter required. If you desire any other type of surgery, again, no letter required. I needed nothing other than my request to get voice surgery and to return to HRT at a new location.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 19, 2017, 03:29:19 PM
Quote from: Dena on June 18, 2017, 10:30:24 PM
Pre surgical nerves are normal. I would be worried about you if you didn't have them. The good thing is if you did your homework correctly, they will be gone when you wake up. I have heard of cases where they were so bad that the person refused surgery and rescheduled at a latter date. Fortunately that doesn't happen often. Just keep yourself busy and try not to think about it much.

After GCS, you write your own letters. If you need a new endo, no letter required. If you desire any other type of surgery, again, no letter required. I needed nothing other than my request to get voice surgery and to return to HRT at a new location.
Thanks Dena, nice to know I will finally be dropping the need for other people giving me the okay. It's okay for a while but it gets old.
The nerves have finally hit. Well not mine, but my SO's. She was very upset this morning. I know I will be going through this physically, but it is really really hard to watch a loved one in pain and discomfort. I know she was flashing back to last year's midnight run to the ER. It was very traumatic for her watching me yell from the pain and watching them have to hold pressure on my face to stop the blood. I know that is still on her mind. I don't really relate that to this year. I guess I figure the thought of not having the surgery was so much worse than what I will have to deal with with surgery. My part is done, it is now in the surgeon's hands until recovery.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 19, 2017, 03:53:18 PM
Ah Moni, I can relate. My partner was somewhat in denial about the whole thing until I was there. With a plan for her to follow and be there to pick me up when I was discharged from the recovery facility, she was suddenly quite distraught as we shared status on the phone and then moreso when she realized recovery was going to be a larger task than she'd imagined.

Happily amidst that shes also been a rock. We'll all be wishing you a trouble free recovery and smooth happy sailing for both of you. I think it's a given that people going for GCS have to factor all the downsides and our loved ones are necessarily a step removed.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 19, 2017, 05:51:40 PM
I try to keep mine in the loop and let her know it's coming soon. She surprisingly tolerated my FFS very well and has been the awesome life partner she always was. I truly did Marry ^^^^UP^^^^!! I suspect since yours is still here as well...so did you. You're almost home, sweetie. After this, it's all gravy and you get to do you. The way it should have always been. :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 19, 2017, 07:25:34 PM
I did not need a letter for my BA.

The whole surgery and recovery thing gets a little old. When you have an issue after a surgery you definitely treat the next one with caution.

I had a little conversation with myself just before going to the hospital for GCS. I asked myself if I was sure. I answered I am transsexual, I have genital dysphoria ( I had no idea how bad until I awoke from GCS and my genital dysphoria was gone) and there is no way I am every going back. So, yes I am sure. It was really that simple, for me. I am who I am and I accept who I am. GCS relieved my genital dysphoria and it did some other things too. The benefits are still unwinding, mostly mental. I feel so much better about myself and I do not mean just genital related. It is a sense of well being.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 19, 2017, 08:04:03 PM
My genital dysphoria went away when I was able to wear pretty panties (but see also my good/bad/ugly post).
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Marcieelizabeth on June 19, 2017, 08:25:41 PM
Moni -

Cannot wait to hear the good news after your GCS sending love your way good friend!

Love and hugs, Marcie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 19, 2017, 08:41:55 PM
Thank you ladies, it truly is an amazing time for me. I think I am trying to keep a level head going into this. The benefits come after coping with some hard stuff, bowel prep, no eating, the pain of surgery. I guess I don't want to get too far ahead of myself. I could get real excited about all the things I have dreamed of. I am going to try to enjoy as much of this adventure as I can. Basically if I wake up and they said things went well, I will be happy. I am so lucky to have this chance. Love you all for your support. It makes me feel all warm and gooey inside. Really.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 19, 2017, 10:45:30 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 19, 2017, 08:41:55 PM
Thank you ladies, it truly is an amazing time for me. I think I am trying to keep a level head going into this. The benefits come after coping with some hard stuff, bowel prep, no eating, the pain of surgery. I guess I don't want to get too far ahead of myself. I could get real excited about all the things I have dreamed of. I am going to try to enjoy as much of this adventure as I can. Basically if I wake up and they said things went well, I will be happy. I am so lucky to have this chance. Love you all for your support. It makes me feel all warm and gooey inside. Really.
Moni

   And just think, after you wake up and have a couple days to get over your wonderful new equipment you can worry about my imminent arrival again. bwaaaaah. Yup I'll be there you can count on it.

  Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 20, 2017, 10:45:52 AM
I have a message for a friend. This world needs dreamers.

Much Love
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Marcieelizabeth on June 20, 2017, 10:53:07 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 20, 2017, 10:45:52 AM
I have a message for a friend. This world needs dreamers.

Much Love

Ah to Dream, if they were  all reality!

"Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart."
― Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 22, 2017, 08:01:27 AM
   Hi all, is there anybody out there? Hello. Of sorry, I thought my mike wasn't working. Well, gosh I haven't had too much to say, and, for me, that in itself is a bit of a miracle. I have 3 days left to eat. Then there is something about some sort of surgery after that, I  don't know. I am not a 'live to eat' type of person, but I really hate the thought of liquid diet for two days. Thank goodness I get to look forward to the bowel prep after that. Most of us older folks know how sweet that magnesium citrate tastes. Yummy! Oh you young folks are gonna love that colonoscopy too. But that is another story.
   Let's see nerves! I am nervous about voluntarily making myself feel like crap for a while. I think back to last summer's FFS nightmare and hope it is not the same. There is the possibility it could be worse, but why stress on that. I hope to take each day and squeeze all the enjoyment out that  I can. It's ridiculous, me almost sounding like an optimist there, but I have decided to do this GCS only once. No, no save your begging and pleading, the second GCS is off the table. I am so looking forward to me being the girl in the operating room, waiting for the lights to go out, thinking, "God I'm hungry!" Oh yeah, and "When I wake up that thing I have hated all my life will be gone, and I will be left with a toy that, crap, I will probably have to wait til Christmas to play with. At least I can look at it.
   So that is what is what's happening in my warped little mind.
Moni
Oh, I knew there was a reason I started this. On the liquid diet, I can eat, sorry drink, chicken  broth. Can I use Cambell's chicken noodle and strain out the chunks or do I have to do the broth in a can? Thanks, hugs to everyone.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 22, 2017, 08:45:11 AM
Oh I'm betting you'll be playing with it before the end of summer.

Two days off solid foods is tough, I'm wishing you an easy time, bowel prep, well that just sucks.

You're gonna have a great time, hugs.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 22, 2017, 08:53:48 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 22, 2017, 08:01:27 AM
   Hi all, is there anybody out there? Hello. Of sorry, I thought my mike wasn't working. Well, gosh I haven't had too much to say, and, for me, that in itself is a bit of a miracle. I have 3 days left to eat. Then there is something about some sort of surgery after that, I  don't know. I am not a 'live to eat' type of person, but I really hate the thought of liquid diet for two days. Thank goodness I get to look forward to the bowel prep after that. Most of us older folks know how sweet that magnesium citrate tastes. Yummy! Oh you young folks are gonna love that colonoscopy too. But that is another story.
   Let's see nerves! I am nervous about voluntarily making myself feel like crap for a while. I think back to last summer's FFS nightmare and hope it is not the same. There is the possibility it could be worse, but why stress on that. I hope to take each day and squeeze all the enjoyment out that  I can. It's ridiculous, me almost sounding like an optimist there, but I have decided to do this GCS only once. No, no save your begging and pleading, the second GCS is off the table. I am so looking forward to me being the girl in the operating room, waiting for the lights to go out, thinking, "God I'm hungry!" Oh yeah, and "When I wake up that thing I have hated all my life will be gone, and I will be left with a toy that, crap, I will probably have to wait til Christmas to play with. At least I can look at it.
   So that is what is what's happening in my warped little mind.
Moni
Oh, I knew there was a reason I started this. On the liquid diet, I can eat, sorry drink, chicken  broth. Can I use Cambell's chicken noodle and strain out the chunks or do I have to do the broth in a can? Thanks, hugs to everyone.

  My dearest Lonnie, or was it Connie? No it rhymed with Tony I think... A song title or something..

   Now I know that wasn't right...*sigh*  I know, I know, I should give up on trying to get your name right. I mean it's not really that important is it?

  Well well well do I detect some sign of human worry starting to manifest itself in your post? Finally a little bit of acknowledgement that this pending surgery is a very big deal? Like "life changing" even? It is !! I cannot wait to see you after you are finally in the body that matches who you are in your head. I might even call you "Moni" then. No promises though so don't you go starting rumors or get your hopes up. I mean I can only do so much to appear as though I am a nice person, then I break out laughing and go back to being me.

   I sure can't give you any advice on preparing for your pending event but I think I understand the prep is going to be a pain in the ass ROLFLMAO  Sorry I couldn't resist it!  Yes, I've had to do the liquid diet and quaff my thirst with a gallon of nasty tasting beverage, but for me it was only a day w/o solid foods and a day of living in the toilet. Not fun for me but I will be chuckling whenever I think of you doing it. Nope, no sympathy, I was born w/o those compassionate feelings and emotions. If I remember right they told me "clear" liquids for my colonoscopy and that would probably eliminate the strained soup. If you drink enough you can get that bloated feel. Yeah I know it's not like that satisfying full feeling of a good meal but its not an empty, "I'm STARVING!" feeling either. LMAO.

   It's all going to be worth it Meenie? minie? Mo?  Whateva!

Love ya,
    Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 22, 2017, 01:24:34 PM
Laurie,
   Remind me not to have you visit on my deathbed. Oye!
Mon knee

Love you too, ya crazy!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 22, 2017, 03:56:22 PM
I think you would be ok with strained Campbell's. Definitely get all the broth you can.

I was afraid of damaging it so I did not use it. Then I was given the homework assignment of using it before my next appointment.  I had to learn how to use it which took a bit. When I found out how to use it  became a wonderful addition to after dilation relaxation :)

Good luck.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 22, 2017, 04:13:13 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 22, 2017, 08:01:27 AM
   
Oh, I knew there was a reason I started this. On the liquid diet, I can eat, sorry drink, chicken  broth. Can I use Cambell's chicken noodle and strain out the chunks or do I have to do the broth in a can? Thanks, hugs to everyone.

One thing I noticed when I had my FFS last month. Afterwords, I made the effort to live on Ensures. In short order it turned my bowels to liquid. Now that was something I didn't want, but given that this surgery is a bit different than that and any surgery generally causes constipation, it may just be exactly what you'd want to happen. Just a heads up in case it may be information you can use. Good luck, Moni. Don't think you'll need it. But good luck anyways, Girl. Sending all positive energy your way! Lisa
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rayna on June 22, 2017, 05:10:02 PM


Quote from: Laurie on June 22, 2017, 08:53:48 AM
I might even call you "Moni" then.
Ha! I heard Laurie accidentally say "Moni" in person last weekend. Yes, she is capable of it, despite all that posturing. I suspect she may have even gentled into a semi-empathetic human being by the time she gets there. No promises though.

Moni, best of luck as you embark on your great adventure. Just think of bowel clearing as a stage of "elimination" of that which must "go" for you to reach your destination lol. You'll get all new female flora and fauna for your internals, to go with the rest.

I sincerely it goes better than your most optimistic scenario.
Randy

Sent from my Victor 9000 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 22, 2017, 10:30:24 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on June 22, 2017, 03:56:22 PM
I think you would be ok with strained Campbell's. Definitely get all the broth you can.

I was afraid of damaging it so I did not use it. Then I was given the homework assignment of using it before my next appointment.  I had to learn how to use it which took a bit. When I found out how to use it  became a wonderful addition to after dilation relaxation :)

Good luck.
Rachel for a minute there, I thought  the 'it' in the second paragraph related to the Campbell's soup.  "I think I'll dilate and relax with my soup."
Thank you  for that though. I am actually looking forward to figuring everything out with 'it'. If I get too annoying in my silliness, I'm sorry, it is what I do in place of being nervous I think. I went to an outdoor concert tonight and all I could think about was, "Okay,  I have two more days to eat right?"

Lisa, I like chocolate so I'm not sure the ensure would get rid of the brownness factor. lol Oh, I am dumb, you meant after. OMG I am losing it! Thank you for the warm wishes and positive vibes.

Randy, you said semi-empathetic not semi automatic right? I am a little worried, and the fact that she got my name right might just indicate erratic behavior on her part. I will give her a big hug when she gets here and hope for the best.
Now this flora and fauna is what you vegans eat for breakfast, right? I will order eggs, sausage, and french toast when she gets here. She doesn't burn the eggs does she?
Seriously Randy, thanks for the encouragement. I appreciate it.


A few days ago I thought I really screwed up. I was cutting the grass and backed up to poison ivy right on my bare back. I was picturing two weeks of hell laying on my back with poison ivy all over it. Luckily, I washed it off and so far only have two spots  on my legs. Can you say, "Panic?"
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on June 23, 2017, 01:05:56 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 22, 2017, 10:30:24 PM
.... to the Campbell's soup.  "I think I'll dilate and relax with my soup."

As long as you don't get them mixed up (soup and dilator) then you  should be pretty right I would guess!  ;) ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 23, 2017, 11:12:58 AM
Quote from: ElizabethK on June 23, 2017, 01:05:56 AM
As long as you don't get them mixed up (soup and dilator) then you  should be pretty right I would guess!  ;) ;)

OMG!! Lol @ Liz   too funny!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 23, 2017, 01:49:08 PM
Quote from: RandyL on June 22, 2017, 05:10:02 PM
Ha! I heard Laurie accidentally say "Moni" in person last weekend. Yes, she is capable of it, despite all that posturing. I suspect she may have even gentled into a semi-empathetic human being by the time she gets there. No promises though.

Randy

  I did not! There Randy I told you I would deny it if you told her I slipped up and said her name right. How dare you spread such malicious rumors? What is this talk of posturing, gentling and being empathetic? You know better than that. Besides I have a reputation to uphold.

  Sonia?, sony?, hey you, My 30-06 is semi automatic, but I left it at home. I would like to get me a nice purse sized semi-automatic pistol though....  Either wouldn't be good for my visit though as you won't really be a challenge laying in that recovery bed.  I figure blunt force trauma would be more appropriate. Don't worry I'll figure out something...
I don't want you to suffer from the after surgery pain for very long. I hate seeing a grown woman crying. It makes me feel so helpless.

  Be good Joni and enjoy the preparations for your new self. LOL Be sure to keep us up to date. You can give us just the overview instead of all the sh***y details, but do tell us how everything comes out (wink) ;) ;)

  Hugs,
   Laurie

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 23, 2017, 02:16:09 PM
4 days!! Does that mean only 1.5 more days of solid food?

Hugs, will be following your progress!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 23, 2017, 04:32:22 PM
Hi all, down to one real day to eat. That is no fun thought. Even Clyde is acting weird. Damn dog acted like one of those pointer dogs this morning. So happy he will be put to sleep and I never have to experience that again, yuk. Oh the previous message might be TMI so you might not want to read it. Hehe! I might just drown him in the soup ahead of schedule. My brother is 50 miles from here and when he gets here I may not write too much for a bit. Good news, you can all talk behind my back. Laurie, I have decided on body guards so you better bring your worst. One of them is Mr. Mayagi from Karate Kid. He said he may not bring his wheelchair like he did on his job interview with me, so watch out. Love all you crazy folks. What is wrong with me not being nervous about the surgery. I just want to eat. I'll even poop my brains out for them if I can just eat.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 23, 2017, 05:25:21 PM
Almost there! Were all with you in spirit Monica. I think you're gonna sail through this thing. You've got to good an outlook and attitude for anything else to happen. Now go a big glass of water and some ex-lax  to celebrate
:D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 23, 2017, 05:33:46 PM
Hi Monica, I was thinking of stopping by Lower South on Wednesday after work. I will text you to make sure it is ok. If Wednesday is not good it will give me an excuse to not go to group on Thursday and stop by.

Take a pic of the butterflies. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 23, 2017, 10:34:13 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on June 23, 2017, 05:25:21 PM
Almost there! Were all with you in spirit Monica. I think you're gonna sail through this thing. You've got to good an outlook and attitude for anything else to happen. Now go a big glass of water and some ex-lax  to celebrate
:D
Lisa you know how to party don't ya? lol

Rachel, sounds good hopefully I'll be fully baked by the time you see me.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 25, 2017, 06:17:38 AM
Hi,

   I was surprised how emotional last night was. It was a family get together, with friends too. So many emotions put forth that sprung from others. My son called me away to go outside to tell me he was nervous for me. There was a lot of shared, personal feeling that had us both in tears.  My other biological son then joined us. It was so sweet. The three of us looking up at the stars and the lightening bugs in the trees, talking, laughing and crying. My son told me that he would remember this night with "My Dad" for the rest of his life. Of my, this is what it is all about. I leave for Philly at 1PM for the B&B. I now have such a wonderful thought to get me through the hard part of this surgery.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: josie76 on June 25, 2017, 07:27:12 AM
Good luck Monica! Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 25, 2017, 08:25:52 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 25, 2017, 06:17:38 AM
Hi,

   I was surprised how emotional last night was. It was a family get together, with friends too. So many emotions put forth that sprung from others. My son called me away to go outside to tell me he was nervous for me. There was a lot of shared, personal feeling that had us both in tears.  My other biological son then joined us. It was so sweet. The three of us looking up at the stars and the lightening bugs in the trees, talking, laughing and crying. My son told me that he would remember this night with "My Dad" for the rest of his life. Of my, this is what it is all about. I leave for Philly at 1PM for the B&B. I now have such a wonderful thought to get me through the hard part of this surgery.
Moni

What a wonderful send off Moonie. Such a lovely evening and send off for you. Have a safe trip to the B&B. And I'll agree with you now you'll have such a wonderful memory to carry you through the rough parts. It should hep you right on through to the time you'll be feeliing better and then you'll remember I am almost there... Then you'll me able to get back to the important worrying. You'll know again that I am getting closer and closer to finding you...
   I bet you are so excited that the final prep will be starting and can't wait to go and go and go and go.  Make sure you keep drinking that yummy beverage until the waters are running clear again. Don't worry Meenie I'm sure everything will come out in the end. Soon you will no longer be the butt of the jokes and puns.  ;) ;) At least you would think that. Even false hope is still hope.
   See you soon. Da Dum, Da Dum Da Dum

  Hugs,
     Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on June 25, 2017, 08:59:29 AM
For you, hon:

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsIAzlLO.jpg&hash=7d90da4d5ffb3cc1ccd594fd03a59770c3e421f7)

With kindness (and a few giggles),

Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jazmynne on June 25, 2017, 09:06:16 AM
Monie. wishing you well and be safe. :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Denni on June 25, 2017, 09:40:37 AM
Oh, my gosh, Maybebaby, that is so funny, Betty White is a treasure, what a wit!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 25, 2017, 11:09:11 AM
Good luck.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 25, 2017, 11:16:25 AM
Quote from: Maybebaby56 on June 25, 2017, 08:59:29 AM
For you, hon:

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsIAzlLO.jpg&hash=7d90da4d5ffb3cc1ccd594fd03a59770c3e421f7)

With kindness (and a few giggles),

Terri

L.O.L.   my new Wallpaper
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 25, 2017, 04:41:26 PM
Hi all,
   We made it to the BnB where I will stay tomorrow. It is nice here, but the TV is broken and Ann warned me, "Don't step in the..." as I turned to see, my foot went right in the poison ivy. Second exposure of the week. This time I have no cleaner available. I just hope it isn't too bad. The stuff from last week is fading now. Oh well, I am determined to deal with anything from here on out. Not gonna fuss bout nothin. Well maybe Laurie. I thank everyone who writes, it does make me feel good, each and every one of you. We really are a nice bunch of people, we trans people. I am proud to be part of this community. I will talk later.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 25, 2017, 05:35:12 PM
Honi, I was thinking of you 3ish this afternoon and that you were probably most of the way there.

Glad to hear you made it! As for PI, washing with soap of whatever kind within 15 minutes should address it. If you got some on clothing, sat that aside until it can be washed.

Hugs, sorry you're not eating, I had an extra helping of risotto for you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 25, 2017, 05:53:08 PM
For whoever is with you, there is Moo across the street and a little bit up from Gaia. They have a good burger(I ate there Saturday). Giant (food store) is in the Village Square shopping center where Papillion is located. There is a pretty good pizza place as you leave village square shopping center go left and it is on the left hand side. The Raven has good food and a pool and is very LGBT friendly. It is on the right as you leave Village Square heading to the strip in New Hope. Havana is a good place to eat and it is on Main Street. Lambertville Station has good food and is across the bridge on Bridge street in NJ. It is on the right as you enter NJ. There are lots of shops and places to eat in Lambertville as well as New Hope.

The area is expensive. 

Good luck. After I had GCS I was concerned with how my vagina looked (very concerned, I can share pics). 7 Months later and it is so very beautiful. Dr. McGinn does really good work and is really dedicated to her patients. Oh, I have wonderful sensation too :) . Relax and take a deep breath,  everything will be fine.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 25, 2017, 05:55:06 PM
Yeah....I ate twice as much today to help you out, M.  Burrppp! Scuse' me!  Damned beer and pizza.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 25, 2017, 06:30:11 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on June 25, 2017, 05:55:06 PM
Yeah....I ate twice as much today to help you out, M.  Burrppp! Scuse' me!  Damned beer and pizza.
Oh, you know how to hurt a girl, who needs food anyhow? Am looking forward to my water tomorrow, thank you very much.



Rachel,
Would love to see the pictures especially since we have same surgeon. I am pretty relaxed as you can tell by my ridiculous attempts at humor. Clyde, on the other hand is quite nervous. But then every dog has its day!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on June 25, 2017, 08:07:32 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 25, 2017, 06:17:38 AM
Hi,

   I was surprised how emotional last night was. It was a family get together, with friends too. So many emotions put forth that sprung from others. My son called me away to go outside to tell me he was nervous for me. There was a lot of shared, personal feeling that had us both in tears.  My other biological son then joined us. It was so sweet. The three of us looking up at the stars and the lightening bugs in the trees, talking, laughing and crying. My son told me that he would remember this night with "My Dad" for the rest of his life. Of my, this is what it is all about. I leave for Philly at 1PM for the B&B. I now have such a wonderful thought to get me through the hard part of this surgery.
Moni

Good Luck Moni, you have this wonderful thought to hold on to if you are feeling a bit low. Will be thinking of you and hope it all goes without a hitch and we have you back here keeping "Lorry" in line.

Take Care
Hugs
Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 26, 2017, 06:46:07 AM
Moni, what time is your procedure tomorrow?!! I'm so excited for you!

Congrats on getting here and hugs and let us know how you're doing!

<3 Sadie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Denni on June 26, 2017, 09:14:44 AM
Okay everyone, we all know that Moni, will be having some sort of surgical procedure tomorrow, for the life of me I am having a difficult time remembering exactly what it is. I know it has something to do with her dog Clyde, (I think). So, to try and help her out I have come up with a check list to make sure that she is properly prepared.

Make sure that she gives the hospital security officers pictures of Laurie and warn them of her impending arrival.
Warn them of how dangerous she might be and of all of the threats against her and poor Clyde

Make sure that she has enough doughnuts for each day of the week, a different color for each day would be helpful, but then Clyde growled something about she might be color blind. This would be a good time to get a pool going on how long she will have to sit on one of them before giving them a toss.

Make sure that she has her secret stash of candy bars hid well from everyone, (especially Laurie in case she gets through security, I hear she has a wicked nose for smelling sweets) so she can enjoy them when she is post-op.

Speaking of Laurie make sure that everyone on her hospital floor has pictures of Laurie and warn them of how dangerous she is in case she gets by the security officers, one can never be to careful.

Keep telling Clyde that it is simply a trip to get his nails clipped and nothing else, (poor devil).

In case Laurie gets through security, the nurse's station and everyone else, have her whip and chair available until help arrives.

Make sure that she has her dilator's arranged properly according to size, heard something that she want's to go for the gusto and start out with the largest immediately, patience, my dear, patience.

Seriously, if you are a Christian, say a prayer for her tomorrow, for a successful surgical procedure and speedy recovery. If you are not wish for the same for her and that everything goes well. I know that she will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Shy on June 26, 2017, 09:33:03 AM
Best wishes from across the pond Moni.

Peace and love and all that good stuff,

Sadie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: AnneK on June 26, 2017, 09:58:07 AM
Quote from: Denni on June 26, 2017, 09:14:44 AM
Keep telling Clyde that it is simply a trip to get his nails clipped and nothing else, (poor devil).

Will Clyde have to wear a cone collar?   :D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 26, 2017, 11:35:08 AM
Quote from: Denni on June 26, 2017, 09:14:44 AM
Okay everyone, we all know that Moni, will be having some sort of surgical procedure tomorrow, for the life of me I am having a difficult time remembering exactly what it is. I know it has something to do with her dog Clyde, (I think). So, to try and help her out I have come up with a check list to make sure that she is properly prepared.

Make sure that she gives the hospital security officers pictures of Laurie and warn them of her impending arrival.
Warn them of how dangerous she might be and of all of the threats against her and poor Clyde

Make sure that she has enough doughnuts for each day of the week, a different color for each day would be helpful, but then Clyde growled something about she might be color blind. This would be a good time to get a pool going on how long she will have to sit on one of them before giving them a toss.

Make sure that she has her secret stash of candy bars hid well from everyone, (especially Laurie in case she gets through security, I hear she has a wicked nose for smelling sweets) so she can enjoy them when she is post-op.

Speaking of Laurie make sure that everyone on her hospital floor has pictures of Laurie and warn them of how dangerous she is in case she gets by the security officers, one can never be to careful.

Keep telling Clyde that it is simply a trip to get his nails clipped and nothing else, (poor devil).

In case Laurie gets through security, the nurse's station and everyone else, have her whip and chair available until help arrives.

Make sure that she has her dilator's arranged properly according to size, heard something that she want's to go for the gusto and start out with the largest immediately, patience, my dear, patience.

Seriously, if you are a Christian, say a prayer for her tomorrow, for a successful surgical procedure and speedy recovery. If you are not wish for the same for her and that everything goes well. I know that she will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs
I love this Denni, but I fear you have stepped in doo doo. You may have awakened a sleeping giant and she might soon be looking your way. Well, you have until after she is finished with me at least.

Anne, I am trying to picture how that would work. Right now he has his tail tucked between my legs. Now that has to stop.

Sadie, thank you very much.

Liz, does anyone really keep her in line?

Love you all,

Moni
If you must pray, please pray for me to eat. lol I hear Laurie spells it 'prey.'
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 26, 2017, 04:41:55 PM
Maybe my last post pre surgery. I have started the Magnesium Citrate which is not as bad as the old powder in water stuff. It always makes me so nauseous. I am now watching for the bathroom runs.  I got a cute text from someone saying good bye to Clyde, "may he never rise again.' She followed up with a, "Welcome to the full Moni." I have such creative friends. I now have a show up time at 8:30 AM. I am the second surgery, so I hope they stick me on a gurney somewhere so I can get a cat nap. The runs have begun. Sorry, TMI!!?? I got nervous  right before drinking the magic elixir, cause I hate barfing. I can feel my body anxiety building but still I am not dreading the  surgery. Call me crazy, dumb, or naive. Oh, note on the two days before. I have prepped for surgery before and drank a variety of things and it wasn't too great. This time I drank water only, and it wasn't as bad. Well I had apple juice this AM and it made my stomach funky. So, maybe the add in things that some drinks have can cause issues. I am hoping that is not my only word to the wise in the thread. Oh yeah, I did get the eye covers, the ones  that look like little eye bras, and they  are great. Helps with sleep.
Starting to feel bad, so I will go. Love to all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on June 26, 2017, 04:46:58 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on June 26, 2017, 04:41:55 PM
Maybe my last post pre surgery. I have started the Magnesium Citrate which is not as bad as the old powder in water stuff. It always makes me so nauseous. I am now watching for the bathroom runs.  I got a cute text from someone saying good bye to Clyde, "may he never rise again.' She followed up with a, "Welcome to the full Moni." I have such creative friends. I now have a show up time at 8:30 AM. I am the second surgery, so I hope they stick me on a gurney somewhere so I can get a cat nap. The runs have begun. Sorry, TMI!!?? I got nervous  right before drinking the magic elixir, cause I hate barfing. I can feel my body anxiety building but still I am not dreading the  surgery. Call me crazy, dumb, or naive. Oh, note on the two days before. I have prepped for surgery before and drank a variety of things and it wasn't too great. This time I drank water only, and it wasn't as bad. Well I had apple juice this AM and it made my stomach funky. So, maybe the add in things that some drinks have can cause issues. I am hoping that is not my only word to the wise in the thread. Oh yeah, I did get the eye covers, the ones  that look like little eye bras, and they  are great. Helps with sleep.
Starting to feel bad, so I will go. Love to all,
Moni

OMG I just realised who you mean by "Clyde" up until this point I had this totally different image... Good luck Moni...hope you have your garlic and crosses to keep Laurie at a safe distance  ;D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 26, 2017, 05:50:06 PM
Good luck Monica. I see you Thursday in LBH. You are in the home stretch. Tomorrow when you awaken it is the new beginning.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 26, 2017, 10:24:38 PM
Hi Minie,

  I sit not comforting to know we are in the same state? It should be quite calming for you as you drift off to a peaceful anesthetic sleep knowing that I am nearby to keep you safe. I've got you back. I heard a rumor that Clyde was a pussy cat at heart. It that true? I also heard he didn't have the balls to do anything about it.
  I wish you well in all sincerity while the fix your broken toe? That is what all this fuss is about isn't it? Someone said you stubbed it so hard it looked like a camel toe. lol They didn't say weather it had one hump or two. Don't worry you get over those humps with little effort. I heard they weren't even A cups.

  Denni said something about you giving all the staff and security personal pictures of me so the will know who to escort into your room without delay.

  Well dear I hope they get that toe fixed quickly and without any complications.
See you soon.

Hugs,
    Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 26, 2017, 10:45:53 PM
Moni, thinking of ya. Huggles and best wishes for your day tomorrow
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 27, 2017, 12:20:32 AM
Hmmmmm. Today is the first day of the rest of Monica's life. We're pulling for you, our sister, to attain the perfect outcome you so richly deserve. We'll all see you on the other side where you can  then regale us with stories of how smoothly it all went. Hugs!! Lisa
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on June 27, 2017, 04:22:53 AM
Good luck Moni, thinking of you hon.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on June 27, 2017, 05:42:58 AM
Hi Ladies,
   I have a quick moment before I  do the dreaded enema. I woke up with a little energy and smiling from ear to ear. There was not a lot of sleeping. I was awake at 3 and had been up before that. I was finally awakened by the alarm. I had my first dream of me as a female. I was with my partner but I was soaking wet and trying to cover all three areas with my towel. Some mean woman wouldn't let me go to the bathroom at this fancy concert. Nothing is perfect, I got misgendered somewhere along the line. lol
    I still have this fear something will stop the surgery. I otherwise just feel that I should pay attention  to everything today. The change from one part of life to another is momentous and I hope to pay attention. Especially while I am asleep. Anyway, I guess I have to go. My next post might have me saying ouch every other word. Love all you crazies!
Moni XOXOXOXO
Laurie you are on the opposite side of the state right? Rachel, see you soon.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 27, 2017, 07:31:18 AM
8:30, the magic hour for our girl. Hugs Moni, sweet dreams and c u on the other side!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Sophia Sage on June 27, 2017, 07:49:13 AM
Wishing you all the best on the other side, Moni!

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 27, 2017, 03:33:46 PM
4:30 Eastern time, our girl out to be well out of surgery!

Looooorie? Rachel? Y'all are local, any word?

Moni, all my best wishes for a happy clydeless waking
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 27, 2017, 03:40:46 PM
Yup....all the parts should match the soul at this point. Now the work begins.  Lucky girl!. Clydes still there, by rhe way. He's a flower now and she's named claudia....
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on June 27, 2017, 05:01:49 PM
Happy Birthday Moni...Hope you are feeling reasonable now that you are "clydeless"
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 27, 2017, 05:19:00 PM
I will visit Thursday PM. I hope she is doing well.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Marcieelizabeth on June 27, 2017, 05:53:19 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on June 27, 2017, 05:19:00 PM
I will visit Wednesday PM. I hope she is doing well.

Please send her my best wishes and a hug!   Thanks!

Marcie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Steph Eigen on June 27, 2017, 08:25:34 PM
Moni,
I hope all went well, you're getting through the initial recovery without difficulty.

Best,

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Denni on June 28, 2017, 08:42:47 AM
Moni, wanted me to tell everyone that her surgery went well. She is resting well, not much pain but still not able to get up or eat anything. Hopefully tomorrow, I pity the first person that shows up with the food cart, their life may be in danger. Clyde's last words were, this doesn't look like someplace where they clip nails, that's a nail clipper?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 28, 2017, 08:57:45 AM
Thanks so much for conveying Moni's words and good news!

Moni, Moni, Moni, so happy for you, lots of huggles
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Marcieelizabeth on June 28, 2017, 09:44:53 AM
Thanks Denni!  ALas poor Clyde, all he ever did was what was asked of him! lol

Love and Hugs Marcie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 28, 2017, 10:30:48 AM
Quote from: SadieBlake on June 27, 2017, 03:33:46 PM
4:30 Eastern time, our girl out to be well out of surgery!

Looooorie? Rachel? Y'all are local, any word?

Moni, all my best wishes for a happy clydeless waking
Sorry Sadie,  Somehow Pennsylvania got lost last night and I discovered New York,  Vermont and am hunting Devlyns in Massachusetts. I don't think I'll be hunting moinys until the 30th. 

  I sure hope everything went well for her too. Hunting wounded prey is dangerous.

  Hugs
      Laurie

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 28, 2017, 10:36:30 AM
Oh well howdy and if you find yourself near camberville, I'm about, probably lurking in some basement or other. Bestest to Dev when you see her.

Quote from: Laurie on June 28, 2017, 10:30:48 AM
Sorry Sadie,  Somehow Pennsylvania got lost last night and I discovered New York,  Vermont and am hunting Devlyns in Massachusetts. I don't think I'll be hunting moinys until the 30th. 

  I sure hope everything went well for her too. Hunting wounded prey is dangerous.

  Hugs
      Laurie

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 28, 2017, 10:40:22 AM
Quote from: SadieBlake on June 28, 2017, 10:36:30 AM
Oh well howdy and if you find yourself near camberville, I'm about, probably lurking in some basement or other. Bestest to Dev when you see her.
Sure will Sadie

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on June 28, 2017, 11:00:59 AM
Congratulations, Moni!!! So happy for you. Wishing you a speedy recovery.  :-*
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SailorMars1994 on June 28, 2017, 11:25:28 AM
this is awesome, go Moni <3!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 28, 2017, 12:35:06 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on June 28, 2017, 10:36:30 AM
Oh well howdy and if you find yourself near camberville, I'm about, probably lurking in some basement or other. Bestest to Dev when you see her.
Would that be Cambridge, Ma as in north Boston, Sadie?

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Shy on June 28, 2017, 12:41:48 PM
So pleased for you Moni, glad things went well and wishing you a speedy recovery.

Peace and love and all that good stuff,

Sadie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on June 29, 2017, 06:46:45 PM
I saw Monica tonight at Lower Bucks Hospital. She is well, recovering slowly and asking about everyone here.

She hopes to fill everyone in on the details tonight or tomorrow. She has an awesome support base.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Devlyn on June 29, 2017, 06:57:53 PM
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1279.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy537%2FDevlynMarie%2FModstuff%2Fp120128b_zps5bb84833.jpg&hash=392b515c1c1b611e038eedc089df3bda42da5ccb)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on June 29, 2017, 07:44:46 PM
Thanks for the update Rachel!

Moni, hugs and glad to hear news of you! Laurie stopped by this afternoon and is heading your way, probably Saturday :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on June 29, 2017, 08:28:36 PM
Such good news.....such absolutely good news. It's so wonderful to see great things happening for great people.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 30, 2017, 02:48:10 AM
Quote from: SadieBlake on June 29, 2017, 07:44:46 PM
Thanks for the update Rachel!

Moni, hugs and glad to hear news of you! Laurie stopped by this afternoon and is heading your way, probably Saturday :-)
Good job Sadie with Mainy not expecting me until tomorrow,  she ought to be an easy harvest today.  The Maniaca hunt begins after breakfast in Franklin Park, NJ with p this morning.  I am little early ant awaiting her arrival.

Can't wait for the hunt to begin.

   Hugs,
    Laurie

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 30, 2017, 08:43:39 AM
Let the hunt begin! It's open season on moaning Monies .

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on June 30, 2017, 10:13:26 AM
I tried to delay her as much as I could, Moni, but I couldn't hold her back any longer--she could even be there already!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on June 30, 2017, 10:13:35 AM
It appears the hunt will have to be abandoned.  Prey is in a deep burrow wit no available access. The whole surrounding colony is barricaded and extremely hostile to hunters. 'sigh'

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on June 30, 2017, 02:35:28 PM
When you manage to sneak past her guards tell her if she is hungry don't eat that hamburger in her lap 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 01, 2017, 07:17:55 AM
Monica Arrived at Gaia yesterday evening and was resting.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 01, 2017, 09:52:17 AM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on July 01, 2017, 07:17:55 AM
Monica Arrived at Gaia yesterday evening and was resting.

Good news....thaks, Rachel.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 01, 2017, 09:55:19 AM
I ran into a slight problem in the hunt for my prey. It tirns out That Woman Myani chose a decidedly hunter hostile recovery location. After many fruitless attempts to locate a secure base camp for my operations (probably could have used a different word) I was forced to admit defeat. That wiley woman had out foxed me. Then after attempting to tender my letter of surrender she sends word that she wasn't even out of the hospital yet. (That woman , Mhony, needs to work on her adherence to schedules)
  Armed with this new tactical data I quickly reassessed my strategy and hopped back aboard my trusty steed and the hunt was once again on.
  I tracked her to her lair in the hodpital and found Moanycka defended by three formidable foes. Though outwardly very nice individuals they collectively were too much for this seasoned hunter. I was unable to bag my prey. I' m not sure that wasn't a good thing given the deteriorated  condition the prey was in. I obviously had seen better days and was displaying frequent grimaces of discomfort.(though they could have been a ruse to throw me off my game)
  Mindy sadely wasn't the only in in sad shape. It is with heavy heart I report to you this day the demise of Clyde. I seach for his remains but That Woman had hidden then well. I a demonica moment of triumphant glee she presented me with what appears to be the last known remnants of Clyde in the form of a flattened and decorared caricature of a minature penis. Such is the depths she will go to taunt me with her victory.
  After magmonously conveying all of your hugs and congratulations, I hung my head in prayer for the world as I unleashed her once again upon the wotld and let her valiant defenders convey her to her recovery burrow un New Hope. Als the hunt for Minihooha Moni is over.
  Down the road I go to meet what is probabaly the last two denizens of Susan's Place ( MaybeBaby and Georgette) before turning my trusty westward towards home.

Hugs'
    Laurie

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Sent from my LGL44VL using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 01, 2017, 10:10:12 AM
   Oh my gosh! You ladies are amazing. I cried when I got on line and read  all the messages. I am one lucky girl to have such wonderful friends. It is very touching. I had flowers delivered and got two fantastic visitors. I had a lovely talk with Rachel. I was afraid I would miss Laurie since she got here a day early. I took an extra day standing because my hemoglobin was low and they didn't want me to pass out. So, she came to the hospital yesterday.
   I am still tired. Most of the air from surgery is gone. I should have been in a farting contest, cause I would have won. Don't remember hearing about that part on line. Oh well, I said it was an adventure. I am doing well, although not seeing the area down there makes it not real yet. Dr. McGinn did a lot of surgeries this week and next so she called and moved dilation to Sunday night at 7PM. She mentioned cleaning me out somehow, maybe because I bled some. My biggest issue right now is that my eyes aren't focusing together to write a whole lot. Today is the first time it didn't make me nauseous looking at writing.
   So I will give more details soon. I did want it known that I presented Laurie with the carcass of  Clyde. (Don't worry, not gross). She may at some point share it with you. Woof.
Love to all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Johanna M on July 01, 2017, 10:27:28 AM
So glad to hear from you and that you are recovering.
Hugs
Johanna

Skickat från min LG-H815 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Shy on July 01, 2017, 11:23:58 AM
Yay Moni's back and she's talking about farting :icon_dance: Rest up girl now you've finished punching a hole in the ozone layer with all that excess gas. ;D
Did I say rest up girl? Just incase you missed it the first time with with your focus being all squiffy and stuff. Rest up girl and really lovely to hear from you :)

Peace and love and all that good stuff,

Sadie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 01, 2017, 11:57:31 AM
So good to hear from you.  Add in your inimitable sense of humor and it puts my mind at rest that all is okay. Yay!!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on July 01, 2017, 02:16:58 PM
Hows Clydette getting along playing the bag pipe, see she has to wait till Sunday to have a go on the chanter , lets hope its a tune and not a wailing noise ;D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 02, 2017, 02:46:32 AM
Moni, I'm so very glad for you, I totally get not able to focus / read, thT was a thing for me also. I happened to wake and talk to Heidi the afternoon of my surgery, she'd said I would but wouldn't remember. Well she was right and wrong -- I was lucid enough to realize I wouldn't see her for another week and so I asked her to retrieve my bag with a gift (hand blown wine goblet).

I remember very exactly knowing where to find it and pulling out the piece, unwrapping it, thanking her etc. However the doc was right, I didn't recall that conversation for a while and then only because I knew I'd given the gift and that anchored the memory for me later.

When I woke for real a few hours later I was able to make my 1 sentence announcement and read a little but then I didn't feel up to posting for another 3+ days. That evening was very much a blur and I was in and out of consciousness, I really enjoyed talking to my nurse Will who was a surfer and talking to him about different ways of breaking collarbones (he surfing in Hawaii, me in bicycle race). I also mostly blamed on that night until later.

I didn't tell you about the farting because I didn't especially, as in all things GCS, YMMV :-)

Big hugs sweetie, thinking of you and so glad you're doing ok can't wait to hear about your first dilation. Oh and I'm totes ready to exchange vagina photos!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 02, 2017, 03:02:43 AM
Hi Moni

Lovely to see you checking in, was looking at the dates wondering if Laurie had actually scared you tot death but I guess you just blew her off..  :icon_redface: :icon_redface:

Take care and we can wait to hear about you airy adventures when you are back in more control of your faculties :icon_flower:
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 02, 2017, 10:34:57 AM
Hi ladies, it is the Sunday after surgery last Tues. I didn''t start out to great this AM tossing my cookies. I was done  with the eggs at that point, but finished some of the rest. I think it happened beacause I have drink 8 bottles of water a day and sipping at night I ended up with auir in stomach. I got myself up and sat in a wheelchair on the porch for 5 minutes. It is now a little more sore now. I know it will be hard to get throw getting packing out at 7.  but yeah I get to see my new feline friend.
I am little disappointed in myself for not posting more but I get  headache with my lck of focus in my eyes. It was justa personal goal for me I guess.
I am sitting in my room laying i mean. I have such great support from family. My partner, my brother ans sister in law and my son and his girlfriend are here. Our family does this this way. I am so lucky and the upport from here is incredible. I wish everyone out there got tis much support in their lives.
I didn't want to bragg about my fight with Laurie  She knocked me down once ut I got her in a headlock and she cried Unccle.  It was a worth it because she then took Clyde's body and has to bury it in the grand Canyon. She can tie him to the rear bumper like in Vacation movie. "Poor  little guy kept for about a mile or so."
Just ran out of energy n I nneed to empty the catheter. Later my friends.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on July 02, 2017, 11:13:40 AM
I'm so glad to hear that you have so much wonderful support around you as you convalesce. Hope the big reveal goes well for you tonight!  :-*
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 02, 2017, 02:37:38 PM
Wow, packing out 5 days post op! I was 7 days with Wittenberg and I'd been at an airbnb for 3 days at that point.

Looking forward to lots of updates but only when you feel up to them, not an obligation, just when you feel up to it! :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on July 02, 2017, 03:33:27 PM
see you managed to steal Lauries phone or pad or did she put a misspell on you. Glad you came through OK and hope your not to sore, just drank a glass of red for you ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 02, 2017, 04:25:45 PM
Wow...look at you healing up so fast! Good job Monica! You're looking like the poster child for how to do this thing...
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 02, 2017, 04:45:57 PM
I know you all are curious about what became of Clyde, or actually what is left of Clyde. She (you know who) gave me his remnants to share with you all.

I present Clyde to you...

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfHJh18m.jpg&hash=53c22b976f8805c30a72414d888e0332ccc41525) (https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKFnmWc0.jpg&hash=d93e09a91624122c43e7e37ab747fab9f9c17081)

  I tell you that woman is a very sick young lady...

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on July 02, 2017, 05:54:35 PM
OMG, how did I miss this thread?  Moni, I am terribly sorry I didn't get a chance to join in the good wishes before your surgery.  Please accept my belated congratulations!  I hope you have a quick and uneventful recovery!  You are an amazing person, and will be even more so now that you are completely you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 02, 2017, 06:41:26 PM
Nice toi hear to hear you are alive and kicking  ;D and survived Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Devlyn on July 02, 2017, 06:53:25 PM
Quote from: Laurie on July 02, 2017, 04:45:57 PM
I know you all are curious about what became of Clyde, or actually what is left of Clyde. She (you know who) gave me his remnants to share with you all.

I present Clyde to you...

(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfHJh18m.jpg&hash=53c22b976f8805c30a72414d888e0332ccc41525) (https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKFnmWc0.jpg&hash=d93e09a91624122c43e7e37ab747fab9f9c17081)

  I tell you that woman is a very sick young lady...

Hugs,
   Laurie

I'm not wearing my glasses, but I see that whatever she gave
you, one of them points right and one points left.  >:-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on July 02, 2017, 07:02:48 PM
I'm just happy to hear that Moni is doing OK.  (Yes, when I know one of the folks here is going into surgery, I worry.  I seem to be 'Mom' to some of the folks in my support groups in the real world as well.  Probably instinctive.  I'm wired that way.)

Glad to hear that Moni is doing OK.  Clyde has gone on to a better place.  Or places...
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: RachelH on July 02, 2017, 09:29:08 PM
I am so happy for you Moni!!  Wishing you a very speedy recovery!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 02, 2017, 09:41:41 PM
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on July 02, 2017, 06:53:25 PM
I'm not wearing my glasses, but I see that whatever she gave
you, one of them points right and one points left.  >:-)

That happens Devlin. I took the sparkly picture first and turned Clyde over and he was upside down so I had to turn him the other direction. T'was just a lack of planning (I try not to do that and now you see why) and forethought on the part of the camera operator.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on July 03, 2017, 04:44:36 AM
Hi Moni,
So glad to hear that all is OK and you are well on the road to recovery.
I don't remember the farting thing, but I do remember not being able to focus properly.
Take care, and it sure sounds like you have a great support network around you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 03, 2017, 06:50:31 AM
How'd the unveiling go love?

Hugs, wishing you many happy dilations to come.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 03, 2017, 06:31:47 PM
   Gross warning if u read on.
Hi my wonderful friends! So much has gone on here. I laid down here, I laid down there, just so much going on all looking very much the same. So this is the rundown as my feeble brain remembers. Last evening at 7PM Dr. McGinn removed the vaginal packing which did not hurt. She had stitched in the outside padding to the skin. That hurt but was quick. She said she could numb it but it was just as many sticks. To be honest, pain was not an issue for me during this, the nausea and weakness where more my problem. I used a wheelchair there and back to the car. No way I could have walked that far. Since I had bled to the ponit of maybe needing a transfusion, this  was a big part of  my weakness. She was very gentle the whole time. Once the packing was out she had to clean out the blood and then trimmed some extra skin so as not to confuse things when dilating. She  then repacked the area of the mons to clear up the  blood/bleeding issue. I go Wed. to remove that. Next she cheched for sensitivity at the clitorus. It had feeling. Finally, she showed me dilation. She seemed very happy with depth. I am not sure what is good as far as dots but I could see 2 and the third was barely visible. Is that okay. I had to pack my tighter underware  with pads to keep pressure on the area. Before I got up I felt dizzy, so she laid me down and said take as much time as I needed. You know me, always making a wisecrack but I found mmyself only in awe of her. I asked how she liked making so many people's dreams come true. She said that it was her privilege to do it.
Am about out of energy but just got back in bed after peeing. By the time I am back to bed I am shivering like crazy. The other thing  about peeing is an observation. It is like driving  a car. For years I drove that car with Clyde as my steering wheel. Now I get on the toilet and there ain't no steering wheel. It has a serious mind of its own. I don't want to raise anyone's anxiety here but this really kicks your butt.
Love to all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 03, 2017, 07:08:16 PM
Luv to you hon, yes the first pee is so different. It's still different and be forewarned as healing progresses, you may find the stream is sometimes very slow - if so that's probably some swelling and not to worry so long as you can pee, all is ok and if at some point you can't that's very fixable, not fun but not a worry.

Nausea: for me that's caused by oxycodone, maybe it's different for you but here's a prescription I was given because I'd told them ahead I was prone to extreme nausea both coming out of anesthesia and from narcotic pain killers. It's called ondansetron, aka zofran. It worked amazingly for me, I* should have mentioned it to you before.

Depth at the 3rd dot visible is about 4.5 inches, definitely all you need except for with the largest of lovers.

About energy, yeah at this stage, just getting up to pee was a big deal, I'm gonna go lookup my whereabouts in sf on Google maps but I can tell you it was quite a while before i walked so much as a block. You're definitely on the range of normal hon.

<Edit>
p.s. ok I looked back at my location history and I was out to day 8 before I walked more than 40' at a time and certainly I was out to 12 days post op before I could do more than 1/10th of a normal walking pace and was 3 weeks before I could walk a mile (and I regretted doing that, it was probably what opened up a section of stitches).

Hugs again and so happy for you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 03, 2017, 08:05:09 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 03, 2017, 06:31:47 PM
   Gross warning if u read on.
Hi my wonderful friends! So much has gone on here. I laid down here, I laid down there, just so much going on all looking very much the same. So this is the rundown as my feeble brain remembers. Last evening at 7PM Dr. McGinn removed the vaginal packing which did not hurt. She had stitched in the outside padding to the skin. That hurt but was quick. She said she could numb it but it was just as many sticks. To be honest, pain was not an issue for me during this, the nausea and weakness where more my problem. I used a wheelchair there and back to the car. No way I could have walked that far. Since I had bled to the ponit of maybe needing a transfusion, this  was a big part of  my weakness. She was very gentle the whole time. Once the packing was out she had to clean out the blood and then trimmed some extra skin so as not to confuse things when dilating. She  then repacked the area of the mons to clear up the  blood/bleeding issue. I go Wed. to remove that. Next she cheched for sensitivity at the clitorus. It had feeling. Finally, she showed me dilation. She seemed very happy with depth. I am not sure what is good as far as dots but I could see 2 and the third was barely visible. Is that okay. I had to pack my tighter underware  with pads to keep pressure on the area. Before I got up I felt dizzy, so she laid me down and said take as much time as I needed. You know me, always making a wisecrack but I found mmyself only in awe of her. I asked how she liked making so many people's dreams come true. She said that it was her privilege to do it.
Am about out of energy but just got back in bed after peeing. By the time I am back to bed I am shivering like crazy. The other thing  about peeing is an observation. It is like driving  a car. For years I drove that car with Clyde as my steering wheel. Now I get on the toilet and there ain't no steering wheel. It has a serious mind of its own. I don't want to raise anyone's anxiety here but this really kicks your butt.
Love to all,
Moni

Great to hear of your recovery progressing... peppermint tea and ginger are both good for nausea.,,if you can stomach them  ;)

Hope things keep progressing well, take care 


Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 03, 2017, 08:09:47 PM
Checking in......so glad you're doing well! I understand  your pee stream will straighten out when swelling subsides.
Sleep tight!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 03, 2017, 08:19:26 PM
Hi Moanie,

  Read your update.. Sheesh is that the best you could do? Heck you act as if someone just cut of Clides and friends then did major surgery or something. Well I guess it is still progress and we casual observers will have to be satisfied with what we get.  Take it easy, there's no rush.

Loves ya weirdo,

Hugs,
   Laurie

Going down the road again tonight.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 05, 2017, 11:01:12 AM
   Hi everybody, I'm back again. I'm stronger today at day 8. Yesterday was the worst day. I felt pretty rotten all around nausea, bleeding, swelling, no dilation, no energy. In the middle of the night I had my first BM which wasn't too bad, it was solid and I tried  not to strain with it. For some reason, I am more myself this morning (be afraid, be very afraid), so I woke up had a shower, ate a breakfast, and went to see Brianna at Dr. McGinn's. She removed the packing from below the sutures and repacked the area. I go back to see the doctor tomorrow and she will check with the speculum to see if internals are ok. If all good, I can leave for home on Friday. Yea!
   Let me see, things I have learned. It is wonderful to have at least  one meal, breakfast taken care of by the place you are staying at. I can not imagine doing this procedure without help of some kind. I am neither the strongest or the weakest person, but this is a long period of time to do everything you need to do, you feel like crap, and if you have complications, it can be downright dangerous to be on your own. It has been so stressful, I haven't even taken to heart what this change even means yet. I am more in survival mode than, "Oh what a life change."  There have been a few times in recent days where I said, "What the hell have I done to myself, voluntarily making myself feel like crap like this." No regrets though. Some say dysphoria is instantly gone. I haven't even contemplated this yet.
   I know the paragraph above will stress a good friend of mine and I don't want to do that, but I don't do any favors by sugar coating either.
   Hope everyone   is doing well. Thank you for the support, it helped. XOXOXO
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 05, 2017, 11:19:28 AM
Be good to yourself, Moni. It's pretty well known that major surgery and anesthesia can cause some pretty severe depression. So  keep that in your consciousness so you can combat it. Glad to see you posting! Be well!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 05, 2017, 11:30:01 AM
Monica intoned:
QuoteI am more in survival mode than, "Oh what a life change."  There have been a few
times in recent days where I said, "What the hell have I done to myself, voluntarily making myself feel like crap like this." No regrets though. Some say dysphoria is instantly gone. I haven't even contemplated this yet.

You already know, I can so relate to this, I see you've replied to my latest so you know I've turned another couple of corners myself, gonna go look-see what you intoned over there.

Big hugs and wishes for fast healing. We know there will be 2 step forward & 1 back days, that's just part of it. So glad to hear your happy news.

[Edit]
p.s. I don't think I'll ever know if being too ambitious in walking in weeks 2, 3 post op were responsible for the opening of the left suture line, that was also the side where the drains were located so it seems likely that caused some weakness on that side and problems in that area are experienced post op by many.

Still, I think be cautious in activity - too much too soon can definitely cause problems.

Hugs again :-)

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 05, 2017, 11:57:31 AM
 Hi Moany,

  Glad you are finally having a better day and wish you many more. I know you have a superior support team there to assist you and I'm sur you made good use of them. Been thinking I wish I wasn't so easily detoured by then minor issues of crowds of humanity, narrow streets and difficult parking. I will admit it is what kept be from remaining about night in the DC area and seeing Georgette. But it also was the deciding factor in not returning back to New Hope to visit you again. By that time i was overloaded on exposure to those factors and removed myself to more comfortable conditions. Sorry.

  There is always the possibility of a future road trip as I enjoy getting out on the road. Perhaps another visit with you and your partner will be a destination again. It could happen.

  Anyway get well and enjoy learning the new you.

  All the best to you and your better half.
Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on July 05, 2017, 06:09:44 PM
Thanks so much for keeping us in the loop, Moni. I am keeping you in my thoughts and am so glad to hear that things seem to be progressing well. It is a long road you are on, but it seems that the worst is behind you. Sending you love!  :-*
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 05, 2017, 06:14:16 PM
You are sounding much better today and that ios great to hear..."enjoy" the rest of your recovery(Laurie free  ;) )
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 06, 2017, 06:33:47 PM
Hi Monica,

I am glad you are eating and finally feeling better. I was concerned and am now relieved, good luck with your tip home tomorrow.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 08, 2017, 11:28:54 AM
Hi everyone,

   I love all your sweet posts and thank you so much. Although  I am still in the area to see the doctor, I am doing much better. I was given the ok to go out and eat for our anniversary last night. I never enjoyed going to a Diner so much. lol Dr. McGinn has been everything I could have wanted in looking after me. I have no complaints. I really am glad I stayed in the area rather than go home and stress about every little change. I think the extra 3 days will help me sit better for the ride home. I stood in front of a mirror this morning. I don't have words to describe how I felt. As crazy as things are with bruising, stitching, swelling, it doesn't matter, I am finally me. Gosh, bring on the tears! Oh, sorry, I am just struck by the difference in how I feel. None of the pain, hassle, nausea, matter now. It really doesn't.
   I have looked at this as an adventure and I think it really is the best way to do it. Soak in the positive and slough off the negative. Not too high and not to low. Make sure you keep in mind the negative will not last. I have so much more to unfold  in this adventure. I haven't bothered thinking about a lot of the benefits/ good parts of this. I am so sensitive in much of the area down there. I can't imagine exploring it at all yet. I decided already that if it doesn't work for orgasm that it will be okay, still worth getting it done.  That has not changed. I think of going to dinner, talking to the waitress last night. It was different. I was different. Maybe I am not strong enough to make that leap with still having the penis, but I have  made a leap. I am so happy.
    Medically, since I bled so much, I had edema, swelling. She has stopped packing under the stitching with gauze. Now I have pads in certain areas to create pressure on the problem areas. If you have this issue, a pair of panty hose with the legs cut off work pretty good for this. She also wants gauze in the vaginal opening to keep it drier.  My partner
did this for me and it was a 'new' experience for her. lol
   I will add more later. I have missed being here. I either had too much going on, or no access to internet. Love to all
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on July 08, 2017, 11:35:48 AM
I am glad to hear that you are up and about and feeling good about yourself!  We have missed you, too.  It's an adventure for sure!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 08, 2017, 11:50:25 AM
Hey Kath,
Been meaning to tell you how much I like your new avatar. Very pretty!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 08, 2017, 11:54:45 AM
Such fine news! Congratulations,  Monica.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Johanna M on July 08, 2017, 12:13:11 PM
Again, so glad for you in so many ways. Hope to have come as long as you in 2-3 years.
Johanna

Skickat från min LG-H815 via Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 08, 2017, 12:50:11 PM
  Oh My! she's getting back to some semblance of normalcy, as if that word could ever apply to moni moni (up down turn around come on pony) She still the gal we love only different, better. You can see it in her words and attitude.
  It was so good to see you in the hospital but I regret I could not see you now that are feeling more like your desired self.  I am glad you are healing okay and getting the medical attention and support you are. I pray you continue to improve and enjoy the new you everyday from here forward.
  Perhaps I will make another road trip and we can meet again on more comfortable conditions.

Loves ya Moni,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: DawnOday on July 08, 2017, 01:01:44 PM
Moni... You're a rock star. So glad for you. I'm hoping it is everything you expected. Your partner is lucky to have you.  Heal up soon, without complications. Love to hear the progress.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 08, 2017, 01:38:07 PM
You ladies want to see awesome? Just look in the mirror.  Yup that's what I'm saying (finger snap, head shake.) lol

I looked at road trip thread again. Don't know who that person was in the bed. Yuk. Am glad to be back on here. I suspect you will soon be sick of me since, when I get home, there will be 5 dilations instead of 3 I am doing now. So my mouth will be in it's usual position, open. Yackity yack, don't talk back!

I had a question that I never thought of before. I have had a few sexual thoughts the last few days. I am a little terrified to even think any thoughts like that. I feel a stirring down there and I am afraid I am gonna pop and all my girl parts are gonna fly out, watch springs are gonna fly off. I don't want to do anything physical, but if I have dirty, dirty girl thoughts, will I break at 11 days postop. (Never did understand why sexual thoughts were dirty, but I still always rolled in the mud before I had sex.)
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 08, 2017, 02:04:15 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 08, 2017, 01:38:07 PM
You ladies want to see awesome? Just look in the mirror.  Yup that's what I'm saying (finger snap, head shake.) lol

I looked at road trip thread again. Don't know who that person was in the bed. Yuk. Am glad to be back on here. I suspect you will soon be sick of me since, when I get home, there will be 5 dilations instead of 3 I am doing now. So my mouth will be in it's usual position, open. Yackity yack, don't talk back!

I had a question that I never thought of before. I have had a few sexual thoughts the last few days. I am a little terrified to even think any thoughts like that. I feel a stirring down there and I am afraid I am gonna pop and all my girl parts are gonna fly out, watch springs are gonna fly off. I don't want to do anything physical, but if I have dirty, dirty girl thoughts, will I break at 11 days postop. (Never did understand why sexual thoughts were dirty, but I still always rolled in the mud before I had sex
Moni


LOL .....You're so cute! Glad to find out that the "boy partz" weren't where your humor resided. You've been missed.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 08, 2017, 06:02:26 PM
Hey Moni

It made my morning reading the joy in your post about your first experience in front of the mirror...I am so happy for you (if not a little jealous ha ha) and am glad you are starting to feel better.

sending all my best positive energy the rest of your recovery

Hugs

Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 08, 2017, 07:00:35 PM
Hi Monica, I am glad you are feeling better.

Masturbation is best answered by Papillion. They know you and hw you can best handle it. At 3 months I was told to try it out at 6 months I was asked why I had not had intercourse.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 08, 2017, 08:37:45 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 08, 2017, 01:38:07 PM
I had a question that I never thought of before. I have had a few sexual thoughts the last few days. I am a little terrified to even think any thoughts like that. I feel a stirring down there and I am afraid I am gonna pop and all my girl parts are gonna fly out, watch springs are gonna fly off. I don't want to do anything physical, but if I have dirty, dirty girl thoughts, will I break at 11 days postop. (Never did understand why sexual thoughts were dirty, but I still always rolled in the mud before I had sex.)
Moni
I think it was day 5 post op that I woke up from a nap and was just about to orgasm. I immediately drew back, terrified of having a contraction around the packing and bolster dressing. The really weird thing was that I never have had in dream orgasms and erotic dreams have always been few and far between.

And I was certainly playing with myself the first week of dilation. You and I are close to lockstep. I was 8 days before I felt well enough to hobble a block for coffee and 9 days before I went out for a meal (Vietnamese on Portrero hill).

Hugs you, glad to hear you'll be around more :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on July 09, 2017, 06:30:14 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 08, 2017, 11:50:25 AM
Hey Kath,
Been meaning to tell you how much I like your new avatar. Very pretty!
Moni
Aw, aren't you the sweetest?  Thanks, hon.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 09, 2017, 09:27:58 AM
Quote from: jentay1367 on July 08, 2017, 02:04:15 PM

LOL .....You're so cute! Glad to find out that the "boy partz" weren't where your humor resided. You've been missed.
I always saw the boy partz as a joke, and no the funny bone was not in that thing. If you want to see something funny though, I could show you my black and blue and purple butt that I had the pleasure to see for the first time today. It looks like  a Baltimore Ravens rally gone horribly wrong. Now I see why I walk so funny.

I am no where near masturbation thoughts, oh no! (Head in hands, cringing) I am only thinking of not hurting myself with mental imagery. I have gotten kissed by guys twice in the last two weeks though. Well, let me splain that. Before surgery my brother hugged and kissed me, something he never did to his brother. A sign of true acceptance, yea!!!!
The other time was yesterday. We were sitting outside the motel we are staying at, and these two guys came up who had earlier talked to my family. I had been asleep. One guy came up to shake my hand and proceeded to kiss my hand. I was like, wow that was something new. My partner was standing there laughing at me. They then tried to get us to go to the gay bar across the street. So, I really don't know if there is anything to take from that experience. lol  One thing though, someone taking my hand like that gave me just an inkling of what women many times deal with when men manipulate a situation  physically past something the woman has in mind. It was different.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 09, 2017, 10:10:18 AM
Happy Moni.

Hugs.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 10, 2017, 08:42:02 AM
What up today hon? My news, this week sitting has become more comfortable. The bit that's still visibly healing is my clitoris & hood which remains pretty sore as well. I'm going to check with Wittenberg this week on if it's ok to start working the green dilator yet - I'll be 3 months dilating with blue next week.

Amazing how time flies and yet some things come back oh so slowly. About 5 days post op I developed a huge hematoma in lower abdomen, an area 7-8" across and 3 high that was all black & blue. It's still slightly visibly distended.

Anyhow, hugs again, good luck with your long drive (today? tomorrow?).
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 11, 2017, 02:52:45 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on July 10, 2017, 08:42:02 AM
What up today hon? My news, this week sitting has become more comfortable. The bit that's still visibly healing is my clitoris & hood which remains pretty sore as well. I'm going to check with Wittenberg this week on if it's ok to start working the green dilator yet - I'll be 3 months dilating with blue next week.

Amazing how time flies and yet some things come back oh so slowly. About 5 days post op I developed a huge hematoma in lower abdomen, an area 7-8" across and 3 high that was all black & blue. It's still slightly visibly distended.

Anyhow, hugs again, good luck with your long drive (today? tomorrow?).
Hi Sadie! I am finally back home, said good bye to Paul and Suki, and am having a quiet day trying to get caught up with writing folks. I am two  weeks post op today. I must have overdid things with the ride home and going out to eat. The donut was not much help and I got nauseous waiting for food and was pretty uncomfortable. I went and layed  out in the car so I didn't pass out. The energy level is still way down but spirits are high. Am now dilating at 5 times a day for half hour each. Doc says I have 5 inch depth. She said it looked good inside with just a little black skin near the opening. I should go up to blue next week. Half and half she said. Hope this isn't TMI but she had me shower and use a finger with soap to clean it out a bit. Still supposed to wear compression underwear. The pad rubbing the legs has caused some sore spots on my legs. I am to walk some tonight. Just a bit. I figured I would push the wheelchair I have until tired then drift home. lol
I know of one nervous person reading this, knowing they are next. I would like to say that some times were tough. I didn't like the 2 day no eating pre op. I didn't like the nausea caused by the pain pills. (I only threw up once, and once I got away from pain and nausea pills, I felt much better. I am taking no pain meds now) I am still not liking sleeping on my back. The thing is, all this stuff was doable if a little uncomfortable. I met some great cis and trans people in the recovery house. I had Bill and Rob serving me breakfast in bed every day. It is an experience I will cherish the rest of my life. I started this thread saying how lucky I felt and that feeling hasn't changed. I don't have a full concept yet of what I have gained, but I have a deep appreciation for no longer having that pesky dog in the pants. (Two seconds of silence for Clyde.) I do already feel different in public. I don't feel like I am hiding anything any more. It is so different.
I gotta go for now. Love to all!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on July 11, 2017, 03:58:51 PM
Well done , glad your getting back to fighting strength and keeping everyone on there toes. Lets hope the bruising goes down quickly and may your donut stay inflated!!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 11, 2017, 05:14:37 PM
Great news! Different docs have such different protocols post op, the brownstein Crane docs use 3x daily for only 10 minutes, as I mostly enjoy dilation I just go longer.

I'm really sorry I didn't get this tip to you pre-op, I know Rachel relayed it to you late in the game. Nausea has been a huge problem for me, both coming out of anesthesia and from any codeine type painkiller. I told my surgeon ahead of time and she prescribed this:

Ondansetron trade name Zofran, it's an anti nausea drug that used to be only used for chemotherapy and recently went generic. Compared to my 2 prior surgeries involving general anesthesia, that element was a cakewalk, so tip for others there.

I can totes relate to overdoing it, we're caught between knowing that being active will help recovery but clearly not enough rest is just as bad. My latest overdoing? (Hope this isn't a TMI), I wore a thong all day today :-). Dinner with friends and feeling kinda nauseous? That was me on Cinco de Mayo. Long drives? Definitely not fun for a while yet.

Hugs, so glad you're back home!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 11, 2017, 08:45:58 PM
Quote from: davina61 on July 11, 2017, 03:58:51 PM
Well done , glad your getting back to fighting strength and keeping everyone on there toes. Lets hope the bruising goes down quickly and may your donut stay inflated!!!

Davina, that sounds like an awesome British saying, "May your donut always stay inflated, Gov'ner!" lol

Sadie,
Can't imagine a thong. No no no. I am wondering about one thing. On one side, my incision is open about an inch. Don't remember it being that big at her office. She indicated it would close up on its own but it worries me a bit. Any thoughts?
I think I ended up with Zofran at one point.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 11, 2017, 08:56:58 PM
Yep I had an inch long separation of the stitches on my lest side incision, it took time to heal but ultimately no longer than everything else. It's still not quite closed but has improved a ton in the last week, nearly there.

I got a ton of photos, every step of healing, just lmk if you want them.

Bestest hon

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 11, 2017, 09:15:37 PM
Thanks Sadie,
   Don't like to bother doctors office with dumb stuff.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on July 12, 2017, 01:12:57 PM
Thanks to both of you for this dialogue.  Its now filed under "2 weeks" in my Post Op file so I can look and compare notes when I'm laying there 5 weeks overthinking just about everything except the upcoming full Eclipse in the Midwest I'll be missing . . .  ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 12, 2017, 04:08:38 PM
Quote from: Gail20 on July 12, 2017, 01:12:57 PM
Thanks to both of you for this dialogue.  Its now filed under "2 weeks" in my Post Op file so I can look and compare notes when I'm laying there 5 weeks overthinking just about everything except the upcoming full Eclipse in the Midwest I'll be missing . . .  ;)

Hi Gail,
   I can't speak for anyone but myself, but I will offer you a few of my thoughts. I hope if you or anyone else is afraid of the surgery, I would urge you too make room for the positive thoughts as well. If you are this far, Gail, your decision making is over. Be at peace with the choice, enjoy the experience. I know I had some hard times and I have a ways to go, but I would have (in my mind) been a fool not to appreciate that this was a transformative moment of my life. I look back on it fondly. The thoughts of pain leave very quickly. I am glad I focused, savored the moment. I am enjoying, as much as possible, things as they unfold. I don't even mind peeing all over myself while the plumbing figures itself out down there. One thing about doing this when you are older. You have done the male thing to death. Why would I not thoroughly enjoy this new world opening up before my eyes. Why lament the male things that I did over and over that I mostly grew to despise. The water is warm Hon, come on in.
   I guess I took your over thinking comment and ran with it. Sorry if I got your feelings wrong. I have not always been a positive person and I need a reminder sometimes. For this experience, I honestly think it wasn't so bad because of the attitude I chose. You know, like convincing yourself it will be bad and then proceeding to make it that way in a self fulfilling prophecy type deal. Maybe the opposite can happen too.
   Am I right that you will go with Dr. Bluebond Langner? I met with her before she moved to NY. She is an awesome person, very caring. You go in August? Where is recovery? Well good luck.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 12, 2017, 04:20:00 PM
Hi Monica,

Take a pic of the stitch opening and send it to Papillion  for review. They are awesome and review picks often. At the pre-op desk today they were looking at patient pics and discussing. I could not hear the specific. Just that pics are the way to get answers of questions.

5 dilations a day is daunting but needed. It is the time you can gain the most in depth. You also get to know your vagina by looking at it in the mirror and feeling the dilators penetrate.

You are a pretty tough woman and had to deal with a lot of difficulties, you rock. Also your support rocks too.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 12, 2017, 04:47:06 PM
Thanks Hon, you are awesome! (And you have BOOBS) yea. :) ;D ???
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 12, 2017, 04:56:19 PM
I do have a question on dilation. It goes in easily with the smallest (purple). It bottoms out with basically 2 dots out and 1 dot at the opening.  They say 5 inches. If you do the pressure as she says, can you actually gain depth or is it more of a maintaining depth type thing. I push enough that it feels slightly uncomfortable but not painful. I feel pushing harder would only cause issues.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 12, 2017, 05:36:51 PM
Monica it's my understanding that dilating too large diameter too fast is a common cause of granulation I can't imagine that pushing too deep too fast couldn't also cause granulation. So yeah I would not be doing it that's just my two cents and what I've read, no actual experience hugs
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on July 12, 2017, 06:58:55 PM
Even now when I first insert the dilator, it doesn't go all the way to full depth. It now takes me a minute or two for the dilator to go all the way to full depth. The best way to do this is by maintaining a constant pressure of around 4 pounds on the dilator throughout the entire session. It shouldn't hurt though at this stage of the game, there may be some discomfort. Excessive force risks opening up a spot where something is healing and you might start bleeding again. This is why sex isn't permitted in the first 3 months as it take a while for everything to heal properly.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 12, 2017, 07:20:48 PM
Hi Monica,

Did you have them demonstrate hand on hand them to you the force to use.

If you did not ask them to demonstrate the force to be used then ask them what pound force to use then get rice or something else to weigh that weight to use as a calibrated dilation force reference.

Dina's 4 pound force sounds about right. I gained 1.25 inches.

I quickly went to the larger dilators, with Papillion's direction. 30 minutes is the time. When you have 3 dilators it is 10 minutes per dilator. 4 dilators was 8 minutes per dilator. 3 months I dilated 3 time per day. At 6 months 1 dilation per day with purple for 5 minutes and orange for 25 minutes.

I had an issue that eventually required prescription hydrocortisone. At a point the scars started to contract and the prescription hydrocortisone relaxed the scars. If it did not work then estrogen cream would have been prescribed, it was not needed. The point when the scars, and I have ample, contracted I had tears in my eyes when I dilated; I did not miss a dilation. I cried and did controlled deep breathing.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 12, 2017, 08:57:05 PM
I am very invested in avoiding issues rather then causing them and having to repair them. I was told a pressure like it takes to push open a door. I will do this, but I don't see it changing depth at all. Also my little walk today has brought about swelling down there. I didn't think I went that far, but I will back off that and be more conservative. Oh, the hot flashes are killing me. I go from shivering to steaming constantly most of the day. Wow!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 13, 2017, 02:01:16 AM
Moni, I should also say I've lost about an inch of depth somewhere along the way but half of that may have been swelling. Pressing relatively hard now doesn't hurt in the least and depth increases by up to 1/2 inch during dilation -- I'm given to just leaving it in place a while as I actually enjoy dilating when I'm not so tired that I can't keep my eyes open. Whether I'm slowly regaining some depth will be seen. I find it easiest to keep pressure going by pulling on a pair of panties over the dilator and tight enough to get the pressure I want, looks funny but works.

Fore swelling of my labia was caused simply by being vertical, whether on my feet or sitting and I attributed it to blood pressure. Out to about week 6 time on my feet or seated caused this and when working in the glass shop I would take every opportunity to lay down for a few moments. This caused some consternation with my coworkers and I had to spend some time reassuring them it was simply a matter of comfort.

YMMV, for me, time standing, walking or seated all caused equal pain down there and so I adopted my policy that o was either actively resting horizontal or actively getting stuff done / walking.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 13, 2017, 02:33:06 AM
Moni,

Hi! Wow, congratulations! I totally missed your little project. Work had me off for over a month and am just catching up with things. I had completely forgotten you had this coming(sorry).

Sorry to see you have had some little bumps but I think that is pretty common. I have only read the first page then jumped here. I am going to go back and read through it all.

Take care of yourself.

With warmth,

Joanna
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 13, 2017, 08:30:36 AM
Monica, I think you are close to when you can take E again, It will be so much better when you can go back on E. I had a boob growth spirt when I went back on E. But I gained some weight too. Now you need calories (good calories) to heal. This is not the time to worry bout a few pounds. There will be time to diet later.

Dilating can become very boring so watch or do something when dilating. When I dilated at work I did work e-mails. When at home I did Face book. I never post on FB but reply to a lot of people's posts.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 13, 2017, 12:15:12 PM
Hi Joanna I was wondering where you were Girl. :) That pesky work thing can sure get in the way sometimes. Hope otherwise you are doing well.
Sadie, I seem to have maintained depth so far. I am at status quo. Supposed to do the five times a day for a week before going up to blue. Sometimes I wonder if McGinn says 5  times a day because she thinks most folks will cheat n do less. Did this occur to you Rachel? I am a rule follower, so I will try to stick to it. Love the panty hold in place idea. I will take exercise slow as I did swell a bit yesterday. Rachel I started with 1 pill of E yesterday. I will double that today. The hot flashes are too much. I wrote a friend about my day to day, at what, 16 days postop. I will copy it here for reference for anyone looking forward to the surgery. Here goes. Oh sorry one sexual reference so if you are younger than 35 get parental permission 
before reading. :)
I seem to have not relearned all bladder control yet so as soon as I feel anything I have 2 minutes to get to toilet. This means multiple  wake up times at night. By the time I get back to bed, I shiver for about 3 to 5 minutes. (could be from my blood loss during surgery)  Often this is followed by a 'walk on the surface of the sun' hot flash. I alternate all day between hot flash and needing a blanket. No fever. It is from hormones. I wake up and dilate. I do that every 3 hours but it seems more like every hour if you try to do anything. A shower once a day. It is weird still because I have a one inch open wound down there for drainage and I fear getting water in it. I am also supposed to soap up a finger and clean the vagina as well as I can. Energy, well I get brief bursts but half way through it, I poop out. Sitting is hard. 20 minutes max usually. I am glad we bought the minivan as I can lay back enough to make it comfy. I am to eat like crazy. I probably lost 10 pounds before surgery and during early recovery but it is all back. I stay busy talking to friends and haven't watched much TV. So that is my life now. Pretty awesome if you ask me. Oh, I also get lightening strikes  from the nerves connecting down below. It makes you jump sometimes. It is a good sign though. I look forward to exploring down there. You know the feeling of going over a bump while in the back seat. Like your junk ends up in your throat. Well if someone gets close to toughing my abdomen I get that feeling. It is just so sensitive all over down there. I have had some erotic thoughts since surgery. It is weird because I feel what feels like a mini erection down there. I guess I thought that would not feel that way. I am sitting back and accepting it all. As crazy as I was before surgery, I am calm and peaceful now. Well, still crazy to be honest. Doubt they will ever cure my silliness. I will say that so far no signs of dysphoria. Is that too good to be true? In 60 years I have had my share of it. I am only asking for a quick break from it for, say..., the next 60 years.
SillyMoni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on July 13, 2017, 01:48:23 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 12, 2017, 04:08:38 PM
  I guess I took your over thinking comment and ran with it. Sorry if I got your feelings wrong. I have not always been a positive person and I need a reminder sometimes. For this experience, I honestly think it wasn't so bad because of the attitude I chose. You know, like convincing yourself it will be bad and then proceeding to make it that way in a self fulfilling prophecy type deal. Maybe the opposite can happen too.
   Am I right that you will go with Dr. Bluebond Langner? I met with her before she moved to NY. She is an awesome person, very caring. You go in August? Where is recovery? Well good luck.
Moni

Hi Moni,

I was not very clear and there was a missing word. . . sorry . . .  I meant in my post that I can see myself lying there 5 weeks from now in recovery looking down at myself and "overthinking" the results as in, "oh my, whats this" or "whats that", "I can't believe how swollen I am", "Is this normal" What did Moni say that time", "what did Sadie say about this?  I also know what my answer to my own questioning will be, "calm down, enjoy the process, in a couple months regardless what happens none of this will matter, it will be all OK. . . . and now, added to this will be . . .remember Moni's calming post . . .

Yes, Dr Bluebond-Langer moved up from Maryland and is now at NYU heading up their new TG surgery program. My surgery is August 11th, and after a week in the hospital which she requires, I'll be going down to Princeton where a friend has an Aunt who has opened her home up to my friend and I. I'll be there thru the 29th (my last scheduled followup appt wtih Dr BL) I know these last 4 or 5 weeks are going to go by in a flash. . . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 13, 2017, 05:37:18 PM
Gail, I took your meaning, you're gonna be fine :-). I was referring to Ruby Aliza's posts during my healing and recovery, she went to the same practice I did, Dr Satterwhite just about a year before me.

Moni, I'm pretty good with following orders, my 2-dilation days early on all involved sleeping through the appointed time. Since I got back to work, some days I get home and I'm just so tired I forget -- and there is no practical place at work :-(. At this point I'm definitely not losing any depth and go to twice daily in another week anyway.

My doc let me back on HRT at 8 days but I still had lots of temp regulation problems for the first month or so. Early on I used a combination of chux and towels under the sheets to minimize soaking the mattress.

Can I say I really don't miss that, also don't miss needing chux for dilating!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 13, 2017, 07:10:15 PM
Hi Monica, no the 5 dilations are needed. At some point the scars will contract and dilation is what keeps the size you have. All doctors have different rules. I followed Dr. McGinn's schedule and am glad I did.

I thought the dilations were excessive then the scar contraction hit and I was in pain. If I had less dilations I do not know what would have happened.

I am glad you are back on E. I never had a hot flash but got really depressed and e helped.

Look out for post-op depression. You just had life changing surgery and life will catch up to you. You put your body through the ringer and went off E for a month and had major surgery. When and if depression hits remember to do things to raise your spirits. Aroma therapy and mindfulness work wonders.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on July 13, 2017, 07:29:05 PM
I've been on Estrogen for 17 years!  I'm somehow missing the rationale for us stopping Estrogen. My surgeon wants me to stop 4 weeks in advance. . . Tomorrow!!!

Cis Women cant stop their Estrogen just because they're having major surgery. My doctors, who have treated lots and lots of TG people for almost 20 years, say they don't see why I should have to stop Estrogen at all.  My therapist is concerned about the psychological impact . . . I don't get it. . . . :(
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 13, 2017, 10:29:10 PM
The simple answer of course is fear of blood clots and maybe lack of research on trans folks. I was told to expect crazy emotions post surgery n I had a trial run last year with FFS surgery. I think I have some good circumstances to cope.

Gail, you are gonna 'kick butt and take names.' We all know nothing is ever perfect but we are realizing a dream and that is the main thing to focus on. If need be revisions can be done. Worry can only take away from the experience I think.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 14, 2017, 06:25:01 AM
Gail, estrogen taken orally has a significant effect on likelihood of throwing a blood clot and of course surgeons are going to want to eliminate all possible risks (liability issues are going to dictate this).

Being conservative creatures, even if you take your estrogen by injection or transdermal patches - which are functionally equivalent to a natal females - they still want you to discontinue. And because the release is delayed with injection, in my case the doc had me stop a month in advance of surgery, would have been 2 weeks if I took pills.

It's only a month and honestly post-op you're gonna have other stuff on your mind. Yes that month sucked for me, the moreso because I had a huge amount of work and absence of HRT sure doesn't help my coping skills. Flip side for me was I dealt with it - I was effective, scheduled well and stayed organized. Those wouldn't normally be my strong points and that I managed sure told me how motivated I was to get to Dr Wittenberg's door on April 26 :-).

And post-op, I have to say, HRT was pretty low on my list ... not that I didn't think about it and the peace of mind and return of my more emotional self was truly welcome but the day I was permitted was also the day we had to take a 25 mile Uber trip for the first post op appointment and. I was so tired, I didn't get to doing my injection until the next day.

Hugs &c

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on July 14, 2017, 01:25:24 PM
Thank you both. I know you're correct.

Yesterday after I posted here I looked it up and there was so much about HRT's association with higher blood clotting I was surprised my doctors were basically unconcerned. . . oh well . . .as you say there will soon be other more important issues and it will all be OK in the end. . . :)

Thanks again for the support

Gail
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 14, 2017, 06:06:36 PM
Hi all,
   Hey Gail I hope you tell us of your journey when the time is here. Okay?

   I may have figured something out that was bothering me. When I went off HRT for a longer time last year for FFS I just started to get the return of the male smell. It wasn't too bad, but HRT made it go away again. This time, I am off meds less time, and the scent is stronger. Yuk! Well it just occurred to me that this time I am getting really bad hot flashes. I guess this has brought on the stinky underarms. Come on E, kick in. I loved the fact that I could perspire some and it smelled like daisies. Well, it didn't smell like guy anyway. lol
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 14, 2017, 06:26:29 PM
I guess I am going to have an issue since I have an implant. That could be a real issue as they only get replaced every 6 months...I do not want to be taking oral Oestrogen for 6 months...

I will add that to my list of questions for next months appointment
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 14, 2017, 08:26:14 PM
Dr. McGinn lets us stay on spiro until 2 days prior to the GCS procedure. Then post-op our T is really low to none. For FFS (Spiegel) I was off E and spiro 2 weeks before and 1 week after. He would have let me back on E and spiro sooner but he was concerned about the plane flight and pressure changes and not being able to move around in the cabin.

Monica, you state 2 more operations this year. One for eye, who are you thinking of going to?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 14, 2017, 10:32:26 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on July 14, 2017, 08:26:14 PM
Dr. McGinn lets us stay on spiro until 2 days prior to the GCS procedure. Then post-op our T is really low to none. For FFS (Spiegel) I was off E and spiro 2 weeks before and 1 week after. He would have let me back on E and spiro sooner but he was concerned about the plane flight and pressure changes and not being able to move around in the cabin.

Monica, you state 2 more operations this year. One for eye, who are you thinking of going to?
I am going to a surgeon who was recommended to me by Dr. Bluebond-Langner (who is now at NYU). His  name is Dr. Papel and he specializes in facial surgery especially the nose. He is to remove this blob under my eye caused by the FFS. Later he will do the nose. The eye will be done with a local only. I am hopeful  this mess can be fixed.
My FFS surgeon had me off E and Spiro for 6 weeks. 4 weeks before n 2 after.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 15, 2017, 12:48:48 AM
Indeed. Pit scent stayed annoyingly strong until about 7 weeks post op and if healing takes a turn for the worse my niffiness shifts towards stronger.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: debrferguson on July 15, 2017, 01:02:44 AM
Hi Moni!
I'm so fortunate ti have gone through gcs the same time as you and to have recovered at Gaia House with you! You are an impressive and strong woman! The only thing that was odd at all was knowing why you were there and not even being able to imagine you as anyone other than beautiful Moni! I hope our paths cross again someday soon!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 15, 2017, 02:25:52 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 14, 2017, 10:32:26 PM
I am going to a surgeon who was recommended to me by Dr. Bluebond-Langner (who is now at NYU). His  name is Dr. Papel and he specializes in facial surgery especially the nose. He is to remove this blob under my eye caused by the FFS. Later he will do the nose. The eye will be done with a local only. I am hopeful  this mess can be fixed.
My FFS surgeon had me off E and Spiro for 6 weeks. 4 weeks before n 2 after.
Moni

What ??? Haven't you had enough trimming and tucking for a while?  let it heal woman, let it heal... Take a break for crying out loud.


Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on July 15, 2017, 07:20:25 AM
Quote from: Gail20 on July 13, 2017, 07:29:05 PM
I've been on Estrogen for 17 years!  I'm somehow missing the rationale for us stopping Estrogen. My surgeon wants me to stop 4 weeks in advance. . . Tomorrow!!!

Cis Women cant stop their Estrogen just because they're having major surgery. My doctors, who have treated lots and lots of TG people for almost 20 years, say they don't see why I should have to stop Estrogen at all.  My therapist is concerned about the psychological impact . . . I don't get it. . . . :(

The policy is from outdated clinical data, having mostly to do with oral contraceptives and increased venous thromboembolism (VTE).  The chief culprit was ethinyl estradiol.  This is almost never prescribed anymore.  Still, it was found that any oral estrogen will raise the risk of VTE.

"Oral but not transdermal ERT is associated with risk of VTE in postmenopausal women. These data suggest that transdermal ERT might be safer than oral ERT with respect to thrombotic risk."

Differential association of oral and transdermal oestrogen replacement therapy with venous thromboembolism risk 
Lancet 2003 362: 428–32

If you are taking parenteral estradiol (injections or implant) or transdermal or sublingual estradiol, there is no good pharmacological reason to stop estradiol prior to surgery.  It is the effect of liver metabolism that is correlated with activated C-protein resistance, which only happens with oral hormone administration.

Quote from: Rachel Lynn on July 14, 2017, 08:26:14 PM
Dr. McGinn lets us stay on spiro until 2 days prior to the GCS procedure. Then post-op our T is really low to none.

This only makes matters worse.  If you have low levels of both T and E, you are basically menopausal. I already know what that feels like.

I plan to switch from sublingual estradiol about a week before and go back to transdermal. Sublingual absorption also avoids first-pass liver metabolism, but it's hard not to swallow some. I never got good absorption using patches, but it's better than nothing.

"Oral estrogens increase the risk of VTE especially during the first year of treatment and past users revert to a similar risk as women who have never used them. There is now growing evidence that VTE risk among HT users strongly depends on the route of administration. Indeed, transdermal estrogens, unlike oral estrogens, are not associated with an increased VTE risk and biological data support this difference between oral and transdermal estrogens."

Hormone therapy and risk of venous thromboembolism among postmenopausal women
Maturitas. 2015 Nov;82(3):304-7. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2015.06.040.

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Cindy on July 15, 2017, 08:04:15 AM
Quote from: ElizabethK on July 14, 2017, 06:26:29 PM
I guess I am going to have an issue since I have an implant. That could be a real issue as they only get replaced every 6 months...I do not want to be taking oral Oestrogen for 6 months...

I will add that to my list of questions for next months appointment

Sorry Liz but the surgeon you are thinking of waits until the implant is running down and monitors the E levels.

@Maybebaby56, I do not believe that the scientific literature covers transgender females, oestrogen and venous thrombosis risk. There are on occasion posts suggesting that the physiology of transgender females to cis females in regard to oestrogen effect is equivalent but as far as I am aware there has never been a comparative study.  For a surgeon to ignore risk for no reason beyond discomfort would be unethical. That said and just to complicate matters, when I had my larynx removed recently, which I think counts as major surgery, no one worried about my oestrogen levels. However all my documents listed my gender as female so when my pre surgery check asked what drugs I was on and I mentioned E that was just taken as normal post-menopausal female HRT management, noted and ignored.
I think the point that surgeons are concerned with E and surgery is risk management, if you can possibly reduce risk you do so.

Sorry for the thread hijack :-*
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 15, 2017, 08:16:11 AM
Terri, I agree with you on the science and I pushed back on my surgeon but she wouldn't OK me even at my miniscule im dosage.

That creates the problem that they're going to ask (like a dozen times) what meds I'm taking and whether I've stopped E and I'd have to dissimulate or my doc would cancel. The thing is, I'm really unable to be anything but truthful on important stuff (small stuff too) even when the penalty for it is pretty high. Even the more so when I'm completely in love with my surgeon and she's doing such a big thing for me.

Not saying don't go with your plan, I thought about it myself, I just couldn't.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on July 15, 2017, 08:56:54 AM
Quote from: Cindy on July 15, 2017, 08:04:15 AM
@Maybebaby56, I do not believe that the scientific literature covers transgender females, oestrogen and venous thrombosis risk. There are on occasion posts suggesting that the physiology of transgender females to cis females in regard to oestrogen effect is equivalent but as far as I am aware there has never been a comparative study.  For a surgeon to ignore risk for no reason beyond discomfort would be unethical. That said and just to complicate matters, when I had my larynx removed recently, which I think counts as major surgery, no one worried about my oestrogen levels. However all my documents listed my gender as female so when my pre surgery check asked what drugs I was on and I mentioned E that was just taken as normal post-menopausal female HRT management, noted and ignored.
I think the point that surgeons are concerned with E and surgery is risk management, if you can possibly reduce risk you do so.

Sorry for the thread hijack :-*

Cindy,

I certainly understand your point, especially the part about surgeons wanting to reduce risk (and liability).  But risk management is not risk elimination, it is about risk vs benefit (i.e. cost of risk mitigation), and that can be very squishy to quantify.

"Postoperative venous thrombosis does occur in transgender women  who undergo elective surgery, including gender affirming surgery [23], leading some authors to suggest holding hormonal therapy for 2 weeks prior to elective surgery and resuming once mobility is regained [18,36]. No prospective data exists to confirm the benefit of this recommendation, although similar recommendations have been suggested for women receiving postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy."

Thrombotic issues in transgender medicine: A review
Am. J. Hematol. 92:204–208, 2017

Quote from: SadieBlake on July 15, 2017, 08:16:11 AM
Terri, I agree with you on the science and I pushed back on my surgeon but she wouldn't OK me even at my miniscule im dosage.

That creates the problem that they're going to ask (like a dozen times) what meds I'm taking and whether I've stopped E and I'd have to dissimulate or my doc would cancel. The thing is, I'm really unable to be anything but truthful on important stuff (small stuff too) even when the penalty for it is pretty high. Even the more so when I'm completely in love with my surgeon and she's doing such a big thing for me.

Not saying don't go with your plan, I thought about it myself, I just couldn't.

Yup, it's a personal decision.  Life is risky.  The lowest risk option is not to have the surgery at all.  This is not acceptable to me.  I am willing to accept the risks. On having hot flashes, insomnia, and irritability on top of pre-op stress well that's a finer line. The risk is very low, but the consequences can be catastrophic.  I think stopping sublingual estradiol a week or two before surgery and switching to patches is an acceptable compromise, but that is my decision. 

Oral hormones increase the risk of VTE by 160%, from 0.7 per 1000 cases to 1.1 per thousand cases (in women over 50).  A lot of transgender women take oral hormones anyway, and would never consider giving them up, even given the data.

But I am derailing this thread.  I will stop now.  Sorry, Moni!

~Terri

Edit: Sadie PM'd me and made the excellent point that post-op nmenopausal symptoms will be mitigated by pain meds. The real problem for me will be dealing with pre-op stress. Fortunately Moni had a long chat with me, and talked me off the ledge. I think I my real problem is I'm stubborn. :D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on July 15, 2017, 10:51:06 AM
Quote from: SadieBlake on July 15, 2017, 08:16:11 AM
Terri, I agree with you on the science and I pushed back on my surgeon but she wouldn't OK me even at my miniscule im dosage.

Yes, every surgeon is different.  From Dr. Marci Bowers' site on pre-op instructions:

Reduce your estrogen dosage (to 2 mg Estradiol or 0.625mg Premarin) two weeks prior to surgery. At the same time, stop Progesterone, Anti-androgens, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, herbal supplements, blood thinners.

McGinn says stop estrogens completely but you can keep taking spiro.

I really need to shut up about this. I know what Moni would tell me, "Dr. McGinn is your surgeon, not Bowers.  Listen to what your doctor recommends."  Moni is a good girl.  I am a problem child.

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 15, 2017, 11:41:17 AM
Quote from: debrferguson on July 15, 2017, 01:02:44 AM
Hi Moni!
I'm so fortunate ti have gone through gcs the same time as you and to have recovered at Gaia House with you! You are an impressive and strong woman! The only thing that was odd at all was knowing why you were there and not even being able to imagine you as anyone other than beautiful Moni! I hope our paths cross again someday soon!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Well hi Debbie! You are so sweet. We had a great group didn't we? It was a lot of fun when you gals came and partied in the basement when I couldn't climb up two flights to see you guys. I really enjoyed talking to you, getting to know you. I think of you as the strong, impressive one to be honest, and yes beautiful. Do me a favor though, don't ruin my imagine saying nice stuff. My reputation on here is built around me being a mean, rotten, old, wise a**. lol I hope we do continue to keep up with each other.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 15, 2017, 11:52:37 AM
Wow, mention hormones and surgery around this group and step back Jack. lol

Quote from: Maybebaby56 on July 15, 2017, 10:51:06 AM

I really need to shut up about this. I know what Moni would tell me, "Dr. McGinn is your surgeon, not Bowers.  Listen to what your doctor recommends."  Moni is a good girl.  I am a problem child.

~Terri

Terri, don't misquote me, Girl. What I told you was "Try your absolute best to prepare, then say 'F*ck It' to anything past that." Too much stressing will only make you feel worse. Don't make me come to your hospital bed and knock sense into you, 'problem child.' Hehe
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 15, 2017, 12:11:02 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 15, 2017, 11:52:37 AM
Don't make me come to your hospital bed and knock sense into you, 'problem child.' Hehe
Moni

  What's this?  You ask me to drive all that way across country just to knock some common sense into your head and you don't want to got down the street to help Terri out?  WELL! I never!

  Just see if I come to your aid again...

  Hugs,
     Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 15, 2017, 12:25:57 PM
Quote from: Laurie on July 15, 2017, 12:11:02 PM
  What's this?  You ask me to drive all that way across country just to knock some common sense into your head and you don't want to got down the street to help Terri out?  WELL! I never!

  Just see if I come to your aid again...

  Hugs,
     Laurie

The gloves are off already Laurie? Let's get this straight I will be there if she wants me there. Only waiting for her okay.
How bout them apples? lol
Moni
And the concussion you gave me was a big help. Now who am I again?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 15, 2017, 12:33:01 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 15, 2017, 12:25:57 PM
The gloves are off already Laurie? Let's get this straight I will be there if she wants me there. Only waiting for her okay.
How bout them apples? lol
Moni
And the concussion you gave me was a big help. Now who am I again?

  Apples are good but visits in support of friends or whatevers are better.

  As for who you are.. I'm not sure, you've changed. more female I think. You kinda sound like the moani I knew but in the emaciated shape I saw you in ... well it's hard to tell.

  Loves ya anyway I guess.

Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 16, 2017, 03:01:19 PM
Laurie, is this any better? I took this at the motel during a brief moment of standing. It is one of my first Clydeless  pictures. Not sure what you mean by me changing. I'm still your worst nightmare.

I'm two days shy of three weeks post-op. The bruising is better. The open wound on the stitch line is working on closing. At the bottom of the vagina, it appears a little yellowish/ whiteish. Inside it looks black in places. She told me that further in it looked nice, no black. I assume the black will shed at some point. Can't see Clyde's little sister yet. It seems to be less swollen generally. Only real pain is from rub marks on legs from pads. Oh, the nerves make themselves known, that is for sure. I have never heard anyone speak of the stitch in the center of the abdomen. It makes the area above the mons look like it has a dimple. I asked about this. She said that it is a stitch to reduce tension at the vagina and that it would dissolve. Hot flashes? We have plenty in stock still, so don't wait til the last minute to buy yours. No shipping charge. I sometimes wonder how obvious the scars in the abdominal area will be. Don't know if massage will help them be less obvious at some point. Energy level is still on the low side and sleep is hard with getting up to pee a lot. They want u drinking plenty of water. I think that is it for now.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on July 16, 2017, 03:05:29 PM
Wow, Moni.  You look great!  The best I have ever seen you.  Surgery seems to have changed more than your private parts!

With kindness,

Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 16, 2017, 03:20:39 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 16, 2017, 03:01:19 PM
Laurie, is this any better? I took this at the motel during a brief moment of standing. It is one of my first Clydeless  pictures. Not sure what you mean by me changing. I'm still your worst nightmare.

I'm two days shy of three weeks post-op. The bruising is better. The open wound on the stitch line is working on closing. At the bottom of the vagina, it appears a little yellowish/ whiteish. Inside it looks black in places. She told me that further in it looked nice, no black. I assume the black will shed at some point. Can't see Clyde's little sister yet. It seems to be less swollen generally. Only real pain is from rub marks on legs from pads. Oh, the nerves make themselves known, that is for sure. I have never heard anyone speak of the stitch in the center of the abdomen. It makes the area above the mons look like it has a dimple. I asked about this. She said that it is a stitch to reduce tension at the vagina and that it would dissolve. Hot flashes? We have plenty in stock still, so don't wait til the last minute to buy yours. No shipping charge. I sometimes wonder how obvious the scars in the abdominal area will be. Don't know if massage will help them be less obvious at some point. Energy level is still on the low side and sleep is hard with getting up to pee a lot. They want u drinking plenty of water. I think that is it for now.
Moni

So many words...  see what I mean  you picture  shows you've changed even Terri agrees with me.  Yeah yeah yeah it looks good.. Happy with your moaning now?

Worst nightmare? Yawn  ::) ::) keep eating your wheaties girl. You'll need them.

As for the rest... Stop your whining and put your big girl panties on.

sheesh She's such a whoose   ::) ::)

  Hugs,
    Laurie

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 16, 2017, 03:28:40 PM
Mom, Laurie's picking on me!

Thanks Terri, you are nice! (Tongue sticking out toward west coast)

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: EmmaLoo on July 16, 2017, 03:30:14 PM
Hi Moni,

Congratulations on this life-changing milestone. It might be a slightly rough go for a few months, but you'll get through it like everyone else. The changes you'll see from the week one to week 12 will blow you away. Be patient and don't underestimate them.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 16, 2017, 04:02:01 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 16, 2017, 03:28:40 PM
Mom, Laurie's picking on me!

Thanks Terri, you are nice! (Tongue sticking out toward west coast)

Moni

  Hey now, I said the picture looked nice, didn't I?

Sheesh there's no pleasing That WOMAN.  ::)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on July 16, 2017, 05:10:55 PM
Moni, you look good in that pic!  Glad to hear that your recovery is going well.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 16, 2017, 05:31:14 PM
Moni,I know not this stitch you speak of, a mcginn thing, clearly.

By scars, you mean the ones to either side of the mons and labia? I suspect mine will be visible a long time. However there are scar remedies that are really good these days.

Hugs and hugs and hugs! Love the new photo! I'm about 10 minutes from home, tired sore and hungry, the latter is about to be addressed with a bowl of chili :-) a beer (my 5th in 3 months) will help with the soreness. Gonna try to stay awake for game of thrones ... That may not happen.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: coldHeart on July 16, 2017, 06:03:57 PM
Moni
I just love your new avatar, speedy recovery.
Sara
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 16, 2017, 09:32:38 PM
Moni, WOW!  Your new avatar photo is amazing. 

And not a trace of Clyde.  Have you named Clyde's little sister yet?  I vote for Bonnie. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 17, 2017, 01:20:30 PM
LOL   :D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 17, 2017, 02:54:15 PM
...and Bonnie (the replacement for Clyde) rhymes with the correct pronunciation for Moni.  Nobody other than Laurie would attempt to pronounce Bonnie the wrong way. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 17, 2017, 04:24:11 PM
Thanks Kendra, I will think about it. Thanks for the comments on the picture everyone, my casual slutty look must fit me. Sorry but not much energy today. Spent most of the day in bed not feeling well. Two days in a row, I could use an up day right about now. Maybe its the hormones I seem to cry about the dumbest things.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 17, 2017, 04:29:40 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 17, 2017, 04:24:11 PM
Thanks Kendra, I will think about it. Thanks for the comments on the picture everyone, my casual slutty look must fit me. Sorry but not much energy today. Spent most of the day in bed not feeling well. Two days in a row, I could use an up day right about now. Maybe its the hormones I seem to cry about the dumbest things.
Moni

You best start feeling better. You hear me?
  You don't want to make me have to come out there....

PS Crying over dumb things is ok.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 17, 2017, 05:52:30 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 17, 2017, 04:24:11 PM
Thanks Kendra, I will think about it. Thanks for the comments on the picture everyone, my casual slutty look must fit me. Sorry but not much energy today. Spent most of the day in bed not feeling well. Two days in a row, I could use an up day right about now. Maybe its the hormones I seem to cry about the dumbest things.
Moni

Aww, I can relate to the return of hormones post op resulting in fragile emotions. Also Wittenberg had warned me to expect a month of post op depression and she was spot on, it wasn't easy and happily it's not forgotten but definitely passed. I used this to simply remember that feeling low was a predictable and temporary response to recovery.

And permit me to go a bit academic, I happened on some recent research the other day, it seems there's a very tight connection between the immune system and depression. This sure squares with my post op experience.

Hugs, sending you wishes for an up day.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on July 17, 2017, 06:41:36 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on July 17, 2017, 06:34:00 PM
Terri, this is emphatically not what I've said. The immune system is obviously going ape>-bleeped-< after a major surgery, any effect of hormones would be relatively infinitesimal.

I think I was also quite clear in prior posts that I really wouldn't have noticed the presence or absence of estrogen in the first week post op.

Okay, sorry.  I thought you said "there's a very tight connection between the immune system and depression", and Monica was talking about post-op depression. I found it relevant, but apparently I was mistaken. I'll delete my post.

Yes, your previous posts were quite clear, thank you.

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 17, 2017, 08:29:59 PM
For the record, I think I am not depressed. I have to pee a lot. It is no longer a neat proposition. I am cleaning up the surgery site a lot. It  gets sore. I have sores on legs from pads  rubbing. A shower and 2 1/2 hours a day dilating, not sleeping because I wake up every couple of hours, hormones going crazy and hot flashes constantly having me steaming or freezing. Given that, I am exhausted I wouldd  guess, not depressed. I push myself to get a little exercise but it starts swelling, rubbing on my sores. After two harder days, I could use a good day with a bit  more energy. I am still happy I had surgery, would not change a thing, and consider myself extremely lucky. In the back of my mind someone might read this thread and might be wondering how  it feels 3 weeks post op. I owe the thread the descriptionn of what it might feel like. I know it looks like I  might  be complaining, but I can't help that. Oh, on top of everything else, you start seeing changes. Some are easy. Bruising disappearing, good news. Other things, color changes for example play on your mind. Is this or thaat a start of an issue to watch out for, that might be a setback. I personnally think back to how bad my FFS turned, and there is some fear that I try to keep leashed. In everything I try to contribute to this site, I ask for others to be positive, take positive steps. I will not give in to negativity. Where are you Laurie, my therapy is giving you a hard time, ya stinker. Well dilation number 4 is done, one more to go. Now, smile, damn it!
PoopedMoni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 17, 2017, 09:51:07 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 17, 2017, 08:29:59 PM
For the record, I think I am not depressed. I have to pee a lot. It is no longer a neat proposition.
....
PoopedMoni

Oh yeah I didn't mean to suggest you are, the mechanism is about mood and if it runs long enough it can become or feed into depression.

So for me, I have a history really prone to depression and along the way I've had to learn to distinguish simply being sad sometimes due to >-bleeped-< that happens in life and actual depression. -- and I very much needed to utilize that knowledge during recovery to keep faith and keep.my spirits up -- not feed my depressive tendencies.

And there have been ups and downs, better and harder days for 3 months.

Again, hugs, best wishes.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 18, 2017, 09:07:51 AM
Moni,

I am sorry to tell you but you are human ;). I think anyone in that situation would be where you are or worse emotionally. I am thrilled to see you keeping your chin up after all that and a lack of sleep.

It will improve and you will rock this.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 18, 2017, 10:19:23 AM
Quote from: Jacqueline on July 18, 2017, 09:07:51 AM
Moni,

I am sorry to tell you but you are human ;).

I'm not so sure about this proposition. I'm working on the proof that either Moni or Laurie cannot exist in the same universe as mere humans. Platonic archetype, cyborg, agent Smith, agent Elrond?

Oh and FTR, platonic doesn't describe my feelings for either of them.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 18, 2017, 04:16:48 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on July 18, 2017, 10:19:23 AM
I'm not so sure about this proposition. I'm working on the proof that either Moni or Laurie cannot exist in the same universe as mere humans. Platonic archetype, cyborg, agent Smith, agent Elrond?

Oh and FTR, platonic doesn't describe my feelings for either of them.
You left out weirdos. Not feelin the 'sex goddess' thing lately. And human, that's a stretch.

ConfusedMoni

Jacqui, you didn't change your name to be more like Jeanette, I mean Laurie, did u?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 18, 2017, 04:42:51 PM
Absolutely!

I think it is for similar reasons.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 18, 2017, 08:20:49 PM
   Today brought more energy. I also heard from the doctor. She wants to see me sooner than scheduled. It is related to the removal of the black skin at the entrance. She will discuss the white areas then. I just gotta figure a way to get there. My partner will be away. Laurie, I need a ride. Not up for driving 7 hours yet.
   Tomorrow I will push it. I am having seven people from work over. Will get pizza to make easy. I figure it will help keep mood up. It will probably tire me out with the heat here. Won't last too long but would like to sit outside a while.
   One more thing of my personal preferences. I am dealing with whatever the surgery will throw my way. I will earn this vagina with my efforts and the luck life has thrown my way. It is my vagina. I will not call her a neo vagina. No no no!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on July 19, 2017, 01:21:30 PM
As you say, you'll take whatever this surgery throws your way!!! :-)  I guess I understand now why they want me to stay within an hour and a half drive for 3 weeks. . . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 19, 2017, 04:49:25 PM
Hi Monica,

I was going to suggest that you do things to look forward to. A pizza party is a great idea.

I know this is something you do not want to hear but make sure you get some leafy greens twice a day. Just a little can help a lot. D3 is important to get daily.

I am sending good thoughts your way.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 19, 2017, 06:23:48 PM
I think Rachel has great advice to do something fun like a pizza party, and I also wish good thoughts for you.

Laurie may have consumed some leafy greens while traveling through Colorado.  We think that's why she accidentally locked her keys in her truck.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 20, 2017, 06:51:13 PM
Oh yea, the salad will be here soon. Anyone have Friendlies Ice Cream restaurants near them? I like the crispy chicken salad and the ice cream is to have GCS for. Woowho! Kendra, you don't think I am in trouble with Rachel for mentioning the ice cream, do you?

I have thought of your suggestions for distraction, and I came up with a absolute inspiration. I am gonna get in my truck (yes I have one) and I am gonna travel to visit as many friends from Susan's as I can. I might even end up in the great northwest. No one could possibly have done something like that before. Just me and my little donut cushion.

Okay, 10 years GCS update here. Well, maybe not that long. A little over three weeks? Is that all? I have been swelling more in the abdomen, around the vagina and into the buttock area. I had people over yesterday and it got much worse with more activity. I am told to exercise some gradually, but it seems my body can't take it yet. Being older makes healing slow down. I am back to icing and compression on the area. Wish they made a crotch ace bandage. Dilation is good with both sizes. The thing that wipes me out is showering. I am exhausted afterward. Love to all, Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 20, 2017, 08:26:58 PM
Moni, you're still on track, I still had lots of swelling at 4 weeks and showers completely wiped me out.

Today I carried around a huge setup for a couple of hours, splitting sections off one at a time to make a dozen matching design pieces in future blow slots.

There's a Friendly's just about 2 miles from me, lmk when you wanna meet there!

<3

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 20, 2017, 08:39:47 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 20, 2017, 06:51:13 PM
Oh yea, the salad will be here soon. Anyone have Friendlies Ice Cream restaurants near them? I like the crispy chicken salad and the ice cream is to have GCS for. Woowho! Kendra, you don't think I am in trouble with Rachel for mentioning the ice cream, do you?

I have thought of your suggestions for distraction, and I came up with a absolute inspiration. I am gonna get in my truck (yes I have one) and I am gonna travel to visit as many friends from Susan's as I can. I might even end up in the great northwest. No one could possibly have done something like that before. Just me and my little donut cushion.

Okay, 10 years GCS update here. Well, maybe not that long. A little over three weeks? Is that all? I have been swelling more in the abdomen, around the vagina and into the buttock area. I had people over yesterday and it got much worse with more activity. I am told to exercise some gradually, but it seems my body can't take it yet. Being older makes healing slow down. I am back to icing and compression on the area. Wish they made a crotch ace bandage. Dilation is good with both sizes. The thing that wipes me out is showering. I am exhausted afterward. Love to all, Moni

Oh yes Minnie be sure to bring that doughnut along it will definitely come in handy during the trip. Or you can do like I did make lots of stops to visit strange people and get their viewpoints on life. It can be very enlightening and fulfilling. You could even say life changing. Besides giving the tail bone a rest.

   Beware of those feigning illness in hospital beds they may be carriers of dreadful conditions and out to infect you with them.

Hugs,
    Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 21, 2017, 01:03:16 AM
Many of our Friendly's have closed down. However, when our kids were growing up, it was a staple. The one place we knew they would eat. Just visited one a few weeks ago with our youngest (she's 15). Still a fun experience. Glad we are away from the child seats.

Think shrinking thoughts.

Have a good night all.

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 21, 2017, 03:24:32 PM
Quote from: Laurie on July 20, 2017, 08:39:47 PM
Oh yes Minnie be sure to bring that doughnut along it will definitely come in handy during the trip. Or you can do like I did make lots of stops to visit strange people and get their viewpoints on life. It can be very enlightening and fulfilling. You could even say life changing. Besides giving the tail bone a rest.

   Beware of those feigning illness in hospital beds they may be carriers of dreadful conditions and out to infect you with them.

Hugs,
    Laurie
Yes Laurie, you did catch it. I infected you with 'full-time-itus.' There's no cure Sweetie!


Jacqui, do you think we should bring Laurie to Friendly's. Maybe she would get the hint and mellow out that mean streak.

Thank you Sadie, I am definitely concerned at least. I sat on the couch all day with ice on and off and compression and I am still swollen. I caught one of my butt cheeks kissing the other one this morning. I don't even know if that is legal in this state. Help! I have no activity to blame it on, so thanks for saying you had it too.
I gotta ask this. I sat down to pee while still a little dopey this morning. I reached down to direct the non existing 'pee dispenser' and damn near peed on my hand. Am I the only one who is that dumb?
Oh and showers do suck. I have to lay down shortly after, shivering like crazy usually. God, listen to me whine, didn't mean to steal your 'thing' Laurie.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 21, 2017, 04:06:14 PM
My biggest bruising / swelling was across lower abdomen, right about where uterus would be if I were cic. That was black and blue for about 4 weeks. I should have expected swelling at the bottom of my butt cheeks, it's right at the base of the surgical site but it came as a surprise.

I didn't reach for the former shenis when peeing in the first few weeks because I was so focused on the process and pain that I couldn't miss that things were changed. It was only after all that that the long-standing habit returned. A similar habit is sometimes referring to my old name or myself as "he".

Until about week 6 I was completely ndone in by showers, wrapped myself in towels and a blanket and just rest until I felt better.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: marctravis on July 21, 2017, 06:10:17 PM
We are also experiencing swelling in the abdomen above the vagina. My wife is about 7 weeks post op from mcginn. The swelling has mostly gone down but now there's a painful lump right under the incision on the right side. The doctors office says it's the location of where the testicles were cut. Still it's causing her to not be able to feel comfortable going out and excercising. She goes back to work in a couple of weeks so I'm hoping this resolves before too much longer. Has anyone else had this issue?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 21, 2017, 08:04:40 PM
I was 54 when I had GCS last November with Dr. McGinn. I went back to work 3 weeks 6 days after GCS. The first two weeks were rough for me but I managed. When I went back to work I was tired and sore but I was able to manage.

I had issues while healing with granulation and scar tissue and some procedures but otherwise I think my recovery was much smoother than what I have read about others. My operation was stopped short due to a blood pressure issue. My stay in the hospital was not good but when I got out I did pretty well.


Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 21, 2017, 09:52:08 PM
I guess it would be easier if I hadn't started to feel better, no swelling, not much soreness, then it hit me with getting worse in these areas. Now it seems each day gets a bit worse not better. The no activity, pressure and ice seem to do nothing. I am not yet four weeks but I thought I would be up swinging at this point. i guess each stage of repair brings different issues. No granulation at this point, but suspect it will come later. I don't know how painful this debridement will be next Friday. Spelling?  I hope it cleans it up some, I gotta say I am no candidate for advertising the procedure based on how it looks right now. Overall, I think I need to work on my expectations of how I will be at some particular point in time. I have got to lose that expectation and just deal with what is right now.
Oh anyone else seem to pee more frequently after the procedure?
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 21, 2017, 10:16:09 PM
Yep hon, I had a lot of one thing gets a little better, then another will seem worse.

Also I think you have to allow that we're going through this and our reserve of good feelings is being tapped. Allow for that, dig in, know that it will improve. At a month my vagina pretty well looked like hamburger and had an odor I was deeply tired of (the only reason I felt that was OK was because the smell was pretty much the same until it finally cleared up between weeks 6-7)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: marctravis on July 22, 2017, 08:30:53 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 21, 2017, 09:52:08 PM
I guess it would be easier if I hadn't started to feel better, no swelling, not much soreness, then it hit me with getting worse in these areas. Now it seems each day gets a bit worse not better. The no activity, pressure and ice seem to do nothing. I am not yet four weeks but I thought I would be up swinging at this point. i guess each stage of repair brings different issues. No granulation at this point, but suspect it will come later. I don't know how painful this debridement will be next Friday. Spelling?  I hope it cleans it up some, I gotta say I am no candidate for advertising the procedure based on how it looks right now. Overall, I think I need to work on my expectations of how I will be at some particular point in time. I have got to lose that expectation and just deal with what is right now.
Oh anyone else seem to pee more frequently after the procedure?
Moni

Yep, you sound like my wife. She thought she'd be able to go to the gym at this point, and pretty much do what she used to. She's getting pretty frustrated right now with work coming up in two weeks and still not able to walk without some pain, and not for very long. She did have some granulations that the doc took care of at our 6 week visit. It was kind of an unexpected set back b/c she started bleeding again and got more pain from the silver nitrate. It's slowly improving. BTW dr mcginn did tell us that ice wouldn't really be effective for swelling at this point.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 22, 2017, 10:25:16 AM
Moni I wish I could offer advice but I have zero experience in this area.  I wish I was there to give you a hug.  You have succeeded with so much, you will on this as well.  It's too bad time travel doesn't exist so you could jump forward a few days and weeks.  You will get there.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 22, 2017, 10:51:25 AM
Thanks Sadie and Marc,
   I figured the increase in swelling was recent, so I would try ice to bring it back to the normal swollen level. I think it is very sweet that you have been on here in the interest of your wife, Marc.
   Sadie your advise and interest has been invaluable. Thank you so much.
   I woke up feeling better. I try to think of some piece of advice that might help someone  else looking forward to doing this. I have sores where the pads have rubbed. They are painful and don't seem to get any air to heal. I have decided that putting pads in place in the same way each time is not a good thing. Varying the method can stop the same areas from being rubbed as much. I also try to lay out with nothing on to let the sores get air to heal. It is best to wait til you are home before doing this. The police don't really understand the concept, I'm afraid. YMMV
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 22, 2017, 10:55:37 AM
Quote from: Kendra on July 22, 2017, 10:25:16 AM
Moni I wish I could offer advice but I have zero experience in this area.  I wish I was there to give you a hug.  You have succeeded with so much, you will on this as well.  It's too bad time travel doesn't exist so you could jump forward a few days and weeks.  You will get there.
How did you sneak in there Kendra? Thank you for your kindness. To me it is enough that you re keeping "That Woman" busy.  :)
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 22, 2017, 11:03:24 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 22, 2017, 10:55:37 AM
How did you sneak in there Kendra? Thank you for your kindness. To me it is enough that you re keeping "That Woman" busy.  :)
Moni

   Hey now! Don't you go calling me "That Woman"  that is your designation and it shall remain so.  Sorry, I haven't been commenting on this thread Marcy. Marni, whateva,  But I am at a loss for something to say on the current foibles you are having to deal with. I have no reference to them at all and therefore have nothing of import to add. I need must leave the help to those that have been where you now tread.

  Loves ya though, don't you go thinking I don't

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 22, 2017, 11:24:41 AM
Hi Monica,

I showed you pics of my operation when you were in the hospital. My site at 4 weeks definitely looked pretty bad.

I slept on a chuck pad (still do because I dilate before going to bed) after GCS in the nude. It felt really weird but now I prefer it. I used Neosporin on my pad rashes, especially before going to bed. I switched to a thin pad and changed more frequently.  I am able to not wear a pad now.

Smell
Definitely for only when you are healed. I installed a shower hose and use that every few days. The stream of water definitely cleans me out. I purchased a douche dildo from Colt that I can us if I think it is needed. I only used it 3 times.  It sprays water like a dildo sprinkler. You can not leave it in there. You need to move it in and out quickly to not trap water under pressure inside. This really gives a cleaning.

I use to have a bad odor and was very self conscious. I had a lot of necrotic tissue that needed to be removed through dry packing. Bacteria and old lube like to cling to my necrotic tissue (the top layer of my graph skin did not survive) I tried using a 1.5 liter bladder douche and it helped and was great to use at the 4 month mark under advise of Chrystal at Papillion. This is really gross. At four month mark the smell got really bad. I was dry packing and was glad to have the packing in there to keep the odor in. I went to Papillion and Chrystal examined me and found a hair in the back of my vagina with some white stuff. It was a stray hair I must have gotten in there when dilating.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 22, 2017, 12:44:43 PM
Moni, if you aren't already, add collagen making foods, gelatin etc
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 22, 2017, 06:27:47 PM
Just to finish what I said above (was working all day)

Sometime around week 5 healing seemed to have slowed to nearly nil. I realized that the inside of my mouth had been sore for a few days and realized that of course, my body is making all the collagen it can and of course the mouth lining is being continually repaired, also requiring collagen. I started making jello and it immediately - well, within a day - cleared up the canker sores in my mouth and the sore labia hurt less also.

Three are also some vitamins & veggies you want to eating for collagen, Google will give details.

The sores you're talking about are from maxipads, yes? I spent some time finding the right size to minimize problems (always green / x-long but narrow and ultrathin.

I was also hardly walking so chafing wasn't too bad. I tried very hard to get the pads changed before they would leak into my underwear and mostly succeeded except when I was working unfortunately this meant changing pads every 2-4 hours. Again, starting with the wrong pad, one intended for overnight when I was out and about was the worst cause of chafing, along with difficulty changing pads often enough when working.

Hugs, hope that helps!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 22, 2017, 08:44:35 PM
Sadie,
   Thank you very much. I am lucky to not have any smell at this point. I remember the stray hair post and have tried hard to avoid that. I think the majority of dead tissue is at the opening of the vagina and not inside. I am hoping this will help avoid the smell. The black areas have turned an ugly shade of white. I am considering laying out more without clothes to dry the areas. It is very hard for things to dry with dilating 5 times, peeing all the time, showering.
   Gross warning if you read further.     I think I have maybe figured out why my abdomen is so sensitive. At least a theory. When I had my FFS I had my brow shaved. This involves the separation/disturbance of the skin from the bone and the return of the two after the shaving. It was amazingly sore and sensitive with a feel similar to my abdomen now. I am thinking with everything shifted around this abdominal area might be disturbed in a similar manner(obviously without the bone). It has a very similar feel. I am really trying to figure out why the body feels like it does. I am leaving unanswered anything about the parts not ready to be explored.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 22, 2017, 09:01:23 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 22, 2017, 08:44:35 PM
It was amazingly sore and sensitive with a feel similar to my abdomen now. I am thinking with everything shifted around this abdominal area might be disturbed in a similar manner(obviously without the bone). It has a very similar feel. I am really trying to figure out why the body feels like it does.
Moni

   You could be onto something Minus. I too had had and operation in my abdomen where they cut out several parts, moved around others and had to rejoin some loose ends. Ever since I have had a constant ache and pains on the right side  below the rib cage. I've mentioned it almost every doctor visit and nothing has been found. It is more painful when bending from side to side, lifting my torso to re-position in bed and can downright hurt when bending to lift something heavy.  Most of the time it isn't bad. But like I said doctors have found nothing to worry about and think it is musculature in nature. We may just have something in common after all though I admit it seems highly unlikely.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 22, 2017, 10:18:25 PM
That sounds pretty ok, I escaped any black, which I'm taking to be necrosis. Just glad you're holding up.

Hugs and gnight
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 08:42:45 AM
Okay, there is just so much laying around one can do. I am planning my escape, I have drugged the dogs, bribed a few guards and have my tunnel dug. My forged papers were forged by a man who was rapidly going blind so I hope they are okay. I have been practicing my English, so I hope that will not get me captured.  Wish me luck.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Devlyn on July 23, 2017, 08:49:34 AM
Fraulein Moni! Your German is good. And I hear, also, your French. Your arms...up!  :police:
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: AnneK on July 23, 2017, 10:08:07 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 08:42:45 AM
Okay, there is just so much laying around one can do. I am planning my escape, I have drugged the dogs, bribed a few guards and have my tunnel dug. My forged papers were forged by a man who was rapidly going blind so I hope they are okay. I have been practicing my English, so I hope that will not get me captured.  Wish me luck.
Moni


Don't forget the theme music!   ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbsuAbTTsV8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbsuAbTTsV8)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 11:05:21 AM
You ladies are awesome. I love that music. Not sure I am ready for the ride on the back of Steve McQueen's motorcycle though. I will admit to being brought up on WWII movies. Where Eagles Dare was my fav. Still waiting for Bronson to stop freaking out in the tunnel  before I can leave. Such a drama queen, that one!

I am wanting to order the next two dilators. (I mean retrieve them behind enemy lines.) Am I correct that they are green then orange from Soul Source? They  increase by 1/4 inch  at a time, right?

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: AnneK on July 23, 2017, 11:19:53 AM
QuoteNot sure I am ready for the ride on the back of Steve McQueen's motorcycle though.

If you watch his ride carefully, you can see one scene where he rides by a house that has a television antenna!  Not too many people had TV back in those days.   ;)

QuoteWhere Eagles Dare was my fav

While that was a good movie, I've never been a fan of Richard Burton or Clint Eastwood.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 23, 2017, 05:13:02 PM
Green and orange and they increase 1/4 of an inch each. Orange is big, wait till you see it.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 23, 2017, 06:07:58 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on July 23, 2017, 05:13:02 PM
Green and orange and they increase 1/4 of an inch each. Orange is big, wait till you see it.


Probably not as big as Big John.... Big Bad John.

Hugs,
   Laurie

Pssst amazon carries him. >:-) >:-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on July 23, 2017, 06:21:03 PM
From what I understand, orange is only an inch and a half in diameter - a piece of cake. The one I would like to get a look at is Dr Meltzer has a number 5 dilator that you special order. It's supposed to be a quarter of an inch larger at an and three quarters. That might be a bit of a challenge.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 23, 2017, 06:35:32 PM
I do love your "Bim on the porch" avatar.....it is, I must say,  simply awesome.  8)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 06:58:33 PM
Quote from: Dena on July 23, 2017, 06:21:03 PM
From what I understand, orange is only an inch and a half in diameter - a piece of cake. The one I would like to get a look at is Dr Meltzer has a number 5 dilator that you special order. It's supposed to be a quarter of an inch larger at an and three quarters. That might be a bit of a challenge.
My answer to number 5 is a good pair of running shoes.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 23, 2017, 07:20:38 PM
Dr. McGinn has a #5 in one of her exam rooms that is absolutely huge, obviously a joke.

I had asked Chrystal at Papillion about larger than #4 and she sad anything you can accommodate without pain is ok.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 23, 2017, 07:25:21 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 06:58:33 PM
My answer to number 5 is a good pair of running shoes.
Moni
As the Nike ad says, Just Do It.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 08:50:35 PM
Quote from: Kendra on July 23, 2017, 07:25:21 PM
As the Nike ad says, Just Do It.
Kendra, if u are talking about just doing number 5, you go first!

Does anyone know generally when one moves up to green? Blue is pretty easy at this point, but I know scars can contract among other things and it could get difficult. Just wondering.

I figured I would let you know I was recaptured after three hours or so on the lam. I swell up so bad when I walk much so I spent time in the wheelchair. I won't mention any names Anne, but one of my friends provided the musical accompaniment for my trip as it has rolled around in my empty head all afternoon. My partner was  looking for a dress and I ended up stealing one out from under her. A girl has got to be ready to go back to work right? So, I self powered to get some exercise, still feeling tight when done, but I started to think. (Ugh-oh!) What is so different between me as a trans   person and a person who has a disability who might need this chair in the normal course of events. I am not saying trans folks are disabled, but we both strive to overcome circumstances beyond our control. The disabled person is looked on very favorably if they overcome their issues, yet to many, me overcoming my difficulties, makes me a pariah. It is so weird. Well, I hope I didn't derail this crazy thread. If a newbie were to read this, they would probably say,"Derail what? It went from dilating with giant dildos while wearing running shoes, to The Great Escape while shopping for dresses and comparing trans folk to disabled people." I guess I gotta side with them, this thing is a might confusing. I just wish I hadn't crashed my plane today as I was headed for the Alps. I could taste freedom. ;D

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: debrferguson on July 24, 2017, 08:35:35 AM
With most medical conditions or disabilities, when someone is diagnosed with one, the expectation is that loved ones will rally to support that person. Others know it could be hard and those loved ones will need support as well, but you would generally be considered to be a very insensitive family member or friend if you ran the moment things got difficult.
With Gender Dysphoria it is socially acceptable to run if a loved one is diagnosed with it. And, in fact, its acceptable for every person around that person to re-evaluate their relationship to the dysphoric person.
it seems totally wrong to me, but it also is socially unacceptable for me to point this out to my loved ones.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Barb99 on July 24, 2017, 09:54:46 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 23, 2017, 08:50:35 PM
Kendra, if u are talking about just doing number 5, you go first!

Does anyone know generally when one moves up to green? Blue is pretty easy at this point, but I know scars can contract among other things and it could get difficult. Just wondering.

Hi Moni, hope your doing well.
My doctor started me out on blue and green on day 1. 10 minutes on blue and 10 on green. The green was a bit uncomfortable at first (I only did about 5 minutes with it each time for the first month) but not painful.
I'm about 8 months post now and plan on starting to work on the orange next month. It does look kind of big!

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 24, 2017, 07:07:16 PM
I progressed quickly.  I was at orange for my 3 month checkup; then I had scar tissue contraction which really hurt. I have a lot of scar tissue. I am glad I went to orange quickly or if the scar tissue contracted before I went to orange I do not know how I would have gone up in size. Although the prescription hydroquarterzone cream allowed the stretch marks to expand and some how I would have managed. Looking back I should have given orange an extra 5 or so minutes per dilation.

E-mail Papillion and get their thoughts. You need to keep up the 5 a day for 30 minutes. I had to split my time and then at my 6 month check up I was told to do purple 5 minutes and orange 25 minutes. I get as much dept with orange as purple. 1-3 months 5/day, 3 months to 6 months 3/day and after 6 months 1/day. I was so happy to be at 1/day.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: debrferguson on July 24, 2017, 07:39:56 PM
Thank you for sharing your experience with the dilators. Super helpful as I deal with my post-op experience. June 30. Currently on Blue only showing last dot. I feel like I have ridden a horse all day. No swelling, no pain. Just some soreness.

I've been wondering why 5x and not 3x. It seems like things go to the same place even whether its 8 hours between sessions (when I sleep) or 3 hours during the day. Is 5x just to make sure everyone gets desired results? And for some, 3 is fine?

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on July 24, 2017, 07:50:23 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on July 24, 2017, 07:07:16 PM
You need to keep up the 5 a day for 30 minutes.

So how did you manage that while working full-time?

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 24, 2017, 10:00:21 PM
Hi Folks,

I know that some of you (not That Woman of course) have wondered just what became of those unwanted scrapes of Clyde that Mynah..uh Minerva? ,oh heck you know of whom I speak, so callously tossed aside. Well as you know I was there to pick up the remains of good ol' Clyde, or rather what was left of him. When I've been ask about poor Clyde all I could say was that I had to find a proper resting place for him. Sorry but these things can take some time to process.
  After consideration and preparation I can now tell you Clyde has been preserved !

   (https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhQ4sqxv.jpg&hash=3120e7566d43fbaca8885f749ceeac0641ec2a49)

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 24, 2017, 10:15:15 PM
Quote from: Laurie on July 24, 2017, 10:00:21 PM
Hi Folks,

I know that some of you (not That Woman of course) have wondered just what became of those unwanted scrapes of Clyde that Mynah..uh Minerva? ,oh heck you know of whom I speak, so callously tossed aside. Well as you know I was there to pick up the remains of good ol' Clyde, or rather what was left of him. When I've been ask about poor Clyde all I could say was that I had to find a proper resting place for him. Sorry but these things can take some time to process.
  After consideration and preparation I can now tell you Clyde has been preserved !

   (https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhQ4sqxv.jpg&hash=3120e7566d43fbaca8885f749ceeac0641ec2a49)


Hugs,
   Laurie

OMG  I think I am traumatized. It isn't barking is it? This is what is considered Moni Kryptonite!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 24, 2017, 10:36:47 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 24, 2017, 10:15:15 PM
OMG  I think I am traumatized. It isn't barking is it? This is what is considered Moni Kryptonite!

Dearest Mailie,

You have nothing to worry about, as Clyde is safely 3000 miles away. But you might think twice about upsetting me because as you know 3k miles is nothing but a few days drive.... (and I do still have your address...)

Do tell Anne hi for me.

Still lovin ya,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 25, 2017, 01:27:21 AM
Clyde looks to be in a bit of a jam. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 25, 2017, 01:52:29 AM
May he rest in pieces peace  ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 09:38:32 AM
Quote from: Kendra on July 25, 2017, 01:27:21 AM
Clyde looks to be in a bit of a jam.

Cute.... l.o.l.!   Too funny
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 25, 2017, 10:28:41 AM
Seeing Clyde that way is jarring.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 10:32:05 AM
Zing!!!...the girls on a roll !..lol
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 25, 2017, 11:12:51 AM
Now the love can be spread around.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 25, 2017, 11:13:51 AM
Quote from: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 10:32:05 AM
Zing!!!...the girls on a roll !..lol

Served hot and buttered..
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 25, 2017, 03:30:28 PM
Quote from: Kendra on July 25, 2017, 01:27:21 AM
Clyde looks to be in a bit of a jam.
Okay, I see who started the Clyde food references here. (Am presently urping in own mouth, thank you very much!) Kendra you seem so sweet and nice, then you go starting trouble. How did you get that sky high reputation, starting trouble like this? You must be Mother Teresa and Rasputin all rolled up in one. Besides I much prefer 'Vajelly' to jam or 'penis butter.' (Attention mods, this is a cry for help. If my reference is too much, do a girl a favor and remove all the Clyde food references. I plead, "disgust" and throw myself on the mercy of the court.)
Mon-urp-i
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 04:03:49 PM
Oh hellzzzz no!, kielbasa anyone? If not we have fresh hot dogs or polish sausages?...dangit, I'm getting hungry, I'm out.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 25, 2017, 04:13:52 PM
Oh my, another straight-up reference to Clyde seems to be sticking out.  Alright if I said too much maybe it's time to can it.   :P
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on July 25, 2017, 04:30:45 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 04:03:49 PM
Oh hellzzzz no!, kielbasa anyone? If not we have fresh hot dogs or polish sausages?...dangit, I'm getting hungry, I'm out.

Oh, what are those little sausages in the jars called?  It's on the tip of my tongue...
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 04:37:01 PM
G.. Damned Vienna Sausages!! Thanks Michelle..you rock!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 25, 2017, 05:48:15 PM
Moni,
   
   Damn it Moni! How many times do I have to tell you, never show weakness. Never, never, never! Now you make the next post, you face the music, not me. I'm outta here.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 25, 2017, 05:51:21 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 04:37:01 PM
G.. Damned Vienna Sausages!! Thanks Michelle..you rock!

  How about a good ol' wiener? I hear they sell them at Kum n Go stations (yes that really is the name of a chain of gas stations.)  I haven't been able to bring myself to use one though so I cannot recommend  them from personal experience.

  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 25, 2017, 06:03:29 PM
Quote from: Michelle_P on July 25, 2017, 04:30:45 PM
> Oh, what are those little sausages in the jars called? 
Clydelets.  Trademark has been applied for.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 06:16:29 PM
Quote from: Laurie on July 25, 2017, 05:51:21 PM
  How about a good ol' wiener? I hear they sell them at Kum n Go stations (yes that really is the name of a chain of gas stations.)  I haven't been able to bring myself to use one though so I cannot recommend  them from personal experience.

  Laurie


Mmmmmmmm!!....Weiners. Thanks, Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 25, 2017, 09:17:18 PM
I hate to ruin the party but I actually have a thought related to the original thread. Now quiet down you chuckle heads.

I mentioned Dr. McGinn's stitch to my abdomen to take pressure off of the areas that need to heal. I reached down after peeing trying to pull up my panties. I heard a pop sound. It was apparently the dissolving stitch giving way. Now, my abdomen looks more normal. At 4 weeks today, my bruising is almost gone. I sat through lunch in a restaurant okay but am now more swollen. I have been peeing differently each time, so I finally looked with a mirror. The white skin which I am assuming is dead skin, was getting in the way. There is no feeling to the white areas and I  suspect the doctor will remove it on Friday, but I am not messing with it. I will be asking about swelling, labia formation, using scar strips on the scars. Also I don't know if she will remove stitches. I believe I saw my clit today. I have evidence that it has good feeling. It seems to feel swollen with sexual thoughts. That upper area is nice and pink. It is amazing, no, almost impossible to imagine what used to be there. There's truly no going back and that makes me happy.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 25, 2017, 09:27:12 PM
Congrats, girl. You're done , you won. I'm so happy for you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 25, 2017, 09:52:09 PM
  I knew some party pooper was going to blow the Oscar Meyer whistle on us eventually. And I would have laid money on it being That Woman. Who does she think she is the owner of the thread or something?

Okay Meanie I'll behave (fingers crossed) Have your ol' thread back. See if I care

  :P :P :P

Hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on July 25, 2017, 09:57:03 PM
It is wonderful to finally reach such a tremendous milestone in transition.

Congratulations. Again. Heck, have a years worth. This event is so worth it.

(Youse hear dat, Mister Limpy?)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 26, 2017, 01:32:01 AM
Yay!  So good to hear this.  HappyMoni is indeed happy Moni. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 26, 2017, 02:57:47 AM
Brilliant. At the risk of stealing Ashley's phrase, onward and upward. I agree, it is so good to hear.

Must be kind of exciting to have that experience and know how much better it will be.

Get rest and keep healing.

With warmth,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 26, 2017, 03:48:05 AM
Congrats Moni you sound like a very happy lady  ;D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 26, 2017, 06:12:05 AM
Sounds wonderful Moni, a clitoris is a joy forever (mine is swelling thinking of yours as I write ;-) )

I have a PM for you that's been delayed by being too busy.

Huggles
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: debrferguson on July 26, 2017, 08:59:18 AM
Congrats! It is amazing how quickly it becomes impossible to imagine there being something else down below.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 26, 2017, 10:17:40 AM
Moni, seeing you are now so happy after your recent surgery is chipping away at the only thing I am undecided on. 

I think it was said in some movie.  I'll have what she's having. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 26, 2017, 11:23:02 AM
Quote from: Kendra on July 26, 2017, 10:17:40 AM
Moni, seeing you are now so happy after your recent surgery is chipping away at the only thing I am undecided on. 

I think it was said in some movie.  I'll have what she's having.
Is that When Harry met Sally with Meg Ryan? I believe she was in a restaurant moaning in ecstasy and another woman said, "I'll have what she's having." Not sure I can reproduce that at this point.

Thank you ladies, you are wonderful as always. I wish I could share  the feeling with those who are in waiting. Like the title of the thread,  'After so many years waiting.' I know, for way too long, how hard it is to wait. I only hope my joy doesn't cause anyone else heartache.
Feeling better today. Moving better today. By the end of the day, we'll  see.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 26, 2017, 11:37:37 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 26, 2017, 11:23:02 AM
Is that When Harry met Sally with Meg Ryan? I believe she was in a restaurant moaning in ecstasy and another woman said, "I'll have what she's having." Not sure I can reproduce that at this point.

Thank you ladies, you are wonderful as always. I wish I could share  the feeling with those who are in waiting. Like the title of the thread,  'After so many years waiting.' I know, for way too long, how hard it is to wait. I only hope my joy doesn't cause anyone else heartache.
Feeling better today. Moving better today. By the end of the day, we'll  see.
Moni

To the contrary...seeing you get to the other side successfully and happily gives us hope and bearing. People like you are the poster children for what the rest of can have if we do what needs to be done to get there.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 26, 2017, 12:21:44 PM
Exactly.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 26, 2017, 06:05:49 PM
I am happy you found your clitoris, yah. Does that mean some swelling is going down?

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 27, 2017, 12:42:17 PM
   I really don't know what to think. I would hope it is within the range of how people heal. I do the trip to New Hope tomorrow. I have a number of questions. I hope she removes the nasty stuff. The white stuff  seems to disintegrate slightly but really does hang on. I am getting no exercise because of swelling. Also, I lost probably ten pounds during the procedure. It is all back. This is a serious question, but it seems that either my butt checks are still swollen or, with the change in hormones, at least some of that weight has gone to my behind. It feels soft, not painful, unlike being swollen, but bigger than before. It would  be nice to gain some there.
   Mood wise I think I am okay. It is hard not to be active like usual. I stood for ten minutes doing dishes yesterday and had to go lay down because it ached so bad. I did drive my partner to the airport, but it was about my limit.
   New stuff! I can't touch the good parts yet, but I am enjoying touching the inner thigh area. I just am taking notice of it. I know the central focus is gone (penis) so the area of sensitivity I pay attention to is spreading out more. The change in focus is something I may never have done without the surgery. It is subtle and yet kind of game changing. It is the start of a whole other way of experiencing my body, I think. Does that make sense?
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 27, 2017, 12:47:32 PM
Totally makes sense. I started noticing how much more sensitive my skin is in areas after a while on HRT. I can only imagine that step.

Sorry the time to recovery is so frustrating. I can see where with your body pushing to heal itself it is exhausted with little strain elsewhere.

Hang in there. It seems like you are on the right path.

Take care.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 27, 2017, 02:33:27 PM
Moni,

Yeah, not being able to exercise meaningfully pretty well sucked. You're only a month out as I count it, at 5 weeks I spent my first day back at work. I had to lay down at every opportunity to keep my energy up and a 4 hour day left me completely ragged and needing the next day as a full rest day. I want to say emphatically don't sweat the weight, if there's anything you can do to help yourself along now, I think it's getting enough rest and eating as healthy as you can -- lots of protein, good fats and veggies. I dropped about 15 lbs in the 3 weeks post op and then another couple of lbs after returning home and only in the last month have I put some weight back on so presently I'm down about 10 from pre-op.

On erotic sensation, I was exploring the rest of my body pre-op and finding that hormones alone changed things a lot, for me post op sensation was a bare glimmer at a month out with little improvement until I got out to 2.5 months.

Hugs,

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 27, 2017, 09:00:37 PM
   Wow, I guess I have written about everything else I might as well include this. It's part of the big picture of GCS. I woke up at 4AM to go to airport to take my partner. I will admit to being tired, swollen, and frustrated this evening.  I am hoping tomorrow is a good doctor visit but there is a little worry. I guess it all got to me when the mower broke and I couldn't even bend down to look at it. My son was mowing. I waddled my butt back inside, sat down, and just cried for about an hour. One of those tension relieving, can't stop cries. As good as my mood has been, the surgery recover does kind of wear on you after a while. I feel better but I will keep an eye out for any signs of depression. I am lucky that I have more time before work starts. Am looking forward to seeing my friend Zel tomorrow.
   I read Cindy's post earlier. I can't imagine how hard it has been for her. I am going through nothing compared to her.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 27, 2017, 09:15:20 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 27, 2017, 09:00:37 PM
   Wow, I guess I have written about everything else I might as well include this. It's part of the big picture of GCS. I woke up at 4AM to go to airport to take my partner. I will admit to being tired, swollen, and frustrated this evening.  I am hoping tomorrow is a good doctor visit but there is a little worry. I guess it all got to me when the mower broke and I couldn't even bend down to look at it. My son was mowing. I waddled my butt back inside, sat down, and just cried for about an hour. One of those tension relieving, can't stop cries. As good as my mood has been, the surgery recover does kind of wear on you after a while. I feel better but I will keep an eye out for any signs of depression. I am lucky that I have more time before work starts. Am looking forward to seeing my friend Zel tomorrow.
   I read Cindy's post earlier. I can't imagine how hard it has been for her. I am going through nothing compared to her.
Moni

Dearest Minihahahooheehee,

    I'm glad you cried, I hope you had a gut wrenching (not literally) cry with gasping sobs.

Okay now that you got that out of your system you can start fresh and feel better for awhile. It is what you needed and I'm betting it did you a world of good.

   Now get back to recovering  it takes dedicated hard work don'tcha know?

  Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 27, 2017, 09:45:30 PM
So sorry you are still finding so many challenges with recovery from surgery.  I'd wish you a hug but I would be careful even doing that.  But I do wish for best possible speedy recovery.

Glad you're getting a doctor visit tomorrow - I bet you will be fine, but always good to be certain.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 28, 2017, 12:56:42 AM
Gosh Monica, maybe the Doc can give you some anti depressants to at least get you over the hump. On the other hand, getting told everything is going well will probably go a long way to making you feel better. Good luck today! I really hope all is well.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 28, 2017, 07:11:51 AM
Antidepressants take a month to be effective and our Moni is gonna be feeling much better by then :-)

One thing that imx takes effect quicker is Sam-E, in the US it's a supplement, in Europe it's prescribed. Stands up well in clinical trials, works by increasing dopamine levels.

Hugs Moni, I had my first breakdown for tears post-op at 2 weeks when I tried going out for a walk without pain meds and was in terrible pain after covering a bare ⅛ mile and hobbling back. Q: are you already in the road?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 28, 2017, 10:37:10 AM
I wasn't able to cry for years. I now relish how relieving it is. I hope that helped.

Good thoughts sent down to you on your doctor's visit.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 28, 2017, 11:31:38 AM
Hoping you have (or had) a very good follow up doctor visit today Monica.
Luvs ya,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on July 28, 2017, 11:51:30 AM
Thanks so much Moni for sharing and leading the way. I'm not going to be blind-sided by so much because you've written here about your experiences. . . hope the sun shines thru really quick. . . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: debrferguson on July 28, 2017, 04:00:04 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 27, 2017, 09:00:37 PM
    I waddled my butt back inside, sat down, and just cried for about an hour. One of those tension relieving, can't stop cries. As good as my mood has been, the surgery recover does kind of wear on you after a while. I feel better but I will keep an eye out for any signs of depression. I am lucky that I have more time before work starts. Am looking forward to seeing my friend Zel tomorrow.

I'm so sorry Moni. Tears can definitely be therapeutic. You are making progress. You will get there. My thoughts are with you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 28, 2017, 09:04:25 PM
Thank you everyone. Gail, I feel good that I have helped u. I will be watching for you.

I had a pretty good visit. She cut out the looser white stuff. She describes it in terms of like a burn. They leave the dead skin   on a long time sometimes because it protects the new tissue underneath. It looks better and I peed better today. I asked her about dilation. She said I  could start playing around with green (Debbie's boyfriend?.) Also, if I am running late in the day, it is not the same to dilate longer on #4 time to make up a missed #5 time. She said each dilation breaks bonds that are forming that will eventually restrict the depth and width. I was also oked to push harder for more depth. I had felt like I was maybe causing issues by pushing too hard. Instead  she pushed against my hand to show me the force I could use and it was significant. I had a bit of awkwardness for the first time with her when I asked about the labia area. She took my question in a direction I had not intended. I felt a little  on the defensive briefly. No biggy, I think I am a bit sensitive here lately anyway. Maybe not having Ann here to center me is the problem. No, I'm just a psycho, more likely. lol
I had fun stopping by the recovery house. My friend Zel and I always have a good time and today was no exception. Feeling much happier today. Love to all.

Moni

Oh, when I got home I had a gift in the mail. It was addressed to Mrs. Moni (last name). There was no card so I don't know who to thank.  It was baked goods and preserves and other cool stuff. I am scratching my head.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on July 28, 2017, 09:38:57 PM
Moni baloney! Glad you were seen and things sound ok.

Hugs as ever
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 28, 2017, 09:51:54 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 28, 2017, 09:04:25 PM
Maybe not having Ann here to center me is the problem. No, I'm just a psycho, more likely. lol

Moni

Oh, when I got home I had a gift in the mail. It was addressed to Mrs. Moni (last name). There was no card so I don't know who to thank.  It was baked goods and preserves and other cool stuff. I am scratching my head.

   I'm on your side Moonika, Psycho, definitely psycho. 

I am a bit put out though... I made you preserves and you said you don't want them.
You my dear can be so cruel.  :'( :'(

Glad the appointment went okay and there were no serious problems. And yes a visit with friends is always uplifting for one's spirits.

Luvs ya,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on July 29, 2017, 01:12:25 AM
Moni,

Encouraging news. Glad it cleared up some issues despite the awkwardness. Must be a relief.

Keep making strides.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 29, 2017, 01:23:20 AM
Glad your checkup checked well.  Sounds like you are well past the most difficult part and it just gets better from here.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 29, 2017, 04:14:30 AM
That's exactly what we want to hear, that every things is going well and healing as it should.  :D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 29, 2017, 09:37:10 AM
Thank you ladies, sane and crazy alike! (you know who you are)

I have a thought for anyone thinking of dilation as just a thing you have to do that is routine, boring, and without much purpose. (with McGinn, 5 times daily for for first 8-9 weeks)  I have maybe wondered about the number of times I do this with no real change. I was told initially that I had 5 inch depth, which sounded okay. I later heard of others having more, which I am happy for them. I was told yesterday by the doctor that it was critical to keep up dilations so as not to lose depth. I was like, yeah, yeah, yeah, I got that. Then she said I was healed well enough inside to try to increase depth and she pushed against my hand with surprising force to show me what I could  do. A light kind of turned on for me. It makes sense to me now that this initial healing phase is my window of  opportunity to maximize the result of the surgery. She spoke of pushing the body before the healing, in a sense, locked in the status quo. I feel like I now have a renewed purpose for keeping her schedule as well as I can. I believe, whatever one thinks of Dr. McGinn, she is committed to you getting a good result and expects you to do your part. I have too much invested in this surgery not to get the best result possible. I may never have a heat seeking missile aimed at my new best friend, but you never know what life brings.  That missile could be battery powered, so I want to be ready. lol  Anyway, if u have great depth already, this may mean nothing too you. Oh, time to go dilate, yipee! (Not)
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 29, 2017, 10:13:26 AM
Awesome news. I was wondering how the appointment went.

How do you feel after the travel? Did she say the swelling is typical?

Dilation, I am so glad I kept to the schedule and pushed. I think I gained 1.5 inches and Chrystal said I have a lot of stretch beyond my depth. I had a difficult time with scar tissue. At a point the scar tissue started to contract. I had been dilating with all 4 dilators then all the sudden the tissue contacted. It was very painful. The use of hydrocortisone stretch out the scar tissue. 

I had gained 15 pounds after GCS. When I healed I changed my diet and am back to my pre-gcs weight. There is a time to lose weight and a time to heal.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 29, 2017, 11:48:52 AM
Rachel,

   Hi, I felt pretty good most of the trip, tired toward the end. I didn't drive but could have done a lot of it. She didn't see a  lot of swelling because I had used compression and did little activity. Today, I woke up to my first kind of normal feeling day. I cleaned up some then went on a short walk with my son. Now I am starting to feel some pain standing and it is swelling. She stressed that it is still early on. That was all I needed to know, that it was healing in the normal range. I can be calm as long as nothing is headed  off in some crazy direction.
   As far as dilation i see some change already pushing harder. I did just get green n orange in the mail today/yikes! Orange may have to be out of sight for a while so I don't get nightmares. May let my little friend go green just a little in a few minutes.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 29, 2017, 01:14:49 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 29, 2017, 11:48:52 AM
> I can be calm as long as nothing is headed off in some crazy direction.
Based on recent scenery photos I think Laurie is still in Oregon.  So you can keep calm and carry on. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 30, 2017, 12:04:54 AM
I just had this brought to my attention. This woman, Dr McGinn, is awesome! I thought you would like to see it Moni.

Hugs,
   Laurie

http://www.kptv.com/story/36001821/ex-navy-doc-vows-free-surgery-for-transgender-military-patients
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 30, 2017, 02:36:46 AM
Wow - yes, absolutely awesome. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 30, 2017, 10:54:19 AM
   Thank you Laurie. Dr. McGinn is apparently single handedly trying to destroy our military. (Can the logic get any more ridiculous?)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 30, 2017, 11:35:24 AM
see Doctor McGinn
unlocking patients future
beautiful result

cut and move and stitch
match each body to each brain
she's sharp like her knife

Commander in Chief
war on transgender soldiers
Twitter missile launch

McGinn's solution
thermonuclear response
priceless interview
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 12:58:34 PM
Hello,

   I was thinking this morning that mentally I am moving on a little. Yes,  I am mindful of how long I am post op but I am less aware of other milestones like RLE or HRT.  It is not good or bad. It is just a reminder of a new chapter starting in my life. I feel that there are many more chapters to go, but I am finding that a weight that I had is gone. There are things still to do. The difference from before to now is this. Before I felt like I was holding my breath waiting for GCS. I felt a desperation to my life. Now I think any improvements to me becoming more physically comfortable will be a part of my life. I don't hold my breath any more. Let's get cliche here, I am smelling the roses. At my age, I damn well better, right?
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on July 31, 2017, 01:26:56 PM
Smelling the roses... Yes, I think you should be.  You began a new life when you woke up from the surgery.  Enjoy it.

Ithink I understand the holding your breath feeling you had.  Though I an enjoying being socially transitioned immensely, there is still something missing.  As I go along, I become more sure every day that there is surgery in my future.  I cannot imagine getting this far and stopping short of the goal.

You, sister, are there.  :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 31, 2017, 03:04:00 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 12:58:34 PM
Hello,

   I was thinking this morning that mentally I am moving on a little. Yes,  I am mindful of how long I am post op but I am less aware of other milestones like RLE or HRT.  It is not good or bad. It is just a reminder of a new chapter starting in my life. I feel that there are many more chapters to go, but I am finding that a weight that I had is gone. There are things still to do. The difference from before to now is this. Before I felt like I was holding my breath waiting for GCS. I felt a desperation to my life. Now I think any improvements to me becoming more physically comfortable will be a part of my life. I don't hold my breath any more. Let's get cliche here, I am smelling the roses. At my age, I damn well better, right?
Moni


Hi uh umm what is your name again?

   Funny you should be saying that. Oh, there is absolutely nothing wrong with progress and my dear what progress you have made! Congrats on feeling like you are getting there. And as for smelling of the roses, it is always nice to pause and savor their sweet fragrance. Enjoy it while you can lady.
   I say funny not for you feeling like you are finally moving on but because since my return home I am beginning to feel like I'm standing still. I find myself wondering what I can do next, where do I go from here?

  I am happy for Moni. I really am.

Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 06:31:02 PM
Thank you Kathy, I think some folks know they need GCS very early on as I did. Others, maybe it sneaks up a bit. The truly lucky may be able to not need it.  I wish I knew why it hits so late for some, this tremendous desire. It is a powerful thing whenever it hits. I guess I am thankful I was sure about it. To be on the fence about such a change has got to be tough.

Laurie, is this restlessness a new thing for you? Do you think you cannot be happy just continuing as you are?

I am off to pick up my partner at the airport. I am wearing a dress. I have really been enjoying skirts and dresses since the surgery makes jeans a bit more uncomfortable. I don't get to wear them at work. I am curious to walk among people and see if I feel any different. I have been pretty quarantined recently. Thought I better do that so no one catches my contagious transness. If we are screwing up our military, just image what will happen to the general public.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 31, 2017, 08:26:40 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 06:31:02 PM

Laurie, is this restlessness a new thing for you? Do you think you cannot be happy just continuing as you are?

Moni

  Monica,

  Yes, it is new in that it is transition related. Wanting to get in my truck and drive and go someplace, almost any place is nothing knew, which is why I have done it quite a few times when i can afford it. All those tanks of gas aren't cheap. But this has nothing to do with that. It is strictly transition related. This stagnant feeling is new but my head is flooded with thoughts of becoming Laurie. I haven't really played my gaming obsession, World of Warcraft, since I began this journey. I used to play it 14 -18 hours a day, but now I spend that time on Susan's.

  Do I think I can be happy being stagnant? No. My road trip adventure and going full time have done a lot for me in accepting myself, but I am not there yet. Where ever there is? I know I won't be "there" until I have become comfortable with who I am in  any situation I may encounter and I still have many challenges to go with that. When I stop feeling like a man in a dress, then I might be there. I don't know. But I know I won't get there by staying where I'm at now.

   I don't know if that answers your questions Monica. I don't even know if it answers them for me. Thinking about it makes me feel confused, like I don't know what it is I want. And that might just be true.

Sorry for my rambling in your thread Moni.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on July 31, 2017, 08:56:19 PM
Laurie, about 5 weeks ago you were first stepping out the apartment as yourself. A little farther back than that you weren't out to your sister and she is under the same roof as you. You are in the process of facial hair removal. You could be working on your voice however you haven't had that MAKEOVER yet. You are moving along at a pretty good clip but for now, just decide what you want to tackle next.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 09:23:34 PM
Laurie,
   The fact that you are unsettled is an answer in itself. I think trans feelings/desires are referred to as the 'beast' because it is rather like a hungry animal that takes possession of us. So often it wants more and more. I would say you are saying  backward is no answer. If you move forward all you have to decide is the next step not your whole future. Maybe looking at it this way might take off the pressure/stress.
Monica
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on July 31, 2017, 09:37:35 PM
Laurie you are ahead of me in this so my advice is limited but... would you feel better with an updated ID?  Or start with an updated credit card - I did that with a 3 minute phone call to American Express.  Just some ideas. 

State of Oregon is progressive on ID.  A month ago they started issuing the first gender-neutral driver licenses in the US.  Choices are M, F, X.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 31, 2017, 09:45:53 PM
Okay lets make this the last post about me for now in Monica's thread, I've mentioned this in my own.

Dena - There are a couple things I can do.  Thank you for reminding me I need to look into the voice referral my GT was supposed to make for me. I can do that when I see him on the 14th. Another thing is to see if I can get new glasses without waiting for November because I was not to to go get them ordered after the last prescription was written. It kinda got lost in the shuffle with my retina tear.

Kendra - It has crossed my mind to see if I can get mine revised at Costco. Not sure about a License yet. That a legal document and there may be requirements I don't meet. Needs research.

Moni - No going backwards isn't an option though you did not ask that question. Forward is the direction I need to go yes but I feel I am not moving. Though I likely am albeit slowly. That becoming comfortable is going to take sometime yet I fear. Maybe that's what got me antsy. Maybe my labs will be what the doc want to see and he will up my estradiol again and make me happy. I'm also hoping my T has gone back down I didn't like seeing it at 200.

You can have your thread back Moni Thank you for the loan of it.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on July 31, 2017, 09:53:06 PM
Hi Laurie. Standing still is not so bad. Your transition can wait for you. This is your life, your transition and your call. Staying on your HRT and waiting for direction seems like a prudent course of action. When tou know, you can go. Whatand whereever that decision may take you.
The important thing is to be happy and to do whatever is right for you. I think your heart will tell you what that is when it presents itself.


Edit....oops! I posted this after Laurie posted "no more" ....sorry!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 10:34:35 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on July 31, 2017, 09:53:06 PM
Hi Laurie. Standing still is not so bad. Your transition can wait for you. This is your life, your transition and your call. Staying on your HRT and waiting for direction seems like a prudent course of action. When tou know, you can go. Whatand whereever that decision may take you.
The important thing is to be happy and to do whatever is right for you. I think your heart will tell you what that is when it presents itself.


Edit....oops! I posted this after Laurie posted "no more" ....sorry!
Ohhhhh! You posted after Laurie told you not to. I'm gonna tell.

It was nice to pick up my partner at the airport. I was owning it walking through the airport in my new dress. Caught no bears though. I so love wearing a dress with no 'battle of the bulge' to worry about.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on July 31, 2017, 10:57:00 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on July 31, 2017, 10:34:35 PM
Ohhhhh! You posted after Laurie told you not to. I'm gonna tell.

It was nice to pick up my partner at the airport. I was owning it walking through the airport in my new dress. Caught no bears though. I so love wearing a dress with no 'battle of the bulge' to worry about.

Glad you enjoyed The great Dress Caper Milenie. Wearing a dress or skirt in public is one of those things I am still uncomfortable and self conscious with doing. Hey there is another thing I could be working on. I love them just feel a bit strange wearing them out. I've only done it a few times. Going to the doctor appointments and ct scan on the 14th in a skirt and top may be a good idea.
  I'm sure you rocked it Munndi. Good for you.

And yes I saw your post Lisa thank you for the support, but I need to disagree will the standing still. It's because I feel I am doing just that, that I am feeling restless as Minica puts it. I need to feel like I'm moving forward. It doesn't have to be a big move I just need to feel like I am moving.

  I'm happy you have your partner home with you again Meiny.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 01, 2017, 12:37:40 AM
Moni,

As one of the folks that the need has been sneaking up then mugging me quickly, I think I understand what you are saying. I think I hoped I would not have to follow through but I think it is not a choice for me so much.

As a part of my progression I have to break Laurie's rule again. I had that feeling for about a year starting at 4 months of HRT. I was restless and wanting to continue and yet terrified. I had hoped to transition at a glacial pace but it seems that beastie either has a hold of me or, as I said, is mugging me. I hope to joint the illustrious members like dear Moni writing up a topic like this.

Hope you all have a good rest of your week. I have a couple quick trips for the rest of the week.

Take care.

Warmly
Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 01, 2017, 01:25:07 PM
Quote from: Jacqueline on August 01, 2017, 12:37:40 AM
Moni,

As one of the folks that the need has been sneaking up then mugging me quickly, I think I understand what you are saying. I think I hoped I would not have to follow through but I think it is not a choice for me so much.

As a part of my progression I have to break Laurie's rule again. I had that feeling for about a year starting at 4 months of HRT. I was restless and wanting to continue and yet terrified. I had hoped to transition at a glacial pace but it seems that beastie either has a hold of me or, as I said, is mugging me. I hope to joint the illustrious members like dear Moni writing up a topic like this.

Hope you all have a good rest of your week. I have a couple quick trips for the rest of the week.

Take care.

Warmly
Jacqui

Laurie's rules don't apply this side of the Great Wall. We are safe here from her 'wildlings' and 'white walkers.'
Skirts are a good first step, dresses are tougher. Don't know why.

The idea of transitioning as slow as one would like, now there is a poll question. I have to think, unless circumstances prevent it, that there aren't many transitioners who do so as slow as they originally planned once the process has started. It ran over me like a freight train.

Illustrious? Does that mean getting one's head put on the Trans Mount Rushmore?
Moni

Anyone think going from fully in blue to fully in green would take quite a while? If I get green in all the  way, I hope I can drop blue. Hate to wash three. Orange is a 'pipe dream' at this point.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 02, 2017, 10:00:55 PM
Quote from: Laurie on July 31, 2017, 08:26:40 PM
  Monica,

  Yes, it is new in that it is transition related. Wanting to get in my truck and drive and go someplace, almost any place is nothing knew, which is why I have done it quite a few times when i can afford it. All those tanks of gas aren't cheap. But this has nothing to do with that. It is strictly transition related. This stagnant feeling is new but my head is flooded with thoughts of becoming Laurie. I haven't really played my gaming obsession, World of Warcraft, since I began this journey. I used to play it 14 -18 hours a day, but now I spend that time on Susan's.

  Do I think I can be happy being stagnant? No. My road trip adventure and going full time have done a lot for me in accepting myself, but I am not there yet. Where ever there is? I know I won't be "there" until I have become comfortable with who I am in  any situation I may encounter and I still have many challenges to go with that. When I stop feeling like a man in a dress, then I might be there. I don't know. But I know I won't get there by staying where I'm at now.

   I don't know if that answers your questions Monica. I don't even know if it answers them for me. Thinking about it makes me feel confused, like I don't know what it is I want. And that might just be true.

Sorry for my rambling in your thread Moni.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Laurie,
   I think I may be experiencing the same thing that you have been lately. For me, although not all of it was pleasant, there was a lot of excitement with surgery, family visiting, and the lovely support from my wonderful friends. (You know who you are.) It is probably similar to the excitement of your trip. Real life begins again at some point though. It is an adjustment just like it was gearing up to the craziness. I think Anne is experiencing a little of that part now. I don't think it is depression as much as it is adjusting. I was wondering if you are better. I know in three weeks my isolation, sitting on the couch a lot adventure ends, work begins, and a different adjustment happens. My neighbor told me yesterday that she was retiring. I almost felt sorry for her because of the lost look on her face. We all  need a purpose, something to drive us to get up each day. I hope you figure out your next mountain to climb. I thought after this surgery, I might not be craving seeking out a next move, transgender wise. I don't have the same desperate urgency as before, but there are still a few dysphoria skeletons in the closet. I still feel the  drive to move forward.
Moni
Wow, we have to stop meeting like this, almost being nice to each other and stuff.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 03, 2017, 12:10:07 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 02, 2017, 10:00:55 PM
Wow, we have to stop meeting like this, almost being nice to each other and stuff.

  Dang it  Maaaunie, I think you might have something here. I mean like if I use your chosen names, someone may think I am actually trying to be serious. I'm not sure I can go all the way to "nice" though.

Hugs,
    Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 03, 2017, 12:58:15 PM
Quote from: Laurie on August 03, 2017, 12:10:07 PM
  Dang it  Maaaunie, I think you might have something here. I mean like if I use your chosen names, someone may think I'm actually am trying to be serious. I'm not sure I can go all the way to "nice" though.

Hugs,
    Laurie
Laurie,
   Oh come on, I have confidence in you, you can't.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 03, 2017, 02:48:25 PM
Not to skirt the issue, but when I wear a dress I've found colors and patterns help hide the fact I haven't done the Win with McGinn thing yet.  White tends to show shape more than black, and just about any pattern is a form of camouflage.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 03, 2017, 07:37:18 PM
Monica, I agree, when I had GCS my genital dysphoria was gone. My desire for other surgeries decreased.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on August 04, 2017, 04:14:16 AM
This is true, other than some hair transplants that I had done about 2 years after my SRS, it's taken me until this year (over 12 years later) to decide to have more surgery, in this case FFS. I know I need revision surgery 'down there' since my SRS didn't work out too good, but I have not had the courage to approach this so far...
Once you have had your SRS/GCS, the urgency to tackle other issues does seem to wane a bit, although I don't think it goes completely.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 04, 2017, 12:30:18 PM
   Hi V, we haven't talked for way too long. I hope you are doing well. I agree with you Rachel that the genital dysphoria is gone. The presence of the birth defect and need for surgery was like a giant hood ornament that I had to try to peek around to try to move down the road of my life. It was perhaps a little part of life that dysphoria magnified. (Of boy, I just realized the soft ball I have thrown up to the jokers.) It was a big change for me and I am extremely grateful to be able to have things made right. Yesterday afternoon was proof that the dysphoria, although lessened a lot, is not gone all the way. (My intention here is to report my experience even if I sound like a spoiled brat.) I was very tired to start, but we decided to get out, be with people. My partner and I started into a very honest, personal conversation related to the trans issue. It left us both in tears, but was not argumentative, just very emotional. I got very reflective of how much being trans has made things that most people find simple, so damned complicated. It has been a difficult thing for me to deal with in my life, but when I saw the pain it causes my loved ones, I ended up with the feeling of hating the fact that I am trans. It is not a feeling I have that often now, I usually just know and accept that that is me. So, we went shopping anyway. I need to find a cot to dilate at work and get some work clothes. When I was changing, I got a look at the top of my head and how thin it is, and along with everything else, it kicked in the dysphoria again. I mean after a good night sleep, I feel good today. I don't feel the crazy urgency like for the GCS, but I realize I will still have a bit of dysphoria pushing me to get some things done. Like you experienced Rachel, when you were told you needed to live life and not concentrate on surgeries, it is easy for an outsider to make that comment. They don't live our life. If I have the ability, I will make an effort to eliminate some things that bother me. I will know when to stop. Having the GCS has made it so much better for my self image. It didn't cure my presentation issues, but it makes it easier to live happier.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 04, 2017, 01:07:16 PM
 Hey you, Myna? Myrna? Maona Loa?

  I  heard you had a problem with a particular hood ornament that used to be quite ummm large (snicker snicker). Can I take a look?  Oh WOW your ornament now has a hood of it's own and it's such a tiny thing...
;D ;) ;) ;D :angel:

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 04, 2017, 02:27:44 PM
I'm hoping the Surgery takes away that niggling bitch in my mind that rears her ugly head and calls me a fraud.  Intellectually,  I know it's simply not true.  But she is there and sneaking about and comes at the most inopportune of times. I guess I will equate the sugery to "slaying the dragon". I'm very much looking forward to the validation it will provide and it's so good to have all the successful women chime in your thread to share what it's meant for them. Sometimes this site and you guys help stoke my passion to rekindle the fire that I felt when I just began this journey. Reading anecdotes about the real life value something like this brings is such a wonderful resource to have and revisit. Thanks to all who have shared. It's very helpful.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 04, 2017, 08:31:00 PM
When I had my BA check up with Dr. McGinn she said to me I am still in transition, I am. GCS eliminated my genital dysphoria but not all my dysphoria was genital dysphoria. I have hair, voice and body dysphoria too. There is only so much I can have corrected with a knife and a saw. At some point I need to live my life as Dr. McGinn and Chrystal said. I am not at that point. Instead, I am looking for alternatives. Lower cost electrolysis, FFS and body fat contouring. I look at the money I spent for FFS and wish I had done it in an Asian country for  fraction of the cost. Not to save money but to get more done.

Do I need to stand back and get perspective or am I finally just accepting I am all in. Where is the law of diminishing return.

Monica, I have caused a heavy toll on my family emotionally. Something I can not just pretend did not happen. I have been through a lot of physical and emotional pain too. There are a lot of things I do not know but one thing I do know is that I do not want to be defined by the number of procedures or the never ending pursuit of perfection. Two questions, could I live with the current rendition? Perhaps. Am I on the verge of crossing a line? Perhaps.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 04, 2017, 09:19:05 PM
    When I post I hope it has some sort of meaning to someone in some way. I try to give not only the factual side of an event but the emotions involved also. I have really appreciated the input that so many have offered here. Transition is a journey that so many of us share, with all of us at different stages. I have benefited so much from the advice from those who have done this ahead of me. Now,  Jentay, you went and got me all philosophical and stuff. 

   Speaking of the more  experienced out there, I have a few  questions if anyone has any thoughts.

   I wonder if ladies have found it necessary to use the orange dilator or is it common to stop at #3 the green. I was wondering if orange is overkill for most. It looks mighty intimidating.

   I am not sure what to think, so I will throw this out there. I lost probably 10 pounds at surgery time. I have gained it all back. I know I no longer have the testosterone directing fat distribution. My butt seems to have a different, fuller feel to it. I chalk some up to possible swelling still, but it really feels like that is not all of it. I would love to think the weight went to my butt, but don't know if that is logical. I know I didn't go to the boobs or stomach.

   One last one! I am on lower level estrogen something like 2/3 of before surgery. I was off E for 4 weeks for surgery(2 weeks before and after). I seem to be experiencing things I didn't expect with having no T any more. I have faster beard growth (what is left of it), I seem to have guy underarm smell which hasn't gone away with reintroduction of E, and my hair seems a little oilier quicker. I don't know if this is caused by no spiro or what. Anyone experience any of this?

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 04, 2017, 09:35:15 PM
I experienced a big increase in body odor up to about week 7. It felt decidedly like my old masculine scent that had gone away with HRT. Once I got past the difficult parts of healing my scent returned to its more feminine place and has stayed there.

P.s.
Happily all of my clothing was selected for having room to move freely. HRT has made my butt bigger however everything still fits and my waist is somewhat smaller than before.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 04, 2017, 09:35:24 PM
Rachel,
   I don't think either of us should be ashamed of what we had to do to be ourselves.  I don't think either of us is a surgery addict. As for your family, I seem to remember a price that you paid from them for there non acceptance. That is on them. Non acceptance is a choice they made, not you.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 05, 2017, 04:32:54 PM
I was on spiro up to 2 days before GCS. My T was not detectable for a long time prior to GCS so T was not an issue. I could not shower until I had my packing out so it was a week of being self conscious about odor. My hair was not oily after GCS.

I felt my emotions return when I went back on E. It took a few weeks to get back to "normal".  I am on a strong transition dose of E injectable.

At some point after GCS Dr. McGinn prescribed T and I used 1/2 dose. I had a blood test and was at 80 ng/dl and my PAC and I agreed the mental anguish and higher than 30 ng/dl Dr. McGinn was aiming for meant not using T. I reviewed it with Dr. McGinn at one of my check-ups. She talked about libido, bones and orgasm and I discussed loss of hair and fear of T and that it was on my mind very often in a not good way. I have an appointment in 2 weeks for a blood test and I will see if my T is in the low 20 to 30 ng/dl range. If not I may need T.

I use purple 5 minutes and orange 25 minute. Orange is 1.5 inched diameter and only 1/4 of an inch larger than green. I have an icicle dildo the is a bit larger than orange and I want to use that. I have fear of causing damage but I think it is just fear. I have 2 areas at the bottom on my vagina that had opened up (Dr. McGinn has seen) since early on and they heal and expanded the vagina opening. There are a lot of didoes out there and some are large. I have another GCS procedure in November to close off my bottom below my vagina, the last was to make my clitoral hood, so I want to use the large icicle before the procedure.

There are a lot of sex shops in and around the gayborhood and there are a few lesbian owned ( it really helps to have a transman therapist) and they have some good toys and lube applicators. I feel totally comfortable going over my needs with them and picking out a toy. They really know their product and are very helpful.



Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 05, 2017, 07:34:06 PM
I guess I've been using green for 3 weeks now and had a go at orange the other day, it wasn't awful but I don't feel a need to push it too fast. On the other hand green so far really only prepares me for the smallest toys I have.

Wittenberg says to use green for 3 months before stepping up larger and I may start at 2 months. I definitely want to be able able​ to use larger toys so ultimately orange may not be big enough.

Hugs (size queen)

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 05, 2017, 08:24:11 PM
Thanks Rachel and Sadie, the reason I asked was that Dr. McGinn made an off hand comment about maybe stopping at Green. I worry about tearing the lower area also. I have gained at least one dot since I got the okay to push harder. Close to last dot now. Also, green now goes in as far as blue did. I didn't have to warm up with blue this morning I just went to green from purple. Blue might have seen  its usefulness end.
One more note. I have been using scar strips on the side scars. The scars look smooth and I noticed they stop any rubbing from pads or panties. It protects them, are easy to clean, and are reusable.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 05, 2017, 09:21:43 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 05, 2017, 08:24:11 PM
. I have been using scar strips on the side scars. The scars look smooth and I noticed they stop any rubbing from pads or panties. It protects them, are easy to clean, and are reusable.
Moni

Cool....that's awesomely useful info. Thanks, Moni!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 05, 2017, 11:55:01 PM
Jentay,
  This was the only scar treatment approved by Dr. McGinn. After FFS I was given a pump bottle of Siligen. It is like a cream to spread on the scars. I couldn't tell if it did any good. Then again, that situation was a disaster from day one. The strips are much easier especially for big areas.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 06, 2017, 12:53:37 AM
Well...it's definitely something I'll use after my surgery. I hadn't even tgought of those. Thanks again!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 06, 2017, 01:36:32 PM
Hi Monica, are the scar strips the silicone strips? Dr. McGinn recommends them. Do you know it they work on hyper-pigmentation? My scars that are about a foot each in my leg crease are hyper pigmented. It could be looked at as a directional arrow :)  .

If you use the orange dilator, go slow and be patient. Use enough lube when breaking it in.

I am at the second to last dot. I measure it as the point where there is a dry spot which lands on the second to last dot. How do you measure depth?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 06, 2017, 04:26:56 PM
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on August 06, 2017, 01:36:32 PM
Hi Monica, are the scar strips the silicone strips? Dr. McGinn recommends them. Do you know it they work on hyper-pigmentation? My scars that are about a foot each in my leg crease are hyper pigmented. It could be looked at as a directional arrow :)  .

If you use the orange dilator, go slow and be patient. Use enough lube when breaking it in.

I am at the second to last dot. I measure it as the point where there is a dry spot which lands on the second to last dot. How do you measure depth?
Hi Rachel,
   Yes, they are the silicone strips. I don't know about the hyper pigmentation as you call it. I have used the topical Arnica on some of my FFS scarring and it seemed to help lighten. I haven't tried that in the lower area scars as I am still under her supervision. I see her Wednesday. (Hope to visit Terri after)
   I measure using the mirror to look straight down. I figure if I see a dot it is outside, don't see it it is inside. I am a dot different from purple to blue. I do think the more force has gained some depth. I take my time with green as I am sure I will with orange.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on August 07, 2017, 06:46:07 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 04, 2017, 12:30:18 PM
   Hi V, we haven't talked for way too long. I hope you are doing well. I agree with you Rachel that the genital dysphoria is gone. The presence of the birth defect and need for surgery was like a giant hood ornament that I had to try to peek around to try to move down the road of my life. It was perhaps a little part of life that dysphoria magnified. (Of boy, I just realized the soft ball I have thrown up to the jokers.) It was a big change for me and I am extremely grateful to be able to have things made right. Yesterday afternoon was proof that the dysphoria, although lessened a lot, is not gone all the way. (My intention here is to report my experience even if I sound like a spoiled brat.) I was very tired to start, but we decided to get out, be with people. My partner and I started into a very honest, personal conversation related to the trans issue. It left us both in tears, but was not argumentative, just very emotional. I got very reflective of how much being trans has made things that most people find simple, so damned complicated. It has been a difficult thing for me to deal with in my life, but when I saw the pain it causes my loved ones, I ended up with the feeling of hating the fact that I am trans. It is not a feeling I have that often now, I usually just know and accept that that is me. So, we went shopping anyway. I need to find a cot to dilate at work and get some work clothes. When I was changing, I got a look at the top of my head and how thin it is, and along with everything else, it kicked in the dysphoria again. I mean after a good night sleep, I feel good today. I don't feel the crazy urgency like for the GCS, but I realize I will still have a bit of dysphoria pushing me to get some things done. Like you experienced Rachel, when you were told you needed to live life and not concentrate on surgeries, it is easy for an outsider to make that comment. They don't live our life. If I have the ability, I will make an effort to eliminate some things that bother me. I will know when to stop. Having the GCS has made it so much better for my self image. It didn't cure my presentation issues, but it makes it easier to live happier.
Moni

Hi Moni,

Glad to read that things are progressing well for you. I'm so happy for you!
I'm OK, just twiddling my thumbs waiting for my upcoming FFS.
Watching the £ collapse against the Euro and seeing the cost of my surgery go up every day  >:(
Being trans sure does make some things more complicated, things that cis-folk take for granted.
I have exactly the same experience as you when I go to clothes shops and use the changing rooms. The myriad of mirrors in the rooms allow views of my body from a variety of angles that simply aren't available at home with a standard dress mirror. And of course I can see my head from behind and at 3/4 view, and see the thinning hair in all it's awful state. So I know what you mean about that.
I am not sure that even with multiple hair transplant sessions, it would get to a point that I could be happy with it.
I often wonder if there is a point that Gender Dysphoria can give way to Body Dysphoria? I am having FFS in a few months time, which will include some more hair transplant work, but I'm already thinking about whether to plan for further hair transplants, if after further year, the recent ones aren't enough. Then there's the question about whether I can put myself through revision surgery to tackle my failed SRS. I ponder about voice surgery too because my voice isn't the best by a long shot. Plus I could benefit from BA and some fat transfer procedures. And even if I did elect to go through all that lot, there's the chance that I would have to have revision surgery to tweak and correct any issues that may then arise.
But then I still have broad shoulders, narrow hips, pretty awful legs, wide feet, and so on...
Where does one stop?
I try to listen to my boyfriend because he says I don't need to have all these additional surgeries, but he is not trans, so he doesn't have the insight, but he also doesn't have the paranoia that I have either.
There must be a point where it's the right time to stop with the surgeries, and just be happy with what one has.
When you find that point Moni, let me know how to spot it, so I can think about other things instead.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on August 07, 2017, 03:57:11 PM
Mini haha I am so glad not to have raving dysphoria , yes I need bottom surgery and breasts and I hope the HRT works a bit on my face, Watching The Heat movie and would prefer to look like Sandra Bullock but TBH would be happy with the Melinda Macarthy . OK so have low expectations and I can feel for you girls with high hopes. Keep up with the good work , sounds like its coming together. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 05:06:42 PM
   Thank you  V, I am not trying to discount your feelings when I say that if I looked like you I would be close to stopping. The GCS revision would be my focus, I imagine. I can't put myself in anyone else's shoes and I won't try to do it for you (as we have discussed before). Being older with thinner hair, I worry about being too thin in the back after they take the donor hair. I have never heard anyone mention this thought.
   It  is a fact that being transgender means making compromises. We were not born with the body matching the brain. I will never look down on whatever someone must do. The steps I have taken already have definitely made me happier. I will do more and find where my livable compromise is at some point.
   Davina, or should I say "Davernia," you too with the names, Hon? Well I am glad you don't have the raving dysphoria. I think that would be quite an advantage. Melissa MaCarthy is kind of cute, not a bad choice. I prefer to think  I have mid, upper level expectations but on a lower scale and in moderation.(Don't ask me to repeat that.)
   I spoke to Maybebaby, Terri a bit ago. Her surgery is tomorrow. She is at that point where she just wants it done. Not sure if she has posted since I think she may have eaten her phone by now. (Two days no food) Anyway Terri, Good Luck, call me when you want and see you Wednesday.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 07, 2017, 05:12:10 PM
I was going to call Terri and wish her luck,but decided she was probably on her last good nerve...lol. Thought I'd leave it alone touch base with her when she's done.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 06:33:41 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on August 07, 2017, 05:12:10 PM
I was going to call Terri and wish her luck,but decided she was probably on her last good nerve...lol. Thought I'd leave it alone touch base with her when she's done.
J.
I would consider texting and asking if she wants to chat. She told me she was bored. She might like the distraction from things like tomorrow.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 06:44:59 PM
I had a sign that the hormones might be kicking in. My legs have been dry and very itchy the last few days. I remember the E causing that before. The underarm, guy smell seems less too. I used to not need deodorant, it seemed so neutral before.
I see McGinn Wed. for 6 week and have my first electrolysis on Saturday. I promised she could see the result of the surgery. After all, she did a great job getting the area ready down there. The hair that is left seems to be just in the right spot. (Knock on wood.) Face removal is next.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on August 07, 2017, 07:05:26 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 06:44:59 PM
I had a sign that the hormones might be kicking in. My legs have been dry and very itchy the last few days. I remember the E causing that before.

So that's what it is!  I have been plagued by this the last few months. I have scratch marks all over my legs

~Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: debrferguson on August 07, 2017, 07:38:34 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 06:44:59 PM
I see McGinn Wed. for 6 week and have my first electrolysis on Saturday. I promised she could see the result of the surgery. After all, she did a great job getting the area ready down there. The hair that is left seems to be just in the right spot. (Knock on wood.) Face removal is next.
Moni
Hi Moni!

I didn't do any electrolysis down there, so I'm not quite sure what just the right spots are... things look ok to me, but i haven't been with a hundred women either... Can you explain a bit more?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 07, 2017, 08:17:57 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 06:44:59 PM
> The hair that is left seems to be just in the right spot. (Knock on wood.)
I see you are busy tossing puns when you think nobody is looking.  Clyde is out of reach anyway.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on August 07, 2017, 08:40:49 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 06:44:59 PM
I had a sign that the hormones might be kicking in. My legs have been dry and very itchy the last few days. I remember the E causing that before. The underarm, guy smell seems less too. I used to not need deodorant, it seemed so neutral before.
I see McGinn Wed. for 6 week and have my first electrolysis on Saturday. I promised she could see the result of the surgery. After all, she did a great job getting the area ready down there. The hair that is left seems to be just in the right spot. (Knock on wood.) Face removal is next.
Moni
So gcs before facial hair?  I only ask because I am scheduled with Dr. McGinn in February and still need to get my face & surgery site done.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 07, 2017, 08:56:16 PM
My electrologist went rather overboard and I daresay I have a more or less permanent Brazilian. Happily I'm OK with that, I didn't much like shaving that skin in its old configuration :-/.

Glad if you're progressing with facial Moni, maybe someday here but probably not and it's financially out of reach for the foreseeable.

Huggles

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 10:12:23 PM
Terri, go to sleep! I think you have something to do tomorrow. My theory is the lack of T or the addition of E dries your skin out and makes you scratch. I am no scientist, but it is the same feeling I had when the hormones where doing their hormone thing. The under arm smell is definitely due to hormones. I moisturize the legs and it helps.

Debbie, hi Hon! I had extensive electrolysis down south. The area that was above the penis, now above the vagina, is the only spot I have hair. I was very concerned about hair in the vagina. If it does form, it will be very fine hairs.

Kendra, you got me on that one. It was quite unintentional. Why does the name Clyde ring a bell?

TechGirl, I would personally throw all the electrolysis at the surgery site. The face can wait, but the lower area takes time to do. I started a year out. The hairs start getting finer as you go, so it takes more time to get them. Dr. McGinn emailed a picture of what areas should be done. She can scrape follicles but that takes time and you are under anesthesia  longer.

Sadie, I don't have much of anything down there which I like. The only positive to hair is hiding scars in my opinion.  I think the lack of hair is considerate to a partner also, pleasure wise.
Moni

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 07, 2017, 10:48:57 PM
I get the darned scratchy dry leg thing. I thought it was a bad reaction to the Spiro, though? Hmmmmm.......another mystery.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 11:55:34 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on August 07, 2017, 10:48:57 PM
I get the darned scratchy dry leg thing. I thought it was a bad reaction to the Spiro, though? Hmmmmm.......another mystery.
Well, in my case, I am off Spiro 6 weeks now and had the itch in the last few days.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 08, 2017, 12:00:35 AM
Maybe Dr. McGinn would know something about it?  I'm sure she's seen it all.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 08, 2017, 12:01:45 AM
Feel like I've had the itch for about 50 years. Oh, wrong one, huh?

;)

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on August 08, 2017, 06:21:40 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 05:06:42 PM
   Thank you  V, I am not trying to discount your feelings when I say that if I looked like you I would be close to stopping. The GCS revision would be my focus, I imagine. I can't put myself in anyone else's shoes and I won't try to do it for you (as we have discussed before). Being older with thinner hair, I worry about being too thin in the back after they take the donor hair. I have never heard anyone mention this thought.
   It  is a fact that being transgender means making compromises. We were not born with the body matching the brain. I will never look down on whatever someone must do. The steps I have taken already have definitely made me happier. I will do more and find where my livable compromise is at some point.
   Davina, or should I say "Davernia," you too with the names, Hon? Well I am glad you don't have the raving dysphoria. I think that would be quite an advantage. Melissa MaCarthy is kind of cute, not a bad choice. I prefer to think  I have mid, upper level expectations but on a lower scale and in moderation.(Don't ask me to repeat that.)
   I spoke to Maybebaby, Terri a bit ago. Her surgery is tomorrow. She is at that point where she just wants it done. Not sure if she has posted since I think she may have eaten her phone by now. (Two days no food) Anyway Terri, Good Luck, call me when you want and see you Wednesday.
Moni

Hi Moni, Yeah I remember we chatted about this a fair bit. My memory isn't the best these days...  ;D
You write wise words as usual. 'Livable compromise' is something to aim for, that's right.
I was also worried about not having enough hair at the back of my head for more hair transplants, so I went to see a specialist and they checked the hair density and said that I would be fine for one more session of 2000 follicles if I wished. This is in addition to that done during the FFS, so it's good to have that 'in reserve' I guess.

I could not have gone full-time before I had hair removal (with IPL) on my face and chest. As I'm fair skinned and rather pale but with dark hair, the beard shadow and forest of hair on my chest were just too visible without shaving a lot and using tons of concealer. So I had about 2 years of hair removal treatment in these areas before I went full time.
The Thai SRS surgeon I went to said I didn't need to have any hair removal 'down there', because he scrapes away all the hair follicles during the procedures. With hindsight this was not a good idea, because I now have hair inside my vagina, and I can tell you it's really not nice at all, and there's not a lot I can do about it. So my advice is to get as much hair removal work done as possible can before any GCS op, as Moni says.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 08, 2017, 10:29:02 AM
Quote from: V on August 08, 2017, 06:21:40 AM
Hi Moni, Yeah I remember we chatted about this a fair bit. My memory isn't the best these days...  ;D
You write wise words as usual. 'Livable compromise' is something to aim for, that's right.
I was also worried about not having enough hair at the back of my head for more hair transplants, so I went to see a specialist and they checked the hair density and said that I would be fine for one more session of 2000 follicles if I wished. This is in addition to that done during the FFS, so it's good to have that 'in reserve' I guess.

I could not have gone full-time before I had hair removal (with IPL) on my face and chest. As I'm fair skinned and rather pale but with dark hair, the beard shadow and forest of hair on my chest were just too visible without shaving a lot and using tons of concealer. So I had about 2 years of hair removal treatment in these areas before I went full time.
The Thai SRS surgeon I went to said I didn't need to have any hair removal 'down there', because he scrapes away all the hair follicles during the procedures. With hindsight this was not a good idea, because I now have hair inside my vagina, and I can tell you it's really not nice at all, and there's not a lot I can do about it. So my advice is to get as much hair removal work done as possible can before any GCS op, as Moni says.


I heard from Terri about 4AM this morning. She didn't sleep much but was not nervous about going today. She is done by now I suspect, being the first surgery of the day. GO TERRI!
   
I wonder if some surgeons would be tempted to say you don't need hair removal down there just to get the business. After all there are no repercussions for them if you later have some hair in the vagina.
V, we also talked  about my messed up eye from FFS. I go for that next week. It will be done with a local and  by a different surgeon. I would never let the FFS surgeon ever touch me again. I hate that I have to pay to fix her mess up.

Jentay, I will add it to my question list.

Jacqui, well scratch it Hon!

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 08, 2017, 03:17:59 PM
Spoke to the always lovely, Terri. Actually, texted her and she texted back. She's out, well, feeling good and moving along. Her sense of humor was intact so I suspect all went swimmingly...yay!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on August 08, 2017, 04:23:33 PM


Quote from: HappyMoni on August 07, 2017, 10:12:23 PM
TechGirl, I would personally throw all the electrolysis at the surgery site. The face can wait, but the lower area takes time to do. I started a year out. The hairs start getting finer as you go, so it takes more time to get them. Dr. McGinn emailed a picture of what areas should be done. She can scrape follicles but that takes time and you are under anesthesia  longer.

Moni,

Thank you. I'm still active military, which has led to a little craziness with my transition.  I still need to put on the "mask" of shaving, heavy makeup, & wig for society to see the true me.

Hormones have worked wonders, but they can't work miracles for us 40-something girls.

Thankfully, gcs is wonderfully on track and WILL happen, despite the opinions of "certain" persons in our government (nuff said on them).

And Dr. McGinn has been amazing to work with, given the military factor. Looking forward to crossing her table [emoji5]
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 08, 2017, 06:57:54 PM
Good news about Terri.

Monica, did I read that you will see her Monday?

TechGirl, thank you for your service. I love Dr. McGinn, she has been absolutely wonderful to me. November 20th should be the last GCS procedure I have with her, fingers crossed. I hope she can help you too. She went above and beyond.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on August 09, 2017, 04:07:24 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 08, 2017, 10:29:02 AM

I wonder if some surgeons would be tempted to say you don't need hair removal down there just to get the business. After all there are no repercussions for them if you later have some hair in the vagina.
V, we also talked  about my messed up eye from FFS. I go for that next week. It will be done with a local and  by a different surgeon. I would never let the FFS surgeon ever touch me again. I hate that I have to pay to fix her mess up.

Moni

The whole 'no repercussions' thing really sucks.
Glad to hear you are getting your eye done. Hopefully this time all will go well, and you'll be able to put that whole saga behind you. I couldn't think about letting my SRS surgeon 'have another go' on me, so I fully understand you. Plus, it would set me back around $22K, which I don't have, so there's that too...
Speaking of eyes, I bought some big sunglasses the other day, ready for when I have my FFS, to hide the inevitable bruising. What we go through eh...?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 09, 2017, 01:27:13 PM
Quote from: V on August 09, 2017, 04:07:24 AM

Speaking of eyes, I bought some big sunglasses the other day, ready for when I have my FFS, to hide the inevitable bruising. What we go through eh...?

  Your mention of big sunglasses reminded me of how I envied the girls and ladies that could wear those. I still wish I could but I would need them to be prescription which severely limits things. Heck, I haven't even gotten ladies frames for my normal every day use. It is on my to do list.

  There are soooo many things I wished I could have or done over the years. Many are long gone from being possible and others I may yet be able to do now if I can but remember them.  :( :(

  I'm sorry  for those that have experienced less than good results with there various surgeries. Tis truly a sad thing.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 09, 2017, 01:48:45 PM
Quote from: Laurie on August 09, 2017, 01:27:13 PM
  Your mention of big sunglasses reminded me of how I envied the girls and ladies that could wear those. I still wish I could but I would need them to be prescription which severely limits things.   
Hugs,
   Laurie

How come? Can't you just take your prescription in, pick some frames and have em' make you a pair?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 09, 2017, 08:28:25 PM
Quote from: jentay1367 on August 09, 2017, 01:48:45 PM
How come? Can't you just take your prescription in, pick some frames and have em' make you a pair?

  Well I suppose I could, but I can get free glasses through the VA every 2 years. That time comes again in November when I'll also get a new prescription.  Getting the prescription from them now doesn't make much sense with November on the horizon. Plus the money I would spend by having some made elsewhere I'm currently spending on electrolysis. I'm cheap remember?  Someone else suggested in my own thread contacts. They would solve two problems if I can get them. I'll have to look into it.
  Excuses, I got a million of 'em...
  Thanks Lisa

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: jentay1367 on August 09, 2017, 09:03:39 PM
Hey Laurie, totally true....and genius! You get contacts and then you can get all the awesome sunglasses you want! I get em' at thrift stores for like next to nothing. Best thrift stores are ones in pricey neighborhoods. Rich folks dump stuff all the time there and you can get all kinds of groovy designer stuff for next to nothing. It's awesome!

Excuse me Moni....I'll give your thread back now :embarrassed:

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on August 10, 2017, 09:52:08 AM
Prescription sunglasses?  Pardon the plug-like nature of this, but I've been buying my glasses through Zenni Optical.  They are really low priced, like my everyday outdoor glasses (distance + astigmatism) cost me about $15, and my big cat-eye progressive lens pair was about $56.  You'll need your prescription and your inter-pupil distance (usually measured and not disclosed by the sales desk, but your optometrist can give you the measurement if you ask during the exam...).

I'd order a cheapie pair first to make sure you and they have the prescription right, then go for the humongous sunglasses.

Now back to dishing on GCS...
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 10, 2017, 10:12:56 AM
Quote from: Michelle_P on August 10, 2017, 09:52:08 AM
Prescription sunglasses?  Pardon the plug-like nature of this, but I've been buying my glasses through Zenni Optical.  They are really low priced, like my everyday outdoor glasses (distance + astigmatism) cost me about $15, and my big cat-eye progressive lens pair was about $56.  You'll need your prescription and your inter-pupil distance (usually measured and not disclosed by the sales desk, but your optometrist can give you the measurement if you ask during the exam...).

I'd order a cheapie pair first to make sure you and they have the prescription right, then go for the humongous sunglasses.

Now back to dishing on GCS...

  Thanks for the tip Michelle.

Minica: Sorry, it seems I've derailed your thread again.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 10, 2017, 11:24:09 AM
That's alright with me with derailing a bit. It kind of reminds me of when I was a kid. Sometimes the kids would play in my yard sometimes we would play in a friend's yard. The unfulfilled thought that comes to mind is playing imaginary or role playing games and just about busting because I couldn't play a female character. So, we would play army men practicing our dramatic dying, climbing up a three foot tall hill. You know macho crap.
The sunglasses thing is relevant to the thread. I am looking for a pair for my new best friend when we go sunbathing at the nude beach next year. Only need one lens though. I see the next topic for discussion with be vagina monocles. Hey, that sounds like a good name for a play. Nah!
Moni
I will write about the doctor visit in a bit, it seems my well has sprung a leak and my front yard is all wet. Oh, that sounds like a terrible euphemism. Well, maybe no one will notice.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 10, 2017, 11:36:14 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 10, 2017, 11:24:09 AM

The sunglasses thing is relevant to the thread. I am looking for a pair for my new best friend when we go sunbathing at the nude beach next year.
Moni


We're going to a nude beach!!! I've never been to one!! I wonder if they will allow a beached white whale? /sigh

Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 10, 2017, 11:41:40 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 10, 2017, 11:24:09 AM
...
I will write about the doctor visit in a bit, it seems my well has sprung a leak and my front yard is all wet. Oh, that sounds like a terrible euphemism. Well, maybe no one will notice.

Ummm. Not to be rude but how? You might as well put up a blinking sign with flashing arrows on your post....  ;)

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 10, 2017, 04:58:52 PM
Moni I hope you, well, are well. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 10, 2017, 05:22:35 PM
   I went for my six week post op check up yesterday. I didn't see the doctor but saw Brianna. I was actually very happy with the visit as she was able to spend a lot of time and she very pleasantly walked me through a lot. I am very fortunate in that things are looking very good. My behind is still swollen, but I figure this goes with the territory of healing, and I didn't mention it. She talked more about how things get rearranged in the surgery. The areas that turned black did so because it is impossible to retain blood flow to every tissue. With no blood flow, the tissue dies off. It turns black  then white as collagen (and other stuff) forms around it. They left it in place earlier since it protects the new tissue under it. Now I am to stuff the coarser type gauze in that area in between the dilations and urinations. It is abrasive enough to start removing the white stuff gradually. When it is gone, I will be allowed to swim. I have been taken off lifting restrictions also. I did have some granulation and some small scar tissue that she found. She treated the granulation with silver nitrate which isn't painful but it does kind of burn a little later on. (The silver nitrate looks like the big wooden matches you start fires with.) After the silver nitrate treatment, the white stuff really started coming off.  For the scar tissue, I am to put hydrocortisone on twice a day. The actual appearance of the vulva will be discussed at the 6 month follow up. They are correct that things do continue to change as time goes on. The big change is I can go to 3 times a day from 5 times a day with dilations. In 3 or 4 days I can start #4, orange. They wanted 2 weeks on the green before advancing. I will probably still do 4 times a day while I am off work in order to try to work up to the orange. It seems a bit scary to me to be honest. The other step ups in size have not been that scary.  4 times is so much different than 5 times.
   I did see Terri at the hospital on my way home. It was weird because she had the same room I had with my surgery. We visited for a while til she kicked us out. She is tired just like I was. I will let her tell any more than that as it is her story to tell, not mine.
   TechGirl, from the news I hear it is a good thing to be with McGinn if you are involved with the military.
   Jacqui, if they miss my blinking sign they may see your neon beacon. Now that wasn't rude was it? lol
   Sorry Laurie, I meant my new 'little' friend. I won't offend anyone who knows me with the sight of this naked body. Of course you and I might just be crazy enough or mean enough to do something like that to someone.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 10, 2017, 05:29:25 PM
Congratulation's Moni! I'm so glad things are going nicely for you. It's good to have all thE information you're providing and I'm sure it will be of help to those having future GCS.
Regarding McGinn and Military Personnel:
My understanding is that anyone in McGinn's Que at present that is active Military will receive their surgeries free of charge if this Administration discharges trans personnel.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 10, 2017, 05:33:05 PM
Quote from: Kendra on August 10, 2017, 04:58:52 PM
Moni I hope you, well, are well.
Kendra, are you kidding me? Is that a well well reference? I am a little sensitive about that right now since my well is not well. My well is a bit under the weather. Of course if it wasn't, it might be a dry well. Oh well, all's well that ends well. Oh, such a deep subject. Jacqui, this is your doing!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 10, 2017, 06:15:52 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 10, 2017, 05:33:05 PM
   Kendra, are you kidding me? Is that a well well reference? I am a little sensitive about that right now since my well is not well. My well is a bit under the weather. Of course if it wasn't, it might be a dry well. Oh well, all's well that ends well. Oh, such a deep subject. Jacqui, this is your doing!
Moni

  Well well well.... Nope I'm not touching this one. I'll just let it become water under the bridge and wash my hands of the hole subject as I flush it from my mind. Like the sands of an hourglass, so are the days of our lives.

  Glad all is progressing as it should, Maya. Maya it continue to do so.

  So no nude beach?

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 11, 2017, 11:24:12 AM
QuoteJacqui, this is your doing!

Ya gotta have a hobby...  ;)

Glad to hear you are recovering well (oh no) and getting explanations to some of your earlier worries.

I totally agree with Jessica Lynne (congrats on the new name). I really appreciate the attention to detail you have added to this topic. It will help many soon and into the future.

With warmth,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 11, 2017, 08:48:21 PM
Monica, I am glad you are progressing well. Brianna is awesome.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 11, 2017, 11:11:19 PM
Thanks Rachel, Brianna says she enjoys teaching others. I will try to reciprocate what you sent me in email when I get  a chance here soon.

My deep subject will require bringing in a backhoe. It is another expense on top of a lot of others lately. Oh well!

I started the orange dilator and I can see it needs to go very slowly. I am totally used to green and it felt similar to this at first. The last thing I want is to strain something or tear something. I keep putting all these things in there and have the fear that it  will cause it be open all the time. Guess it is something everyone goes through. Either you worry about this   or that. Just gotta go with the flow. I am told it will change and that has been true. It is hard to not think about whether   it will turn out okay. It is not life and death so I am extremely grateful for that. It is good to keep it in perspective. People deal with horrible things and I am really dealing with nothing.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 12, 2017, 04:14:32 AM
Moni, I'm glad for you working up to orange already! As a confirmed size queen and liver of size queens, I feel so inadequate with my only 2x attempts at orange.

I don't have your anxiety, imx (and having handballed my share of vaginas), I can say my experience has been that they snap back! I've also known a fair number of post-op women who enjoy vaginal fisting. Hugs and damn those torpedoes, full speed ahead! ;-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 12, 2017, 08:30:57 AM
I discovered something new. I have felt sensations since surgery of having like a mini erection. I know, not possible. This morning I am feeling like I have the morning stretching thing, I am laying down doing dilation, and I get this feeling again. I start feeling around and there is a line that sticks up above the surface of the mons. I figure it is where they place the (dorsal?) nerve. It is weird because it feels like it expanded  to create that ridge. Now it is gone and so is the feeling of the mini erection. It doesn't make sense  to me that a nerve could do this. I take it as a good sign for functionality. Don't know if this is typical.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 12, 2017, 10:47:46 AM
I have spoken to others about this. It seems that you can, like natal women get an erection of the clitoris and that if some of the erectile tissue is left it can become engorged. I would think it shows excellent blood circulation and is most probably a very good thing. I've spoken to other TS women that equate it with morning wood and is proof you will eventually be able to orgasm. Yay!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 12, 2017, 11:28:44 AM
I wouldn't say erectile but for sure I can feel where the nerve and blood supply for my neocltoris are placed above the pubic bone.

Some erectile feelings I get are clearly simple sense-memory expecting the old hardware to do what it did. The most prominent feeling at least at first I took to be the small bit of the erectile bodies left behind. I still feel that, maybe less strongly but I can feel something there and I don't mind it. I sorely wish I could have an erectile clitoris, still very happy with what's there. :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 12, 2017, 02:49:12 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on August 12, 2017, 04:14:32 AM
Moni, I'm glad for you working up to orange already! As a confirmed size queen and liver of size queens, I feel so inadequate with my only 2x attempts at orange.


Sadie,
   I don't try orange on the first dilation of the day. I wait for it to loose up. I don't try to go all the way in with it, but try to go a little further each time, if it goes okay. If I went all the way in in one shot, I would probably be hurt. Patience has its rewards.

I know the doctor said that they had to move a lot of fat down to a lower position. I suspect this is an attempt to cover and protect that nerve. The feeling is not just a psychological thing but also a physical thing, stuff changes down there. They say after surgery you really have to relearn your body. I think I am starting this. The doctor's office said I had homework. I have to learn how and if I can climax. Best homework ever!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 12, 2017, 03:50:33 PM
I had to relearn how to orgasm. At first it took a while but now it is fairly quick after I am in the mood. If anyone needs help I can explain what I learned.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 12, 2017, 04:20:02 PM
Rachel,
   I am not sure I am ready physically, but I am open to all advice. Somehow I think because of the differences in our surgeries that you will  have an easier time. The whole nerve ending difference. More of yours were preserved I imagine.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on August 12, 2017, 04:29:18 PM
no wonder your nervous if the size of your orange thing is the same as the orange thing I had for tea tonight, one of Harvey's I think (ok a carrot) 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 12, 2017, 05:04:06 PM
Davina, I haven't seen Harvey for months. Is he visiting you? You two been hanging out at the pubs again? Well, to answer your comment, my orange thang is bigger than Harvey's carrots. I know that bugs him but in truth he prefers martini's anyway.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 13, 2017, 04:23:13 AM
Yeah, I know what you mean. I mean you'ld think the height would be what you notice. Really it's how specific he is about his martini ingredients. Damn, that bunny can drink.    ;)


Warmly

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 14, 2017, 07:05:53 PM
Moni you might enjoy the following thread which gets more interesting about a half dozen posts down.  When biology meets product technology and things you no longer have to deal with.  Perhaps. 
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,224942.0/topicseen.html
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 14, 2017, 07:31:13 PM
Thanks Kendra, I enjoyed that. I will admit to being a little naive, well maybe a lot. I don't know exactly what camel toe is and what it would look like in a vulva. I am not sure if that describes me or not. I asked my partner and all she could say was, "Something! I don't know." Somebody educate me please.
Moni
I had my car worked on today, and I was telling a friend, "I had my trans serviced today. It doesn't come with a dipstick."  I didn't realize til I was done typing that it accurately described both me and my car. Really!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on August 14, 2017, 07:42:11 PM
If you google camel toe, all your questions will be answered. Some of the images are almost to the point that I question posting them on the site.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 14, 2017, 07:58:17 PM
Oh it's just the wardrobe malfunction showing the anatomy too well. Without clothes, doesn't it just mean the natural configuration? Don't mean to be clueless but maybe I am.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 14, 2017, 08:17:09 PM
Yep a wardrobe malfunction, although some entrepreneur figured out a way to enhance the malfunction.  The thought of that makes me tuckered out. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 14, 2017, 11:37:20 PM
 OMG Ms Minerva,

  Really? You brought up this subject?  For the record I prefer two humps with my camel toe. I'll say no more on the subject. I got a kick out of reading this one.

( Hey Minear, There was a time when I didn't know what it was either, I'm older now)

Hugs, 
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on August 14, 2017, 11:54:08 PM
Gee Ladies, please.  You all need to watch a wider variety of porn.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 15, 2017, 12:05:27 AM
Well it was some odd clothing sold on Amazon, I was out of date.  Or maybe I scared my date away.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 15, 2017, 01:12:46 AM
Quote from: JulieOnHerWay on August 14, 2017, 11:54:08 PM
Gee Ladies, please.  You all need to watch a wider variety of porn.

  But there is no porn allowed on Susan's and I like it that way. Inuendo is good enough for me as long as it isn't too graphic. This is a family site after all.

  Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on August 15, 2017, 07:57:21 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 14, 2017, 07:58:17 PM
Oh it's just the wardrobe malfunction showing the anatomy too well.
Moni, that was the most delightfully tactful explanation!   :D

I love the transmission double-entendre, too.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 15, 2017, 09:13:55 AM
Thanks Kathy. I guess I was thinking this was more complicated than just crotch cleavage. :o You know, maybe a certain shape different than the typical. Being a new candidate in this arena, I didn't want to stand out to the mean kids. You know who they are.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 15, 2017, 10:04:30 AM
 :o  WOW  :o

I thought the conversation about wieners was ..... I don't know.

Congratulations. This one wins.

:laugh:

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 15, 2017, 11:47:35 AM
Girls who go to McGinn always win.  And to others chagrin they can't hide their big grin as they radiate pure joy from within.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 15, 2017, 11:59:38 AM
Cool!....>-bleeped-< poetry!  LOL ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 15, 2017, 01:30:29 PM
Quote from: Kendra on August 15, 2017, 11:47:35 AM
Girls who go to McGinn always win.  And to others chagrin they can't hide their big grin as they radiate pure joy from within.

   Well, at least it wasn't a limerick. And Jacqui, if your mind is on weiners, we have moved on Valley Girl ::).

   You are correct, Kendra, old buddy, old savings and loan pal of mine! (Movie reference =?) I communicated a concern of mine to Brianna in Dr. McGinn's office today. She wants an updated picture each week to check progress. I have a question about one area, about the way it looks, especially when I stand. She was so incredibly nice, informative, and patient in giving me an answer. I will go back in January for my six month. She says things change so much in that six months as things settle in. I have seen that already, so what she said makes sense. At the next appointment, if a revision is needed, it might even be done that day. I am not sure if it will be needed, but I believe what she is telling me. It is such a difference from a surgeon I have had who ran from any revision, ignored my attempts to contact them, etc. For anyone having their first surgery, it is amazing the difference that having a responsive doctor's office can make. At doctor McGinn's office, everyone has been helpful and oh so nice. If a doctor wants a good result, they will have a responsive office in my opinion. With Brianna, I told her how well my dilations have gone. I have gained a dot and a half since I started dilating. I have been as conscientious as I can be with my dilation schedule. If they see you trying hard for a good result, I think they push even harder for their part to help you get there. Sorry for the verbal onslaught but this really made an impression on me today.
Moni
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on August 15, 2017, 02:22:23 PM
Quote from: Laurie on August 14, 2017, 11:37:20 PM
OMG Ms Minerva,

  Really? You brought up this subject?  For the record I prefer two humps with my camel toe. I'll say no more on the subject. I got a kick out of reading this

Two words...

Kinesics Tape

With Danskins or nice light ponté pant I can totally match this fashion faux pas.  (And in 10 weeks I won't need the tape. [emoji78])

No, you may NOT have pictures. Shame on you.

- Michelle's Evil Twin


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 15, 2017, 02:27:44 PM
Quote from: Michelle_P on August 15, 2017, 02:22:23 PM
> I can totally match this fashion faux pas
All those times I mispronounced "fashion fox paw".  Yay!  I no longer need to correct that.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 15, 2017, 07:52:29 PM
Is it just me or do trans folk have a fixation with animals? Rabbits, camels, bears, (oh my) dogs, snakes, pussy cats, butterflies, unicorns, and now foxes?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 15, 2017, 08:22:39 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 15, 2017, 07:52:29 PM
Is it just me or do trans folk have a fixation with animals? Rabbits, camels, bears, (oh my) dogs, snakes, pussy cats, butterflies, unicorns, and now foxes?

   Oh my Monirail,

  I hesitate to respond in fear that you will get butterflies and rabbit away like a dog chasing a pussy cat into a foxhole.. I couldn't bear that happening. I'd rather be on a camel between humps while snakes slither at it's toes watching a unicorn jump over the moon.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 15, 2017, 08:28:51 PM
Too many animals, so I herd. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 15, 2017, 09:14:44 PM
Hells yeah, cats (pussies if you prefer), buns not puns
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 15, 2017, 10:04:35 PM
Oh my gosh, I forgot the sheep. How could I forget the sheep. Shear stupidity, well, after the sheep.

This does relate to GCS, dog gone it.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on August 16, 2017, 03:18:54 PM
Looks like a right monagery. What about  the fish?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on August 16, 2017, 05:46:54 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 15, 2017, 10:04:35 PM
Oh my gosh, I forgot the sheep. How could I forget the sheep. Shear stupidity, well, after the sheep.

This does relate to GCS, dog gone it.

Moni

I guess your thinking might get a little woolly after a General Anaesthetic...
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 16, 2017, 10:01:39 PM
Wow, rough day. I can't believe I am doing this but I am having surgery to repair my eye tomorrow. At least no bowel prep and no general just local. I have been very self conscious of this issue since the FFS surgeon created the problem. Hope this works.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 16, 2017, 10:21:38 PM
Wow, will be thinking of you, hugs and best wishes, also yay for local anesthesia!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 16, 2017, 11:14:26 PM
 I'll be thinking of you Moni and hoping everthing goes well.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 17, 2017, 09:43:35 AM
Best wishes - truly - we are all with you. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on August 17, 2017, 12:26:44 PM
Good luck with the eye repair work Moni . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 17, 2017, 02:07:53 PM
So  I had my  surgery this morning. They were so nice. The nurse held my hand which was sweet. Dr Papel talked me through everything. They removed a big lump of fibrous fat which I want to get a picture of and send to the one who caused the mess. I was so comfortable getting in the gown knowing there is nothing to hide now. The surgery was pretty pain free. I did hear  a couple slips with the pronouns which were quickly corrected quietly. They know I am trans. When she was telling us the discharge instructions I kind of let some emotion flow. It has been an emotional couple days. I now have a nice shiner but it looks promising for a good result. There are a lot of stitches which looks like eye liner. I was told to rest to which I said how much of an expert  I am at this after the last few months. So one more surgery this year, my nose in November. That is his specialty.
I got home and dilated. I kind of thought as I looked that it keeps looking better. That made me happy. Orange  was tough at first, but now is pretty routine. The slow introduction of it has  paid off. I feel very  lucky.
Love you all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 17, 2017, 02:16:30 PM
Hi mundane,

  I am so glad you came through this surgery with such positive hopes. I know how worried you were about it. And now it's done. Nothing left but the recovery and as you say, you have lots of practice at that now. Possibly too much. When can we expect to see you get up off that small butt of yours and do something other than dilate? Oh wait you're still on your butt for that too aren't you?
  Okay, I'll give you today and tomorrow, then you must get up and give Ann a break. Do something really nice for her will ya? You can't deny that she has earned it. Give her a hug from me will ya?

  Love and Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on August 17, 2017, 02:35:57 PM
Hi Moni girl,

I am glad that you have been able to get your eye taken care of, it has been such a bother to you for so long. How is the return of energy coming along with the healing after gcs? Are you going to be able to handle getting back to work after such an eventful summer? You need to post a picture of your shiner, we all want to see what Moni looks like after a bar fight.

Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 17, 2017, 02:43:43 PM
Great to hear the excellent news.  All eyes are on you now, in a good way. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on August 17, 2017, 02:58:17 PM
So glad to hear that things have gone well so far with your eye surgery--wishing you a speedy & painless recovery!  :-*
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 17, 2017, 07:39:56 PM
Woot woot! So glad for you :-). I'm at the local bar after a really long day, will hoist one thinking of you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 18, 2017, 10:37:42 AM
Quote from: Anne Blake on August 17, 2017, 02:35:57 PM
Hi Moni girl,

I am glad that you have been able to get your eye taken care of, it has been such a bother to you for so long. How is the return of energy coming along with the healing after gcs? Are you going to be able to handle getting back to work after such an eventful summer? You need to post a picture of your shiner, we all want to see what Moni looks like after a bar fight.

Anne

Hi Anne,
   It isn't showing the eye that's the problem, it's the rest of the face that is too scary, and also there might be children on here. lol
   Yeah, energy level will be a problem going back to work. I have picked up some weight already, 6 lbs or so. All I can do is work at it til it gets better. The eye surgery has put me back a little, although I was pleased it wasn't swollen shut this morning.  I went out to check on the guys digging up my leaking well. I was in a skirt and ice bag for the eye (quite the fashion statement this year, all the rage) and my neighbor was out there. In front of everyone, he says to my partner, "What'd ya do, hit HIM!"   Years ago this would have knocked me down a lot. I guess my skin is getting a little thicker. Later Ann says she wanted to ask "Moni" about something since I was inside. Again, this idiot, my neighbor is like, "What, who, oh I'm just not used  to that!" This is right in front of the guys working. Stuff like that makes me wish I could start over with some new people around me. Three misgenderings in two days is enough.
   Thanks 'P,' Sadie, Laurie, Anne and Kendra for the well wishes.  It made me feel better.

   So, thread related question. Rachel mentioned that her sensitivity after having her clit hooded increased significantly. Was wondering why this might be if anyone has experience with this. Also, as scared as I was using the orange dilator, it is all expanded now and it is no big deal (as long as purple and green precede it.)

Moni, Monica, Mundane, Moanie, anything but 'Him' (Am I allowed to call my neighbor a p*tz?)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 18, 2017, 10:55:56 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 18, 2017, 10:37:42 AM

Moni, Monica, Mundane, Moanie, anything but 'Him' (Am I allowed to call my neighbor a p*tz?)

  Of course you are M M M Mawnie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on August 18, 2017, 03:06:12 PM
Cumugerous old b*st**d, call him by a feminine name
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 18, 2017, 03:53:51 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 18, 2017, 10:37:42 AM


Moni, Monica, Mundane, Moanie, anything but 'Him' (Am I allowed to call my neighbor a p*tz?)

I'll just say what my Mom would have told me. "It's okay, sweetie. She's just jealous."

Yeah, I'm no looking forward to my neighborhood when I start full time.

You seem to be doing great. All things considered. I hope the eye surgery takes care of this nagging issue, as well.

Take care.

With warmth(too much today)

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 18, 2017, 11:12:32 PM
Hi Monica,

I am very happy the eye surgery worked out. I know it caused you a lot of distress.

So I had my whole glands penis used for my cliterous . It was a bit larger than normally would have been used. It has shrunk a bit since then. Anyhow, the labiaplasty was covering the cliterous. I had extra skin and too much fat where my vaginal canal and lower vagina is. Dr. Mcginn said it was not typical and not optimum as fat is not a good blood flow carrier. The cliteral area I had very tight skin. So my cliterous has tight skin over it so when I go up steps, walk after being seated and see an arousing guy my cliterous gets super sensitive in a sexual way.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 19, 2017, 10:27:44 AM
So Rachael, I am still confused a little. Is it more sensitive with the clit open or covered with skin(hooded)?

Jacqui, when I came out, I went and talked to my closest neighbors. On the surface, it went well. Of course, one never knows if you are getting the smiley face and really they are wishing you into the cornfield like in the Twilight Zone. It gets a bit silly after a while, so I just decided other neighbors would see the different me and ask if they had the courage. It has turned out fine for the most part. This neighbor I spoke of is a bit of a shovenist, bordering on misogynist. So, I care nothing about his opinion.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 19, 2017, 10:30:35 AM
Quote from: davina61 on August 18, 2017, 03:06:12 PM
Cumugerous old b*st**d, call him by a feminine name
Davina, I am confused, why would I compliment him with a feminine name?
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 19, 2017, 11:33:05 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 19, 2017, 10:30:35 AM
Davina, I am confused, why would I compliment him with a feminine name?
Moni

Or give him the time of day for that matter.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on August 19, 2017, 04:27:29 PM
It was just if he is calling you him call him her, tit for tat.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 19, 2017, 10:08:45 PM
The cliterous is much more sensitive now. It is counter intuitive, i know.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 19, 2017, 11:48:28 PM
Quote from: Rachel on August 19, 2017, 10:08:45 PM
The cliterous is much more sensitive now. It is counter intuitive, i know.

By now you must see after all my postings that I am not too bright. You are saying that it is more sensitive covered or hooded than open and exposed. If this is right, and I am not sure, it would make sense that the movement against the soft hooding could cause pleasure as you walk. Maybe you could tell Davina and she could translate and tell me in British so my silly butt finally gets this. Sorry, but I feel like I am on the verge of discovering the holy grail of clitoris' here. lol
Moni
Love you Rachel 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 20, 2017, 04:32:10 AM
I think the skin in contact with the cliterous at times causes sensation that is perceived as pleasure. It is not all the time but every time it happened it is pleasurable. Initially when I had my cliterous covered it felt like pressure then it became pleasurable, perhaps when I was allowed to touch and rub the outer skin (healing driven permission).

Maybe it is a learned response or a recycled nerve sensation response.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 20, 2017, 06:49:17 AM
Rachel, I seem to remember you'd had your first orgasms before you went for labiaplasty? Interesting if it feels different. My clitoris is pretty well buried and I've been enjoying a variety of stimulation, at first only indirectly through the hood, now once I'm worked up I can hold a Hitachi vibe right too it -- not pressing hard mind you -- once I'm worked up
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 20, 2017, 09:28:36 AM
So, am I hearing the hooding is a good thing for pleasure, is that our consensus?  Mine is exposed at this point, but it was mentioned that it might contract some. I am not sure how it could even be done to hood it at this point.
Sadie, I am doing orange now to the same depth as green. It is even okay first thing in the morning. Persistence and patience made it happen. I am still having a lot of numb and sore areas. Not thinking of any playing yet.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 20, 2017, 07:02:25 PM
Dr. McGinn did it at 6 months. There was no cost. The skin to the left and right of the cliterous is opened and stitched over the cliterous. It takes 15 minutes as part of the 6 month check-up. I was numbed ( except one spot, ouch) and the work was done.

Periodically as a point you need to do cliterous maintanance with a Qtip. She will explaine what needs to be done. Mine has always been spotless and moist.

The second to last pic I sent you is the before labiaplasty and the last pic is post labiaplasty by 2 months or so. I was afraid to use after the 6 weeks healing period but now I know it is robust and makes the cliterous very usable and sansative. I still need to have my last proceedure November 20th to close my bottom. So the top 3/4 of my vagina is done. The labiaplasty really made the top 3/4 of my vagina looks nice. Considering what she had to work with I am extreamly happy.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 20, 2017, 10:59:18 PM
Rachel,
   I will go back and look at the pictures. Thank you. I have an area that I am watching that makes things look kinda odd when I stand up. I mentioned it to Brianna and she says she sees it. I will wait til 6 month to see how things change.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 21, 2017, 06:39:02 PM
Hitachi vibe, I think I will ask Santa for one :) >   Wow, I think after it is warmed up and less sensitive that may be AWESOME.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 22, 2017, 07:50:06 AM
So, I went over and talked to my neighbor. I said it was really embarrassing for me to walk out in a dress and  have him out me in front of strangers. He apologized and said it was just so ingrained. I said I wasn't mad but urged him to be aware of how it affects  me. I am pretty sure I saw him looking down at my body a couple times as we spoke which kind of creeped me out.

I was looking  at dilators today and thinking about the angle on all of them. I guess this is for getting under the pubic bone but it seems like it would take more space or internal flexibility to accommodate that bend once inside. It would  seem to make more sense to mimic the shape of the penis (or vibrator in some cases.) I am also hearing folks talk about the dilators getting stuck inside. I guess the suction might cause this to happen. Haven't had this myself.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on August 22, 2017, 08:30:00 AM
That was a strong move going one on one with your neighbor, I have to commend you for taking the high road.

Love you girl,
Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on August 22, 2017, 12:12:56 PM
Good for you for talking to your neighbor! It sounds like you were very gracious & measured in your response. I hope that he is able to empathize & to do better!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: AnneK on August 22, 2017, 12:24:50 PM
QuoteI am doing orange now to the same depth as green

Orange is the new black.   ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 22, 2017, 12:47:37 PM
 Hey Mawnika,

  That was a bold but positive move you made confronting your neighbor regarding his indiscretions and short comings. (no pun intended... well maybe just a little). I hope it does some good.

Hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 22, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
Quote from: Laurie on August 22, 2017, 12:47:37 PM
Hey Mawnika,

  That was a bold but positive move you made confronting your neighbor regarding his indiscretions and short comings. (no pun intended... well maybe just a little). I hope it does some good.

Hugs,
  Laurie

Dear Ms. Super Moderator Laurie, Please lock this thread as it's gotten completely out of hand and gone totally off the rails! Everyone has suffered more than enough trauma here!  Thank you for your time. I look forward to seeing that little lock thingy on the thread Title.
     Warm regards from the feigning and always demure, Ms. Jessica
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 22, 2017, 02:09:32 PM
Quote from: AnneK on August 22, 2017, 12:24:50 PM
Orange is the new black.   ;)
Oh gosh please don't tell me there is a black one, a pink one, or a red one,... orange is big enough!

Quote from: Jessica Lynne on August 22, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
Dear Ms. Super Moderator Laurie, Please lock this thread as it's gotten completely out of hand and gone totally off the rails! Everyone has suffered more than enough trauma here!  Thank you for your time. I look forward to seeing that little lock thingy on the thread Title.
     Warm regards from the feigning and always demure, Ms. Jessica

What did I do Jess? I won't mention my neighbor again, I promise. He is a little gross, I will admit.

I met with the Mom of one the other patients in the recovery house today. She was in town. She told me something I did not realize. She said the prostate is above the vagina. I thought it was closer to the colon/rectum. It must be moved during the surgery. This makes me wonder about a prostate exam. My PCP can no longer do this exam then, it will need to be done with whoever I find for gynecological check.

Now see Jess, we're talking vaginas and rectums again, no need to lock thread.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 22, 2017, 02:17:17 PM
Yep we now have a g spot and I suppose a prostate exam is technically necessary, however with testosterone gone from the system, the likelihood of ever developing prostate issues is really low.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 22, 2017, 02:28:31 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 22, 2017, 02:09:32 PM
Oh gosh please don't tell me there is a black one, a pink one, or a red one,... orange is big enough!

Now see Jess, we're talking vaginas and rectums again, no need to lock thread.
Moni

Okay then, if we can get back to vag's and buttholes, I'm good. Never mind, Laurie.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on August 22, 2017, 05:42:35 PM
A prostate examine can be preformed through the vagina and it's easer to feel that the other way. Been there, done that.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 22, 2017, 06:07:42 PM
Quote from: Jessica Lynne on August 22, 2017, 02:28:31 PM
Okay then, if we can get back to vag's and buttholes, I'm good. Never mind, Laurie.

  Don't worry Jess, I'm not touching it now. ewwww
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 22, 2017, 06:14:48 PM
The prostate is located on the upper side of the vaginal canal about 3 inches in just behind the entrance hump. I is definitely a G spot. That and the back of the vagina and the citreous.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 23, 2017, 12:54:46 PM
Well it had to happen, back to work tomorrow! Have all new situation to get used to, so I will maybe not be on here as much for a while. If anything surgery related happens, I'll post it. Might be real tired tomorrow. Glad it is Thursday and not Monday.
I did a little playing and rubbing last night. It seemed that I do produce some lubrication, self made. It is still too sore and numb to tell much. Am looking forward to the vibrator. (Somewhere I think Sadie's head just popped up. lol) I do feel that dorsal nerve (?) a lot as I move around throughout the day. Ta ta!
Moni  (Sex Goddess of the Maryland Suburbs)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on August 23, 2017, 02:58:08 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 23, 2017, 12:54:46 PM
Well it had to happen, back to work tomorrow! Have all new situation to get used to, so I will maybe not be on here as much for a while. If anything surgery related happens, I'll post it. Might be real tired tomorrow. Glad it is Thursday and not Monday.
I did a little playing and rubbing last night. It seemed that I do produce some lubrication, self made. It is still too sore and numb to tell much. Am looking forward to the vibrator. (Somewhere I think Sadie's head just popped up. lol) I do feel that dorsal nerve (?) a lot as I move around throughout the day. Ta ta!
Moni  (Sex Goddess of the Maryland Suburbs)


Does the title come with the surgery?  Nice. I want one.

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 24, 2017, 12:24:48 PM
Moni don't forget to file a trademark registration for your new title.

Someday I hope to be Sleepless in Seattle.  ;)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 27, 2017, 03:29:24 PM
From the calmness of this summer to the craziness of Fall. I am back to work which is always hectic. Then yesterday my Mom passed away. It is no surprise given her age and health, but it is emotional. We will soon head to Georgia to help out, especially with my brother, Paul (and Suki, for those who have met them.) I have been in this safety zone in my trans life this past summer, it is time to face unfriendly territory for the next week. I hope anyone reading this is doing well. Love to all!
Moni  XO
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on August 27, 2017, 04:03:53 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 27, 2017, 03:29:24 PM
From the calmness of this summer to the craziness of Fall. I am back to work which is always hectic. Then yesterday my Mom passed away. It is no surprise given her age and health, but it is emotional. We will soon head to Georgia to help out, especially with my brother, Paul (and Suki, for those who have met them.) I have been in this safety zone in my trans life this past summer, it is time to face unfriendly territory for the next week. I hope anyone reading this is doing well. Love to all!
Moni  XO

Moni,

So sorry to hear about Mom, and having to deal with that in unfriendly surroundings. We haven't talked a lot, but because of your generous sharing of your journey I feel like I know you pretty well. I, as many others, admire you and have drawn hope and strength from your accomplishments.

When things get rough, think about your adoptive family here, and know that we love you and are on your side. Hopefully you can take back some of the strength you've given us.

Big hugs,

Stephanie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on August 27, 2017, 04:31:52 PM
Monica, I am sorry for your loss. Please express my condolences to your brother too. Give him a hug for me.

Virginia and in-laws, I am sending healing thoughts your way. I hope it works out for the better.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 27, 2017, 04:32:38 PM
Thank you Steph, I have gotten the sense from your posts that you are a very kind person. I have spoken with many wonderful people on Susan's, I will miss being on here. It is weird dealing with my Mom's death. She never knew Moni, she was the only one I never told. I sent her a card and signed it Monica. When she saw it, she pointed to my name, like who is that? Suki said we had gotten a dog. It didn't make sense to explain it to her in her mental state. Now I just have to deal with the part of the family that is luke warm at best. Their loss if they can't cope cause I am not gonna deal with any disrespect. Don't mess with the butterfly, right?
Moni
Thanks Rachel, just saw your post.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on August 27, 2017, 04:37:36 PM
You have my condolences , Hugs from here XXXX
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on August 27, 2017, 04:42:43 PM
Monica, very sorry to hear about your mother - my condolences.  Best wishes for your trip next week. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on August 27, 2017, 05:06:33 PM
Moni, I am so sorry to hear about your mother.  And sorry to hear that you have to go into unfriendly territory to deal with it.  Be well on your trip!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on August 27, 2017, 05:32:23 PM
So sorry to hear about your Mom. . . mine died very slowly several years ago.  Her death was welcome at that point. . .  She was clueless about me and would have never been told.  In contrast, her youngest sister my Godmother, knows and always wanted me to tell her. It surprised me how my GM really didn't know my mother.  It would have wounded her deeply. She would not have understood and there was no value in telling her for me, her or anyone.

Prostate: After 15 years of HRT my 85 year-old Urologist, after examining me, said that mine was the smoothest, smallest, prostate he'd ever encountered. My father died of Prostate cancer and 2 of 4 brothers are being treated aggressively for it.  I was heading in that direction too prior to HRT but after 15 years of HRT . . .  nothing. . .:-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on August 27, 2017, 05:53:08 PM
Moni, I was sorry to read of your loss.  You have my condolences, and best wishes in this difficult time.  Please don;t hesitate to reach out for any aid from those who share in your unfortunate experience.

Be well and stay safe!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: marctravis on August 27, 2017, 06:04:26 PM
Moni so sorry for your loss. Condolences from me and my spouse.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on August 27, 2017, 07:56:07 PM
Oh Moni

I was so sad for you to read your Mum had passed away. Expected or not it is never an easy time. I hope you and you family are at peace soon.

Hugs

Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 27, 2017, 08:37:38 PM
Thank you everyone, you make me see that I have a wonderful family right here. Your kindness has touched me. I will carry thoughts of you with me to cope in any potentially hostile areas.
Monica
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rayna on August 27, 2017, 08:57:15 PM
Moni,

I am sorry for your loss. A time like this brings life's travails into a different perspective. Know that you are making good decisions and be strong.
Love Randy

Sent from my Victor 9000 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on August 28, 2017, 05:14:05 AM
Moni, so sorry to hear, what a tough way to start your work year :-(.

Hugs, I know you're going to be fine but this doesn't make right now any easier.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on August 28, 2017, 02:08:30 PM
So sorry to hear about your Mom, Moni. As for the hostile territory, the general public in a more conservative area may be less aware of trans people & hence less likely to clock you. Wishing you strength, peace, and safety.  :-*
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 28, 2017, 03:46:05 PM

My Dear Monica,

   My heart goes out to you, Paul and Suki for the loss of your mother. I regret not sending you my condolences yesterday due to dealing with my own petty problems. The loss of ones mother is never an easy thing for those that are left behind. It matters not if it was expected or not it hurts. If there is a life after this one, you can rest easy knowing that now your mother knows and not doubt approves of her new daughter. Again Monica, I am deeply sorry for your loss.
   Please see to it that Paul and Suki are given hugs on my behalf and tell them I send them my condolences. While you at at it tell Paul to hugs you firmly for me.

Love ya, Monica
    Lauire
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on August 28, 2017, 07:49:46 PM
Thank you everyone. Laurie, we are headed down earlier so we can support Paul n Suki. I will pass on your good wishes and hugs. One thing I didn't think about was that we need pall bearers and I no longer see that as a role to play. The whole burial thing gives me the creeps. The church service is not me either. I think the  best thing to do is focus on loved ones. Not knowing if I am really accepted by some leaves me wondering how that will look. It is 'get through it' time. Hope to be back Sunday.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on August 28, 2017, 08:11:02 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on August 28, 2017, 07:49:46 PM
Thank you everyone. Laurie, we are headed down earlier so we can support Paul n Suki. I will pass on your good wishes and hugs. One thing I didn't think about was that we need pall bearers and I no longer see that as a role to play. The whole burial thing gives me the creeps. The church service is not me either. I think the  best thing to do is focus on loved ones. Not knowing if I am really accepted by some leaves me wondering how that will look. It is 'get through it' time. Hope to be back Sunday.
Moni

Monica,

  It maybe difficult for you for the loss of your Mom and that will be hard enough for you there. Having to deal with a funeral and acceptance on top of it is enough to make one cry even more.
  I understand how you feel about funerals. Know that i will be with you in your heart, there to hold your hand and give you a virtual hug when needed. Paul, Suki and of course Ann will be with you too. You're never alone girl. We can cry together.

Hugs & Love,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on August 29, 2017, 01:05:03 AM
Moni, we have not had the opportunity to bond to date, but I convey my heart felt condolences for your lose.  I have followed your process to transform and appreciate it greatly. 
I lost my mother back in January.  It was a tough and life changing experience.  I know you were not there at her passing but I think it affects us all very deeply because it is our mothers.  I was my mother primary care giver her last 5 or 10 years.  Increasing responsibilities as time went along.  Even as I saw her decline, the end was shocking and heart breaking.  You can't plan for it.  I was very fortunate.  My 4 brothers and sister helped the last year.  It gave us time to bond again as we helped, in one way or another, our mother get through her last year. 
So when the end came there was not issues of sibling rivalry.  I hope you don't have those issues.  If you do, don't play into it, if at all possible.  You are there to mourn her passing.  Taking more than a moment to remember the great things she gave you.  And share time remembering her with family and friends.  She was loved by more than you know.
As to the funeral, it is very personal if not somewhat rote.  There are more than anyone wants in the service.  Very much based on the planners vision.  Unfortunately, my mother never planned or talked about it so that burden was left to us, with a huge variety of of religious views. Everything from fundamentalist Christian to atheist.  But as we planned, I kept in mind it was for Mom.  It was to be her service for her religious conviction not ours.  And the rest of us had to at least give her that.  Not our view of the afterlife.  I suspect your other family members are making the tough decisions but I hope you at least get to be involved and have opportunity to express an opinion.  As you go into the service I hope others give you space to grieve as you need to.  I cried.  It will be methodical, planned and sanitized for others but it is real for you so do as you need.  Everyone will understand.
There are no rule in services.  My mother did not have pallbearers.  Heck we did not have a burial afterwards.  It was a celebration of life.  Meeting and talking to all sort of people that thought enough of my mother to see her off at the end. 
For several reasons we had to work through the final resting place process.  Start with 5 chiefs.  Add no direction from Mom.  Add a father that died 40 years earlier and was literally shoved into a small burial vault.  Add we did not want the routine but something that we could do for them both that would be respectful of what they both gave us and express a small individuality to there final resting place.  What 5 kid-adults came up with was a granite bench with room under it to hold not just their co-mingled remains but room for me and my sister easily and as i told my sibs anyone else that will fit.  It is a nice classic style but has a loon on its front.  Loons are not native to the area.  The gravestone designer had trouble with that but got it right finally.  And the best thing of all, I can be assured both my mother and father would have protested such extravagance.  But they did not help with this, so live with it (so to speak).
Funerals can be tough but please don't get creep-ed out.  I understand but it should not.  Find much value in your family and her friends and the communal grieving.  This process can be good for you in the long run. I hope it is.  Very hard but afterwards you will be a better woman for it and get a bit more clarity on many things in life.  Past and future and afterlife too.  Please go in gently.  Know that others are grieving too and stumbling along like you are.
i will stop now. Lots more I could say but this is way too long already. 
And if you can't stand the small minded idiots in Atlanta come on down lower to the redneck riviera and we will talk it over.  It's only 5 hours drive further.
Love and peace be with you.
Julie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on August 29, 2017, 07:46:41 AM
Stay strong and be well. Just a note to share that I am with you in spirit. Your strength in the face of adversity is amzing. You will move through this. Peace ny friend. Jess
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on August 30, 2017, 04:41:10 AM
Sending you positive thoughts Moni, take care hun.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on September 01, 2017, 08:50:47 AM
Hugs, wishes, thoughts(prayers if you want), and tissues for you and your family.

There is little left to say but we will be here when you get back.

Be careful if it becomes hostile. You don't need any more physical or mental pain at the moment.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on September 01, 2017, 12:09:41 PM
Moni needs to quit her job so she can babysit and herd the lot of us. It isn't quite the same without her around here. :(
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 02, 2017, 11:35:57 PM

   Hey folks,

  I thought I would pass on a bit of news. I got a text from Monica a bit earlier. She survived the visit with her relatives for her Mom's funeral and will be heading for home on the morrow.
   I did not ask her if I could share this news with you all, but hey, I'm far far away from her so I decided to chance it. I fear her not.

laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on September 03, 2017, 05:02:42 PM
Thanks for the update Laurie. I doubt sh'ell have any problem with it . . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 04, 2017, 04:07:35 PM
Hi my lovelies,
  It made me feel so good to read your well wishes. Julie thank you for sharing your story. I was not my Mom's care giver. My brother Paul and his wife, Suki were. I worry about them adjusting to no longer having that role. That has to be very hard, so many memories, habits that you do daily and suddenly you are no longer doing them. I did okay at the service, but at the grave site I got upset. I realize that suddenly both my brother and partner had their arms around my back in support. I have an amazing family. I have a hard time with loved ones being put in the ground. It stirs a sense of claustrophobia.
   My partner and I both expressed being sad today. We are very tired, the excitement of  being with family is over, and the real job (with students) starts tomorrow. The weather will soon be changing but today is beautiful. I decided I would try to perk myself up and wear my bikini for the first time with the bottoms fitting properly. Even though I have gained 10 pounds, I was pretty happy with the look. (For an old broad) It was a good  distraction, and maybe a segway to move away from the whole death thing. Still can't go in the water but that is okay.
   Thanks Laurie for checking on me, I think I texted you while dilating in a Burger King parking lot. I put up curtains in the mini van so I wasn't arrested. I passed on  your message to Ann, Paul, and Suki. I had one family member act goofy with me, but I might write that later. I am so pooped.
Love to all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 04, 2017, 04:20:33 PM
Glad to have you back Moni

laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on September 04, 2017, 09:51:44 PM
So glad to hear from you! Yay bikini! Boo tired!

Hugs, I'm glad you're well hon :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 04, 2017, 10:03:35 PM
Moni!  Welcome back, and best wishes for tomorrow.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on September 04, 2017, 10:07:20 PM
Welcome back, Moni. We all missed you!

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 04, 2017, 10:09:18 PM
Quote from: Steph2.0 on September 04, 2017, 10:07:20 PM
Welcome back, Moni. We all missed you!

Steph

   I didn't  :P
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on September 04, 2017, 10:28:41 PM
Quote from: Laurie on September 04, 2017, 10:09:18 PM
   I didn't  :P

Whoa! My standard reply is, "I missed you, but I have another clip." [emoji16]
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on September 04, 2017, 11:50:26 PM
Welcome back, you.  Laurie has me so confused I don't know what to call you.  Maybe just call you to supper.
A mother passing is tough.  Send my understanding to your bro and sis-in-law.  i have been there and the coming down from the intensity and emotions involved takes some time.  I still have my moments 8 months later.  And its ok for you to have your moments too, whatschaname.
Find your new normal and allow the feeling their time.
One day, one step at a time if needed.
But the bikini every day.
Hugs and kisses
Julie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on September 05, 2017, 10:26:04 AM
Welcome back and good luck with first day of classes. That can be exhausting. Try to take it easy.

Warmly,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 05, 2017, 05:28:00 PM
Quote from: Steph2.0 on September 04, 2017, 10:07:20 PM
Welcome back, Moni. We all missed you!

Steph
Quote from: Laurie on September 04, 2017, 10:09:18 PM
   I didn't  :P

Quote from: Steph2.0 on September 04, 2017, 10:28:41 PM
Whoa! My standard reply is, "I missed you, but I have another clip." [emoji16]

Wow lots of love with a pinch of hostility, yes, it's nice to be home. lol

Just so you know, I didn't wear my bikini to school today.

I had a number of reactions to me as Moni on my trip. I was worried about being trans in the south. I guess I am passing fairly well (I never know how well.) I was sitting in a Waffle House watching to make sure none of the numerous roof leaks were leaking on my food (It was close.) The place was full of a number of red necked  looking gentlemen and no one gave a thought to me. Same with the other restaurants and gas stations. Big sigh of relief. Family wise, I had a nephew who would not talk to me. I was told, "He wasn't there yet." Well, okay! So, we kept our uncomfortable distance from each other. My brother in law was a pleasant surprise. I got a big hug and he called me, "Sweetie." Later on he referred to me as his sister. He had previously posted some hurtful bathroom related stuff on Facebook. Guess, in his mind, family was more important than the Fox News type attitude in this case. It was weird at the funeral because his family knew me from twenty years ago but didn't recognize me. I just said that I was Monica and left off any explanation. When they figured it out, they were respectful, warm even. Since there were plenty of pictures of me (in male mode) and my brothers and sisters, I just went with the flow, the old, "Joke them if they can't take a ****."
The nephew thing is no where near what others deal with. Even so, it struck me as pathetic that my personal mental turmoil and my solution to it were enough to have someone try to dehumanize me, deeming me unworthy to talk to. To anyone dealing with hostile people in your family, the problem is their foolishness, not yours. Stay strong in who you are.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on September 05, 2017, 07:29:11 PM
Thanks for filling us in Moni! Big hugs :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: p on September 06, 2017, 12:26:45 PM
Glad to hear that the trip went pretty well, although as you note, your nephew's behavior is disturbing. On a recent trip to my hometown in a very rural area, I was surprised that folks really are quite loving and ready to accept trans people, even if they were just spouting off about "men in the women's room" last month. I think that personally knowing someone takes a "political" (more like unfairly politicized, really) issue about strangers off in the city and makes it into a more serious question of "am I really going to cut someone out of my life over their decision to pursue their own happiness?" Thanks so much for sharing your story. Hope you have a great school year!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 06, 2017, 05:31:42 PM
Moni I am glad you were able to handle a very difficult time, and now you are back.

Quote from: HappyMoni on September 05, 2017, 05:28:00 PM
Guess, in his mind, family was more important than the Fox News type attitude in this case
I experienced this when I came out to my parents.  Based on our completely opposite political beliefs I had every reason to expect a train wreck when I told my parents their only child is a daughter, not a son.  Since coming out I have received nothing but love, understanding and support.  This sometimes still makes my head spin but I'll gladly accept it.

Quote from: HappyMoni on September 05, 2017, 05:28:00 PM
Just so you know, I didn't wear my bikini to school today.
Awwwww.  Oh well.  There's always New Years. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on September 09, 2017, 03:16:57 PM
Hi Monica, I am glad you had support (with the exception of one) with that difficult time. I was thinking of you and wondering how everything went. Also, I was wondering how everything worked out at school. I know that had been on your mind too.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 09, 2017, 04:41:18 PM
Thank you ladies,
   I am thinking about a lot of things right now, trying to wade through a lot of change. I have seen a number of people close to me die in the last few weeks. I was at a funeral 'celebration' last night. I am back to work, but my situation is totally changed. The students I had worked with for so long, kids who I was happy to think I had helped  make real progress, are now with someone else. I step into a new situation with people who have worked together quite a while and I am feeling my way through so as not to step on toes. I am also trying to come to terms with living without my constant companion, my genital dysphoria. I am quite happy to have my surgery done and I am not complaining, but when one is on the pre-surgery side of things, there is such a drive, maybe even an obsession to get things together to get it done. After surgery, for me, it has been so relieving to not have that drive but it is a change not to have that goal. I had my eye surgery and although the big lump of fat is now removed, it is still not looking right. The doctor says it will take time. So, there are a lot of changes. I had wondered about how all this related to me being on this site as well. I think of people desperately wanting the surgery I had. If I continue to update stuff past this point, is there a danger of making anyone feel bad. My intention is not to say, oh look at my result, ain't it wonderful. I guess my original desire was to tell the story of GCS in a way more that just the X's and O's of the facts. I want to say stuff like at the funeral last night, I had my whole neighborhood around me. I was in  a dress. I no longer had thoughts of me hiding anything. I was Monica, deserved to be a girl in my thick head, and now can not imagine myself any other way. That is an incredible difference that having this surgery meant to me. I have mentally turned a corner in my acceptance. This is one possibility of how one can feel after surgery.
   I had a long chat with Laurie about me being on this site from here on. I don't want to be just another one who disappeared, but I want to have a positive effect, not bring anyone down. I, as a transgender person, am sick of being the person always looking to the future for my life. I want to learn how to experience every freaking moment, every 'now.'  I am so tired of all the anxiety that has accompanied coming out, being in public, surgery. I need to figure out a way for the bad stuff to be put in its place and make room for enjoying the good. This is my new goal.
   Oh my gosh, I am so rambling here. Rather than being down, I think I am doing a lot of soul searching. Sorry if this is a bore. Guess I needed to say it.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Maybebaby56 on September 09, 2017, 05:30:42 PM
Hi Moni,

You're not a bore, believe me. You are one of the treasures I have found on my journey. If you want indulge in life experiences, maybe you should call your friends more often (hint, hint).

I think you have helped many people on this site with your compassion and nurturing spirit.  You have certainly helped me. I have really been through the wringer mentally since my SRS, and I very much appreciate the support you have given me. I have always looked to you for inspiration.

You and I are so similar sometimes. Just last night I wrote you and said I didn't feel I should be posting on this forum anymore. I did not feel I had anything useful to say.  This is a support site, and I felt there was nothing supportive I could say because I was feeling so lost myself.  That "pre-surgery drive" you talked about had me all amped up. My God, it was all I could think about for weeks. Post-surgery, I was expecting this feeling of wondrous re-birth, or at least relief, and all I got was this depression and disappointment and wondering WTF was wrong with me.

Fortunately, I had a long talk with myself and got things turned around, but I couldn't have done it without the people in my life who care about me and were there for me when I needed them.  That includes you, sweetie. And Jessica Lynne, and Laurie, and Jacqueline, and Rachel, and everyone else who reached out to me. Thank you, thank you, thank you all.

I think I've changed my mind about quitting the forum. I have posted snippets of my SRS experience elsewhere, but probably will not do a comprehensive recounting for several weeks, and only if I can do it in a way that will be helpful to others. I still think I can give something back to the community here that has helped me so much. I hope you will stick around.  The place wouldn't be the same with you.

With kindness,
 
Terri
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on September 09, 2017, 06:41:36 PM
Hi Monica,

GCS or FFS is not just about preparing for the procedure and the procedure it is about your thoughts and feelings both before and after the procedures.  You help others posting about your experience going to where you grew up and how you are received. Work and how you are treated pre vs post op. Now and a year from now.

Monica, keeping your sense of humor, sharing your thoughts and hopes and how you deal with disappointment are all lessons in a trans life others will go through. You offer so much and have sooooo much to offer.

I too posted about a point in my life I called an inflection point. I too think why post. What purpose does my posting have. Then a woman PM's me and I realize my venting and request for help has helped someone else.

I too am finding my way just like you and others. There are others on here that read your posts and need to know the whole story about transition, everything, the highs, the lows, the failed procedures and reality not being what we imagined.

You and others that post here help others and give us a taste of reality. Transition has many facets.

Monica, we need you. We need your life lessons to help other woman that walk in your footsteps.

Rachel
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 09, 2017, 07:39:56 PM
Hi again little Miss tiny butt.

   Yes, as you mentioned you and I have talked some off forum and because of that I'm not going to assail you here. If you do decide to stay with us here I offer as suggestion... As you have stated , you are post-op now. That chapter in your life is coming to a close, just like my road trip came to an end. Both were wonderful chronicles of our journeys. After my return home, I closed that chapter by closing my road trip thread and returning to my regular thread where I record my day to day journey. Perhaps  you too feel a need to close this chapter of your GCS journey and begin another thread for your post op adventures. And yes, Menudie, your new life post op is an adventure. It's an adventure of discovery, discovering who you now are and how you feel as you relearn your new place in life. That feeling of being a woman in a dress finally. Do you, and you too Terri, not think that we here behind you two do not want to share your new struggle and joys? Well, if you two are thinking that, think again. Don't ever think that you two can cut us off and then discard us like you did with the leftover of your Clydes. We denizens of Susan's Place are not the leftover dregs of your life. We are your friends and family.
   Well, I guess I lied. I have assailed you two again with my selfish wish for you both to stay. I'm not going to apologize for it either, so there. I love ya both  :P :P
  But do what you decide to do with good conscious. I'll stand by whatever you decide.

Hugs,
   Laurie

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rayna on September 09, 2017, 10:28:39 PM
Moni, Terri, Rachel and others,

Your successes do not depress me.  I am inspired by what you have been through, and how you changed (and continue to change), and how you move on with your lives.  Your post-op presence and experiences are so valuable to many of us.  I am always happy to see people who are still around after a number of years.  I feel like, even if I never go through GCS (and I'm not likely to), your success, and the failures that you overcome, are part of what pulls many of the rest of us along.  We need those who have been there, not just those who are questioning and striving, needing help.  You may not feel you can help, but often just chiming in with your own experiences is all it takes.  There's real value there.  So I hope you all stick around.

Besides, Moni, its all about self-preservation.  If you went away, who might Laurie turn on next?  >:-) :D ;D

Randy
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on September 10, 2017, 12:53:42 AM
Monica
Stay
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on September 10, 2017, 03:38:58 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 09, 2017, 04:41:18 PM
Thank you ladies,
     I had a long chat with Laurie about me being on this site from here on. I don't want to be just another one who disappeared,

Moni...


See there is your problem, talking with Laurie  :D

I think you need to do what ever is right for you...it is not expected that people will say in a support environment for ever but eventually move on with their lives and seek what I call "normalisation" which is my way of saying that your life has settled into its new rhythm of being who you are meant to be. Some of us strive all our lives to relieve our dysphoria and when we eventually do, we can be at a bit of a loss as to where to go next.

Most of us, I think, just want to be the guy or girl next door that no one notices too much and we get to live out authentic life as who we really are. What ever the outcome I am sure that any insights you have to offer will be greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 10, 2017, 09:47:22 AM
Quote from: RandyL on September 09, 2017, 10:28:39 PM
Moni, Terri, Rachel and others,

Your successes do not depress me.  I am inspired by what you have been through, and how you changed (and continue to change), and how you move on with your lives.  Your post-op presence and experiences are so valuable to many of us.  I am always happy to see people who are still around after a number of years.  I feel like, even if I never go through GCS (and I'm not likely to), your success, and the failures that you overcome, are part of what pulls many of the rest of us along.  We need those who have been there, not just those who are questioning and striving, needing help.  You may not feel you can help, but often just chiming in with your own experiences is all it takes.  There's real value there.  So I hope you all stick around.

Besides, Moni, its all about self-preservation.  If you went away, who might Laurie turn on next?  >:-) :D ;D

Randy

Thank you Randy, I think I needed to hear this. Now that I think of it, I love to hear from those who have lived their real lives longer than I have. I really just feared hurting someone with success I have been lucky enough to have.

Quote from: JulieOnHerWay on September 10, 2017, 12:53:42 AM
Monica
Stay
Julie, OMG, you get so long winded sometimes! lol Thanks!

Quote from: ElizabethK on September 10, 2017, 03:38:58 AM
See there is your problem, talking with Laurie  :D

I think you need to do what ever is right for you...it is not expected that people will say in a support environment for ever but eventually move on with their lives and seek what I call "normalisation" which is my way of saying that your life has settled into its new rhythm of being who you are meant to be. Some of us strive all our lives to relieve our dysphoria and when we eventually do, we can be at a bit of a loss as to where to go next.

Most of us, I think, just want to be the guy or girl next door that no one notices too much and we get to live out authentic life as who we really are. What ever the outcome I am sure that any insights you have to offer will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you Liz. I might have to stay just to spite Lorilie. I was feeling the pressure of her boot on my derriere. I really love the people on here, I love the thought of maybe helping someone who is having trouble. I do have to figure out a balance for my life. This really has seemed to pivot around this surgery and how the changes in my head are happening. I talked to a friend whose surgery has not hit home to her yet. For me, this has been a time of taking stock of where I am. It is a life changer, but it is apparent with the help of the feedback on here, that I am not interested in forgetting this group of people who (whom?) I have so much in common with. At the same time, I have to have the discipline to get up and do the things I need to do and try to enjoy each moment.

Moni
Laurie, I don't want to say you are right, (Trust me from the bottom of my heart I don't want that) I will end the thread at some point. The surgery is more than just what physically happens. If I continue for a bit, I will try to make it concern physical or mental updates related to this life event. Oh gosh, I realize I didn't quote you here. It wasn't a slight. I just figured you were out 'assailing' out on the Portland bay somewhere.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 10, 2017, 10:14:40 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 10, 2017, 09:47:22 AM
"I might have to stay just to spite Lorilie. I was feeling the pressure of her boot on my derriere."...

"I really love the people on here, I love the thought of maybe helping someone who is having trouble."

"Laurie, I don't want to say you are right, (Trust me from the bottom of my heart I don't want that)" I

Just looking at what you've said, Minahie, it is easy to see what is important.
(I do however really like seeing the last one too.)

:icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_geekdance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance: :icon_dance:

Hugs,
   Laurie

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: KathyLauren on September 10, 2017, 01:16:54 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 10, 2017, 09:47:22 AMI really just feared hurting someone with success I have been lucky enough to have.
Moni, don't ever think that.  While we may sometimes envy those farther along the path than ourselves, your success will never hurt anyone.  Reading about people's success stories inspires us and gives us hope for our own futures.  And advice is always more plausible when it comes from someone with experience.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on September 10, 2017, 01:29:53 PM
Moni.
You have been such a great influence here.  You're an excellent communicator with a lot more to say than just what you've experienced. I can see why you might feel like closing this chapter and moving on but I wold hope that you stay. .  Personally I watch every day to see if you've posted something, new and like you, I'm post-op . . .
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on September 10, 2017, 10:21:41 PM
Hey, pssst, Hey.  Monica, come over here.  Listen. Don't be a whiny post transgirl.
Listen. You are old enough.  You remember "Close Encounters of the 3rd Kind"?  Yea, I knew it.  Remember how all those people were on the journey to go to the mountain.  Hundreds went.  As time went along they fell off, did not have the deep desire to go any further.  Then in the helicopter, the old guy told Richard Dreyfus to go.  It was alright and that the ones left behind were happy for him.  Go to the spaceship.  Don't look back.  Everyone was cheering for him to succeed.  They were living their vision through his going. 
Girl, you were on the spaceship.  Each one of us was cheering and hoping for that day to be yours.  And now it is.  For you.  Maybe for others, soon.  But regardless, we cheer you.
But cuz you got the ring does not mean you can drop off so fast.  Your time at Susan's is not done.  You have lots to offer  So much RLE.  So much to advise us noobs.  Good, bad.  Go, don't go.  Go over there.  And your fashion sense(???) is to still be seen. So you ain't done and we ain't done with you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 11, 2017, 05:29:00 PM
Well Julie, you have to give me a little room to be weird and whine, I don't do it every day. Well, ... I don't do it every hour.... eh!  You get the idea! If I have it right you want me steal Richard Dreyfus' helicopter and do a remake of 2001 Space Odyssey. Close? I kinda thought I encountered what you said the 3rd time I thought it out!  :D

So let me explain why I feared hurting others and then I will drop it forever. There are people who have had the surgery who have different reactions based on their experience. Some are disappointed, some have long complications and long recovery, some wish they didn't do it. Many never get the chance to have it. Others see it change their life in a wonderful way. For me, I watched others get the surgery while I waited. At times I had to stop reading about it because it was driving me crazy. I was dysphoric, jealous, miserable with not being sure the surgery would happen. I experienced what I'm sure others are experiencing now. I then had the surgery. Maybe it was because my dysphoria was so bad or I was confident with my surgeon, but I had no fear going in. My reaction after surgery, yeah, I am one of those who say it is life changing. I love it, want to show it on every street corner (mostly exaggerating here, just at Times Square).  I have this thing that makes me just break out in a smile from time to time each day. So, people tell me my success will not hurt anyone, I will take them at their word. In my mind, the thing I just did, dancing in the end zone is low class. I won't do it again. I only did it to explain why I was cautious of other's feelings. If I am to be of any use to anyone on this site, I have to respect people's feelings who might be struggling like I struggled. That's it in a long winded nut shell.

You are right Hon, we are not done with each other.  :)
Moni
Hold your tongue Laurie.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on September 11, 2017, 06:01:07 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 09, 2017, 04:41:18 PM
Thank you ladies,
   I am thinking about a lot of things right now, trying to wade through a lot of change. I have seen a number of people close to me die in the last few weeks. I was at a funeral 'celebration' last night. I am back to work, but my situation is totally changed. The students I had worked with for so long, kids who I was happy to think I had helped  make real progress, are now with someone else. I step into a new situation with people who have worked together quite a while and I am feeling my way through so as not to step on toes. I am also trying to come to terms with living without my constant companion, my genital dysphoria. I am quite happy to have my surgery done and I am not complaining, but when one is on the pre-surgery side of things, there is such a drive, maybe even an obsession to get things together to get it done. After surgery, for me, it has been so relieving to not have that drive but it is a change not to have that goal.
...
I was in  a dress. I no longer had thoughts of me hiding anything. I was Monica, deserved to be a girl in my thick head, and now can not imagine myself any other way. That is an incredible difference that having this surgery meant to me. I have mentally turned a corner in my acceptance. This is one possibility of how one can feel after surgery.

Yes and for me this is exactly the key to living more in the now. Dysphoria has been the biggest thing keeping me from being here in the now
QuoteI want to learn how to experience every freaking moment, every 'now.'  I am so tired of all the anxiety that has accompanied coming out, being in public, surgery. I need to figure out a way for the bad stuff to be put in its place and make room for enjoying the good. This is my new goal.
   Oh my gosh, I am so rambling here. Rather than being down, I think I am doing a lot of soul searching. Sorry if this is a bore. Guess I needed to say it.
Moni

That's not rambling hon, you're really in the weeds here and I feel for ya.

About the deaths and the changes at work. My big shift in work, which came along with a lot of stress and some conflict in two different departments / directions came right as I was making my decisions for GCS. It was an awfully difficult time, I have to say not the first time the universe has decided it was time to pile complexity on complexity.

I have no doubt you'll weather it :-) as to appearance and function, my new girl bits are clearly still coming into their own, sensation is better but the left side still has a lot of pain to the touch and I definitely get small amounts of bleeding when I'm doing sexual penetration. (For all I know natal females get this too). I've made some good progress on taking girth lately but there's a long way to go there.

Don't stop talking about your journey. Yes when we're in a stuck place with no visible path it's not always easy to hear others success. I was a member of a previous version of Susan's for a bit over a year back in the '99-00 timeframe and stopped coming around when I decided I couldn't transition. I lived my life for another 16 years, femme in private or close friends only and didn't feel the need to return until I had been on HRT for a few months and it was time to figure out how to get to GCS.

Hugs as ever, luv ya girl :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 11, 2017, 06:04:03 PM
Moni you really are an inspiration. 

At this point in time I am not 100% certain if I'll have GCS in the future, but your experience and observations have certainly influenced me.  Thanks to the information you have provided, whichever way I decide I am more confident I'll be making a good decision.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on September 11, 2017, 06:28:39 PM
Moni, by your standard, I should also leave the site. I am here because people in the transition have so many questions and there are few post surgical members here to answer them. Some of the answers I give are unpopular but they are all the truth that I have experienced. The transition is something you shouldn't enter with your eyes closed so I try my best to ensure everybody sees all I can show them.

The transition is wrong for some people and we have a few who have detransitioned on the site. The transition is not all fun and games so you should always be asking "what have I overlooked". It may sound a bit brutal but when people are done needing this site, I want them to go on to live a happy life.

This is why we need more post surgical member on the site. My truth isn't the only  truth so people will benefit from more than one point of view.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 11, 2017, 08:23:16 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 11, 2017, 05:29:00 PM

Hold your tongue Laurie.

Whaa what!! Now what did I do?  :icon_help:
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 11, 2017, 08:53:27 PM
Somebody hide Dena's luggage.

Laurie, don't play innocent. I know you too well.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on September 12, 2017, 04:29:22 PM
Moni,

You do what you have to and want to. Many of us want you to stay. I assume a lot of people along the way didn't want you to continue.  It's what's right for you...

You have already helped so many here. Downer moments are in everyone's lives and all over the site. It's okay. Additionally, you describe it really well. That helps some of us to focus in on what part of dysphoria or depression or confusion you are experiencing. That makes it real and understandable for us all.

Your thread will live on for years here. It is kind of weird but I remember reading a thread from someone who is rarely on anymore. She made reference to saying hi to some girl she might help in the future. I couldn't help think she was clairvoyant(and no her name was not Claire). It felt weirdly connected. This one will too.

My work is about to suck me in for a few weeks so I will be on less than usual. You have a weird ability to effect all those around you. I have never met you face to face and yet I feel there is a special communications I have with you. Reading the other posts, I am vaguely jealous (not of your surgery-okay, maybe a little) but it is not unique to me. You touch all those who take the time to communicate with you.

I hope you will stay. You seem to say you will. However, don't just do it because you said you would.

More than warmly,

Jacqueline
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on September 12, 2017, 10:19:50 PM
Moni Phone home.  I could not resist.
Good to hear you know you are valued around here even if you are one of them.  And you will pipe up every once in awhile. Like at least daily.  I know that each of us are on our own personal journey of discovering our true selves.  With each probably finding a satisfactory end result that is personal.  Some may decide that SO accepting CD is enough.  Some happy with low dose.  Some need social transition but that is it.  Some need to go the distance and join you in full transition.
And each of us have good days of little dysphoria or social pressures.  And we all have our bad days.  And if I end somewhere other than full transition than it is my life, my decision, my truth. 

While, i really appreciate your concern for others feeling, your wisdom (Laurie, you better not) is a different view. Not better or worse and is probably based on RLE.  I understand your stop reading posts due to emotional responses.  I have too and sometime just because it was, hmm that info is not for me.  But not once have I thought that the poster was wrong or hurting my feeling on purpose.  Even if it was posted by Laurie's evil twin. 
Anyway when are we getting a better pic.
Julie
NOW LAURIE NOW!!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 12, 2017, 10:35:23 PM
Quote from: JulieOnHerWay on September 12, 2017, 10:19:50 PM

NOW LAURIE NOW!!!

Sorry Julie.  I had my say here and elsewhere. Monica knows how I feel about this recent subject. I need not give it voice again here. Moni will make her decision, if she hasn't already done so, and I will respect and abide by it.

Hugs,
   Laurie

PS. Then I'll hunt her down IRL.

Love ya Moni.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: RachelH on September 13, 2017, 08:49:56 AM
Reading the last couple of pages, a certain Jackson Brown song popped in my head! 

On a seriuos note, like so many each journey is our own and the encounters we have help shape who we are. The influences, be them short or long, have an impact on all around us regardless of if we realize it or not. Moni, I am confident that you will do what you think is right for you and know you have our full support!!  My life is richer having knowing you here! 
Paula
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 13, 2017, 09:42:54 AM
If Laurie switches her classy and beautiful avatar photo with camoflauge clothing I suggest go find your running shoes. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Marcieelizabeth on September 13, 2017, 01:40:17 PM
Moni -

You know how I feel about our relationship and I DO NOT KNOW WHERE I WOULD BE IF YOU WERE NOT ON THIS PLACE WHEN I CRIED OUT! I would certainly be less confident, less aware of the possibilities I would have cried a lot more, and not slept well many more nights!. All because you reached out when i asked.   Stay, but maybe your role will be a bit different?! 

Love ya! Hugs and kisses Marcie!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 13, 2017, 06:03:36 PM
Quote from: Marcieelizabeth on September 13, 2017, 01:40:17 PM
Moni -

You know how I feel about our relationship and I DO NOT KNOW WHERE I WOULD BE IF YOU WERE NOT ON THIS PLACE WHEN I CRIED OUT! I would certainly be less confident, less aware of the possibilities I would have cried a lot more, and not slept well many more nights!. All because you reached out when i asked.   Stay, but maybe your role will be a bit different?! 

Love ya! Hugs and kisses Marcie!

A new role...hmmm. Yeah, I see a grain of inspiration here. I mean, there is a prerequisite for an unofficial position on Susan's. Maybe I could be the 'unofficial Lauretta badgerer.' I could go behind her when she welcomes new people and change the furniture around, short sheet a bed or two. I could call her and ask if her refrigerator is running, ask her to go 'snipe hunting.' I think it might be a full time job. Shoot, I remember when her post total was half of mine. Now what is it, like 6 times mine? That woman is busy, dog! I mean it is justifiable badgericide, she keeps threatening to hunt me down. A jury wouldn't convict me. Right?
Wow, my reaction to hearing such nice things for you all is to attack Laurettia! What does that say about me? Yikes!
You all have been wonderfully kind. (Love ya Laurie) I appreciate the kindness and the message. We all are fighting for our sanity with this trans thing. We all have our own paths. Recently I heard from a friend who hasn't felt like all paths are truly respected. It made me wonder about the patterns of talking on here. We do tend to focus on our own way of coping. I hope we all respect each other, especially when we short sheet the beds.
Now Julie, are you tired of my 'loitering outside the motel, hooker look?' I would think of a better picture but my eye is still creeping me out.
Jackson Brown song, Paula?

I sent in some pictures of my surgery site to the doctor today (late). I really noticed the scar tissues (between vagina and clit) growing after coming home from dilating in that dark motel. The hydro-cortisone doesn't seem to be shrinking them. Maybe I am getting to the stage where more of it shows up. I am using orange, which is comfortable most of the time now, so I have been lucky with dilation. My only point that I can see that currently seems not right happens when I stand up. I have symetrical little pockets that hang down that remind me of testicles. Key word is remind. It is not a pleasing look to me. If it stays like this through the six month healing I think I would ask for a little tuck there.
I had gained 8 pounds from my regular 160lbs. Now that I am more active, it is back down a few pounds. Doctor said I was more susceptible to weight gain now.  I think my exercise of choice might be dancing. I think it might help me with being a little more graceful. Just a thought.

Moni

Marcie, fantastic to see you face to face. I owe you a dinner. Love ya!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 13, 2017, 06:26:53 PM
Wow!

  She dedicated almost a whole paragraph to me! She does love me!  What does that say about her? It sounds like she's saying "She's Back!!"

Hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 13, 2017, 08:11:50 PM
I like Moni's current avatar but I bet her next move is to turn 90 degrees to the left.  And then we can see Moni's back. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 13, 2017, 08:23:25 PM
Quote from: Kendra on September 13, 2017, 08:11:50 PM
I like Moni's current avatar but I bet her next move is to turn 90 degrees to the left.  And then we can see Moni's back.
Are you giving me the boot  Kendra? Saying I am turning on you. Is there a knife in that back Kendra? Dun dun done... Tune in next week when Kendra pulls out her tiny violin and plays me into the  sunset.  >:-) Oh bother!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 13, 2017, 08:28:44 PM
No!  I would never do such a thing.  I promise, from the heart of my bottom.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 13, 2017, 08:37:05 PM
Quote from: Kendra on September 13, 2017, 08:28:44 PM
No!  I would never do such a thing.  I promise, from the heart of my bottom.
Is that like the beat of your 'booty?'
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on September 13, 2017, 09:03:11 PM
Quote from: Kendra on September 13, 2017, 08:11:50 PM
I like Moni's current avatar but I bet her next move is to turn 90 degrees to the left.  And then we can see Moni's back.

Get Back
Get Back
Get Back to where you once belonged...

For your gig on Saturday?

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 13, 2017, 09:25:39 PM
Oh, comma on you jokesters leave Moaning alone, She's still in recovery and you don't want to push her over the edge do you? It would be more fun to push her over the rail.

Hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on September 15, 2017, 07:47:42 AM
Hi just wanted to chime in this morning.  First off I never told you congratulations on completing your surgery Moni.  I. So happy for you.  I found this thread to be incredibly useful as a way to conceptualize the endeavor.  I historically stayed away from GCS threads, so my experience there is limited.

I feel compelled to weigh in on some of your recent concerns.  You have been so helpful to so many, self included, by offering insight and experience.  It would be a shame for you to let that fade.  You shouldn't worry about making others potentially feel bad because you had a pretty smooth ride through GCS.  You still struggled to even get there.  Yes, some people have regret and complications and other problems.  Yes some people, likely a minority, will look at your experience as charmed and feel bad about their own struggles.  That is inevitable.  Currently, you just underwent a major life event and figuring out the next step in life.

I often avoid posting much about my transition on here for similar reasons.  From my discovery that I was transgender to now (holy crap it hasn't even been 2 years) my transition has been mostly hiccup free.  My family, with a few exceptions, took things well.  I had no issues getting on hormones.  I got incredibly lucky with how they have affected me (both emotionally and physically).  I was able to transition socially without losing friends or employment.  I am still adjusting to the fact that everyone, including my wife, see me as a woman now (mind=blown).  I am locking down my therapist letters for a surgery that I initially didn't even think I wanted.    I have yet to encounter much overt bigotry, etc.

The point is, I have had a relatively easy time with transition.  That does make me feel a little guilty at times.  Given the shambles and struggles that the rest of my life entails, transition has been easy mode by comparison.  This does not mean you or I shouldn't share our story and our insights.  They are helpful to many who are struggling.  For some who are questioning (particularly late transitioners) it is helpful to know that it's not all bad.  This is why I share.  We cannot be responsible if others feel bad or jealous because of our experiences (provided we're not bragging).  The beauty of the rainbow is that there's lots of colors.

You may choose to become less active and possibly move on someday from Susan's.  That's okay, it's happened a lot from what I can tell.  If that happens it should be because you are to busy living life authentically as yourself, not because guilt.  I realize that I will very likely drift from the site over time myself.  I wasn't particularly active here, but I made some great friends, shared some of my story, and hopefully given hope to a few.  Fwiw, I am glad that you have shared and hopefully continue to do so.

Hugs,
Amber

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 15, 2017, 04:37:10 PM
   Thank you,Amber, you saying that the thread was useful in conceptualizing the process really made me feel good. I enjoyed posting on it, I like the humor on it from all the little rascals around here. I didn't want just factual stuff but maybe some emotions too. The people like yourself chiming in to say such kind things has really blown me away personally.  You are right about the friendships on here. I think so many of us start out at such an extreme place of isolation, it is such a great thing to form bonds with each other. That is maybe my biggest pleasant surprise being on Susan's. We may go on to drift in and out of each other's lives, away from this place perhaps, but the support, the camaraderie is real. I like the idea that I might have helped someone else. The pain this thing has caused me over the years has now subsided to a great degree. When I hear of someone being hurt by some of the same stuff I went through, it bothers me still. That does draw me to be here. Well, that and the abuse. lol

I got a call from Dr. McGinn's office today. The insurance company mistakenly sent my check to them. Deb, the office manager had spent considerable time working to correct this. She is amazing and oh so nice. The first thing she said was to offer condolences for my Mom. Pretty classy!

For some reason, I have had an up tick with swelling the last few days. Maybe from lifting. It isn't bad. I decided that I have seen a bigger butt from the surgery. I thought it might have been from swelling. Now I am convinced that the weight I lost before surgery came back partially as butt. It doesn't feel like my rear end any more. My partner agrees. Now where else can ya talk about your behind getting beefier and get others thinking, "Oh boy, maybe my butt will grow." Only on Susan's. Also, they didn't seem worried about the scar tissue I wrote them about.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on September 15, 2017, 04:53:27 PM
QuoteNow where else can ya talk about your behind getting beefier and get others thinking, "Oh boy, maybe my butt will grow."

L.O.L ...you're so funny! Who's got a better attitude about this stuff than Moni? Nobody, that's who...  8)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 15, 2017, 05:27:29 PM
...butt wait, there's more!

She slices, with surgical precision!  Just look at that, absolutely perfect.  Nowwww how much would you pay for all this?  Don't answer yet!  If you call the number on your Moni-tor right now we also throw in the genuine Monico Brand Charm Kit for the same low low price!  Andddd that's not all!  You also get a 30 day trial of our Laurie Warning System absolutely free!  Never be caught off guard again!  Not available in Minnesota.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 15, 2017, 06:40:24 PM
Quote from: Kendra on September 15, 2017, 05:27:29 PM
...butt wait, there's more!

She slices, with surgical precision!  Just look at that, absolutely perfect.  Nowwww how much would you pay for all this?  Don't answer yet!  If you call the number on your Moni-tor right now we also throw in the genuine Monico Brand Charm Kit for the same low low price!  Andddd that's not all!  You also get a 30 day trial of our Laurie Warning System absolutely free!  Never be caught off guard again!  Not available in Minnesota.
Kendra, would you believe my full name is Monica Ronco Popeal? Have you seen my Julian fries. Give me a sec and I will cut my boat in half and fix it with scotch tape and chewin gum chewed by hairless monks. Of course, as an extra bonus we will send you 12 vicious Vichyssoises vivaciously vaporizing humans while humming hundreds of horrendous  hymns in harmony. Act now and we will double your order. That's right that's 24, just add shipping and handling. (About now are you wishing you hadn't gone there?)
Moni
It is funny but a week ago I started seeing ads on TV for a security system. The name, 'Moni.'
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on September 16, 2017, 11:31:22 AM
Kendra and Moni, please stop!!! I am laughing so hard I am about to pop a stitch or three. But it feels so good to see love in action......thank you

Tia Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on September 16, 2017, 11:50:37 AM
Add a dash of Lawry's Seasoned Salt (https://www.mccormick.com/lawrys/flavors/spice-blends/seasoned-salt) to those Julian fries. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on September 16, 2017, 01:59:57 PM
Quote from: Kendra on September 16, 2017, 11:50:37 AM
Add a dash of Lawry's Seasoned Salt (https://www.mccormick.com/lawrys/flavors/spice-blends/seasoned-salt) to those Julian fries.

Laurie's Seasoned Salt?

Let's see: Salty. Well seasoned.

Yup.

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on September 17, 2017, 05:06:18 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 09, 2017, 04:41:18 PM
If I continue to update stuff past this point, is there a danger of making anyone feel bad. My intention is not to say, oh look at my result, ain't it wonderful. I guess my original desire was to tell the story of GCS in a way more that just the X's and O's of the facts. I want to say stuff like at the funeral last night, I had my whole neighborhood around me. I was in  a dress. I no longer had thoughts of me hiding anything. I was Monica, deserved to be a girl in my thick head, and now can not imagine myself any other way. That is an incredible difference that having this surgery meant to me. I have mentally turned a corner in my acceptance. This is one possibility of how one can feel after surgery.

Moni,

I wanted to write about this when you first posted it, but I was distracted by an unwanted house guest named Irma. I'm just now working through my backlog.

I have to admit that as I watch you and the others achieve your goals, I do occasionally feel bad, knowing how very far I have yet to go. But that is more than offset by the joy I feel for you. And even more, the sure knowledge that you bring that it can be done. It's out there for me to work toward, and your success and happiness give me motivation to keep on truckin'. Some day I will post the same type of entry, too.

I'm sure we will all honor whatever you decide on whether to continue here or not, but please don't let concern over hurting others sway your decision. It's a non-issue.

We're all happy that you're happy. Well, all except for that silly Laurie lady. Watch out for her.

Stephanie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 17, 2017, 06:11:40 PM
Steph,
   Hope you are getting back to some kind of normal after the storm. I had relatives with no power, but they were lucky with no flood or wind damage.
   Thank you for posting your thoughts, Steph.  I am experiencing something I think is related to my procedure, I am extremely tired lately even after sleeping 11 hours last night. It occurred to me that if I post that, I hope there is someone out there that might have seen it before and can say, "How about..." I am grateful to those folks (you know who you are) who have already advised me, calmed me, and slapped sense into me. There certainly is a danger of expressing something that will make someone feel bad, but there is also the possibility of helping to guide someone. I will do my best to be encouraging to others without weirding anyone out. If I do express how good the surgery is, it is because people should know that good outcomes are possible. You certainly want to know it can be good for you. I think I understand why I put "after so many years waiting." in the title to this thread. I waited over 55 years to be congruent, mind and body. That to me says, that after all that time, all that lousey  disphoric discomfort, dreams can come true. It means, don't give up.
   I will defend Laurie here. There is nothing wrong with her that a good 'dog trainer' couldn't fix. Oh gosh, did I just mention her and dogs in the same sentence? What was I thinking?
   I truly hope you will be making that post soon Steph.
Moni
Oh, around Ball'mer, Hon, its Old Bay, not Seasoned Salt, Okay, Verruca!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on September 17, 2017, 06:50:47 PM
Moni, in my 3rd month post op I still needed a completely ridiculous amount of sleep and even now, rounding in on 5 months there are days I find if I lay down for 5 minutes, the next thing I know, I'm falling asleep. Having never been one to nap during the day, this has been weird but I'm going with it.

Hugs,

S
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 17, 2017, 07:05:33 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on September 17, 2017, 06:50:47 PM
Moni, in my 3rd month post op I still needed a completely ridiculous amount of sleep and even now, rounding in on 5 months there are days I find if I lay down for 5 minutes, the next thing I know, I'm falling asleep. Having never been one to nap during the day, this has been weird but I'm going with it.

Hugs,

S
And here comes one of my awesome mentors now. Thank you Sadie! At least I can blame it on something besides me being a lazy butt. I have often wondered how I would react to total lack of T. I would think it has worked its way out of the system here at 2 1/2 to 3 months. I did just take a twilight walk with Ann, so I'm not a total veg. Doubt I will see much of my Packers play tonight though. It is becoming time for my surgeon's homework assignment to see if I will need to take T in prescription form. We will see.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on September 17, 2017, 11:27:20 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on September 17, 2017, 06:11:40 PM
Hope you are getting back to some kind of normal after the storm. I had relatives with no power, but they were lucky with no flood or wind damage.
We were without power for about 3 1/2 days, but no serious damage. So everything is back to "normal" around here.

QuoteI think I understand why I put "after so many years waiting." in the title to this thread. I waited over 55 years to be congruent, mind and body. That to me says, that after all that time, all that lousey  disphoric discomfort, dreams can come true. It means, don't give up.

I actually meant to reference the "so many years" title in my original post. I just turned 59 and am just getting started, so it's been a long time coming. I know there's still a long road to walk, but I've broken my dream up into a lot of smaller ones, and with time, one by one they're coming true.

QuoteI truly hope you will be making that post soon Steph.

Thank you, Moni. Maybe not soon, but I someday I will. Maybe then my future self will look back on this post, smile, and thank you again.

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on September 19, 2017, 07:14:52 PM
Papillion home work. If you need some helpful suggestions I can help.

I was at a complete loss and really had no interest. Well, now I can get the engine running and then rev it up when I want to and get to the destination. I made sure I had my homework done before returning for my 6th month check up. Funny thing was at 3 months Brianna gave me my home work assignment. I had basic questions, real basic. She was very professional and gave me a starting point. I later went to a toy store run by lesbians (in the gayborhood there are different toy stores run by different types of gamers). They helped a lot and made some recommendations. I have a favorite :)

My 1 year assignment is a lot harder. Chrystal gave me the assignment. I was very surprised at how frank and upfront the assignment was. Rather matter of fact and pushed a bit. Asked me what was the point of the procedure? I had a answer but I kept it to myself.

Let me know if you need tips. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 19, 2017, 07:39:29 PM
Quote from: Rachel on September 19, 2017, 07:14:52 PM
Papillion home work. If you need some helpful suggestions I can help.

I was at a complete loss and really had no interest. Well, now I can get the engine running and then rev it up when I want to and get to the destination. I made sure I had my homework done before returning for my 6th month check up. Funny thing was at 3 months Brianna gave me my home work assignment. I had basic questions, real basic. She was very professional and gave me a starting point. I later went to a toy store run by lesbians (in the gayborhood there are different toy stores run by different types of gamers). They helped a lot and made some recommendations. I have a favorite :)

My 1 year assignment is a lot harder. Chrystal gave me the assignment. I was very surprised at how frank and upfront the assignment was. Rather matter of fact and pushed a bit. Asked me what was the point of the procedure? I had a answer but I kept it to myself.

Let me know if you need tips.
Rachel,
  I'll take all comers when it comes to advice on this. I am at a bit of a loss, although I need to step up the hardware. Maybe I need to lose the cap pistol in favor of some heavy artillery.
   As for the purpose, I know the answer. It was to stop the pain with a chance at a new beginning. So far, chapter 1,  A plus.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on September 19, 2017, 08:01:41 PM
That was the he answer that came to mind; however, the answer Chrystal was implying to the retorical question was sex.

I purchased 4 toys. The one I really like is silicone. It has rings on the top , is tapered and curved up. I never use the vibrator. It is about 7 inches plus a handle.

There are 5 erotic zones I use. I use my mind and start with nipples. Then I gently use my cliterous lightly.  Next insertion and light motion alternating with nipples and cliterous. When warmed up I use the dildo to thrust to the back of  the vaginal canal. It will not break like an egg so experiment with strokes and force. When ready use the rings to massage the upper vaginal canal.

Experiment and take your time. Find what you like and explore. I enjoy the thrusting 😀
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: JulieOnHerWay on September 19, 2017, 09:12:59 PM
Quote from: Rachel on September 19, 2017, 08:01:41 PM
I enjoy the thrusting 😀
yea
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on September 28, 2017, 05:25:08 PM
Hi all,
   I thought I would update this thread for my 3 month post op and add a personal note.

   I am back to work. I feel that at 3 months the only thing not back to normal is the speed with which I get tired. I suspect younger folks would not have this issue at this point. I sleep a fair amount. I could lift students for my job a month ago. I dilate 3 times a day. Once is at lunch at my school. I gobble food with one hand while holding it with the other. Not great but it works. I have developed  more scar tissue but dilation is still easy. I really think being conscientious early (5 times a day) set me up to have it easier later. I don't mind dilating, but get sick of the clean up. I am not cleared to swim due to still having a little white area inside the vulva below the urethra. I just mentally love to reach down there from time to time. It makes it real. I talked to a student about my sons today. She asked if there was a dad in the picture. I was like, "No." I then quickly changed the subject. I guess I hadn't thought about that question being asked. lol

   Okay, my personal message! I have keep a positive mental state throughout this journey. I look back so fondly at this period of time. I have no thought of any pain or discomfort, only good thoughts on the whole thing. The support from folks on Susan's was incredible. I started to get grumpy this weekend and was mad at myself for daring to go there. I now know that I am feeling a bit restless to finally finish this transition. This surgery was a giant leap in how I view myself.  It is time to move to the next mental state. I have been working, been tired, and maybe been a bit contemplative. I haven't posted as much. I see some  friends who are really having a hard time and I hate it. I feel bad that my attention here may have slipped. To anyone that I have talked to, I apologize if you needed something from me and I seemed distracted. I value my relationships on here and would hate to have someone think I backed away from them. It is not intentional.
   All my love,
   Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on September 28, 2017, 05:33:23 PM
You've got a buttload of stuff on your plate, Moni. I don't think anyone here begrudges you your personal space. After all, a woman's gotta relax  ;D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on September 28, 2017, 05:49:57 PM
Moni,

Glad to hear things are well at 3 months.  I've been fascinated hearing about the process and recovery.  I just booked a consult with McGinn for August.  Looks like eventually I'll have to have my own thread.

Amber

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on September 28, 2017, 08:01:08 PM
  What the heck you Moaning for Moana? You're good with me. Get over it and get on with living girl.

Loves ya,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on September 29, 2017, 12:05:08 PM
You're good hon, you have to be OK in your own self and mind first to be able to be there for others.

Hugs, you know we've noticed your absence, it's all good.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on September 29, 2017, 02:25:01 PM
Hey Moni girl, you are pursuing the dream of your lifetime. Get on with it, heal, integrate the fullness of what and who you have found yourself to be. Get in there and feed and nurture that Moni into Super Moni and share the stories along the journey, you know it ain't over yet. We are good and will be even better as you continue to grow. Someone around this site tells me that it takes time and to let myself take that time......sound familiar?

Love you girl,
Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on October 03, 2017, 08:39:03 PM
Quote from: Anne Blake on September 29, 2017, 02:25:01 PM
Hey Moni girl, you are pursuing the dream of your lifetime. Get on with it, heal, integrate the fullness of what and who you have found yourself to be. Get in there and feed and nurture that Moni into Super Moni and share the stories along the journey, you know it ain't over yet. We are good and will be even better as you continue to grow. Someone around this site tells me that it takes time and to let myself take that time......sound familiar?

Love you girl,
Anne
We went out to dinner with a friend and SO from Susan's today. We had a great time. Won't share too much detail, but I did notice a milestone on my way to Super Moni (Anne's words.)  Not once did I think about anyone looking at me, worrying about someone clocking me. I felt totally at ease in public for one of the first times ever. I didn't think about it til I left. I am reaching a point that was unthinkable 6 months ago. I hold it out there as part of a different stage in the transition. I don't think I can say I am in the beginning any longer. Maybe a middle stage, probably not a final one. I think it may have helped that the quality of the dinner partners was so wonderful. Keep the faith ladies!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on October 03, 2017, 09:06:27 PM
Moni,

  I love reading about your continued progress and growth into your role as the lady you have always been inside.

Love ya girl,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on October 08, 2017, 02:04:13 PM
Thanks Laurie.

Thanks to Joanne B too. In a different thread, she got me thinking about how I have viewed my status over the years. It's crazy, but in self reflecting from the conversation, I finally realized that I am a transsexual. There is no longer any doubt that my old periodic doubting will not be back. All my life I had doubted that I wasn't really trans enough to transition. I now have the identity that had always eluded me.

I enjoyed one of the benefits of my surgery today. I am wearing a pair of sexy lace panties that I always dreamed of wearing but couldn't wear.  After 60 years all I can say is awesome sauce!

My healing is changing slowly. My scar tissue areas are a bit bigger. My white areas are greatly reduced. Not much sign of granulation, thankfully. It seems like my clit looks more visible rather than less. Oh, it is starting to be less hypersensitive to the  touch. Don't know that it is ready for prime time yet. (What is this, 3 month, 1 week post op at this point?)

Perhaps this isn't earth shattering stuff for a post on this topic. To be honest, this is something I wanted to think about today. With the shooting, the attack on the rights women and trans people, friends on Susan's and other places really struggling, I think I wanted to go to my happy place. Am hoping next week is better for everyone.

Love to all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on October 08, 2017, 02:26:52 PM
I'm hoping you spend a lot of your time in your happy place Monica. You have worked hard enough and been through a lot to find it so now enjoy it.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on October 09, 2017, 09:19:48 AM
Wearing underthings that make you feel good is totes earthshaking, I'm totes glad for ya and to hear this from ya! Maybe I'll do the Moni challenge, but can I find a skirt short enough to flash my own lacy underthings?

Glad about your healing, my healing progresses, clit here is really good for stimulation and yes at 3 months I could goto that area obliquely and I could tease out some happy feelings, however they were vying for attention with pain from the same areas. I'll post a full update ASAP in my thread.

I'm really glad it goes well for you Moni, like you and I think maybe most of us I certainly questioned whether I was trans enough. I realized I was transexual around 2001 and also that vanity alone was then reason enough not to transition. There were other reasons but like Ohio in the 2004 election, vanity was my swing state, my private Ohio.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on October 09, 2017, 04:50:11 PM
Quote from: SadieBlake on October 09, 2017, 09:19:48 AM
Wearing underthings that make you feel good is totes earthshaking, I'm totes glad for ya and to hear this from ya! Maybe I'll do the Moni challenge, but can I find a skirt short enough to flash my own lacy underthings?

Glad about your healing, my healing progresses, clit here is really good for stimulation and yes at 3 months I could goto that area obliquely and I could tease out some happy feelings, however they were vying for attention with pain from the same areas. I'll post a full update ASAP in my thread.

I'm really glad it goes well for you Moni, like you and I think maybe most of us I certainly questioned whether I was trans enough. I realized I was transexual around 2001 and also that vanity alone was then reason enough not to transition. There were other reasons but like Ohio in the 2004 election, vanity was my swing state, my private Ohio.
Hi Sadie,
   The Mawnie Challenge wasn't my doing, so you will have to ask Stephiepoo about the rules. Me, I'm up for a fashion show.
    In hind sight, I should have known I was a transsexual a long time ago. After a lifetime of cycling from masculine to feminine, never finding stability, I needed some track record before my proclamation. It's kind of like if someone asked if I had post op depression. Not so far, but when do I call it as a no, at what point?
    Glad you good Sadie.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on October 09, 2017, 05:51:42 PM
I am glad you are doing very well and starting to enjoy being you. I think you were trans enough :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on October 29, 2017, 10:45:42 AM
Hi,
   I am 4 months post op a few days ago. I thought if someone stumbles upon this thread at some point, it might be nice to see how it played out for a while. I seem to have noticed more scar tissue forming in the last few weeks. I don't  have a lot of granulation that I see. It has become harder to dilate with orange #4. I still can do it, but for the first time, I see some blood on the biggest dilator. I believe it is coming from a red area in an area above the vaginal opening in a seam, fold, or crack (not sure the best word for it.) The crotch area does still have a certain amount of numbness and soreness especially around the lower part of the abdominal scars. I am functioning the same in my daily activities as before surgery now. Energy level is up some. I wish I knew more about the scar tissue formation. Is it good or is it to be treated to prevent it from  being too inflexible? I haven't seemed to be able to find that answer. I use cortisone on it, per doctor's orders. It hasn't seemed to do anything visibly.   
   On a personal note, I have absolutely no regrets. It is more becoming just part of me, but sometimes I still get a big grin on my face knowing it is there.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on October 29, 2017, 11:50:54 AM
Hi Moeny,

   Finally something I can talk about at least in general terms. I have a few larger scars (though in different locations) an can say that in time the funny sensations and numbness does go away. Mine are in the belly and are not stiff or hard but quite flexible. Since I was not concerned with their visibility I did nothing about it so they are quite visible. Perhaps if I ever pass as a woman I can pass them off as  cesarean scars. lol yeah right, I'll stick with the truth. They are  badges in my fight against cancer.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: RachelH on October 29, 2017, 12:42:07 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on October 29, 2017, 10:45:42 AM
On a personal note, I have absolutely no regrets. It is more becoming just part of me, but sometimes I still get a big grin on my face knowing it is there.
Moni

I am so very happy for you!! Keep smiling!!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on October 29, 2017, 02:16:52 PM
At 4 months it's time to get an internal examination. The red sounds like granulation and if you are having trouble with the dilator, it's possible you have some internally as well. This can easily be treated in the doctors office and if it's not treated, it can go on for a very long time without healing properly.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on October 29, 2017, 02:28:35 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on October 29, 2017, 10:45:42 AMOn a personal note, I have absolutely no regrets. It is more becoming just part of me, but sometimes I still get a big grin on my face knowing it is there.

That is sooo cool. Just reading that has me grinning with you. I hope to be there too in a year!

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on October 29, 2017, 04:35:07 PM
I see Dr. McCginn for my 1 year check up in 22 days. Orange is tight and hurts when I dilate. At one time I would have tears in my eyes so I guess it got better. I am going to request estrogen cream.

I am glad you are doing well.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on October 29, 2017, 07:55:37 PM
Thanks all. I just read a message from one of my doctors saying I had a proteus infection down yonder. Not sure how that fits in with things.
Rachel, let me know how that request goes. I asked about it and they told me to try to relax about my recovery. Guess they didn't think it necessary.
Love to all,
Moni
Dena, any thoughts on scar tissue? Leave it be?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on October 29, 2017, 10:32:18 PM
The scar tissue a doctor should look at. Possibly a steroid cream or estradiol cream depending what the doctor judges is the correct course of treatment.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on November 01, 2017, 11:42:24 AM
Proteus = UTI usually? hope that's addressed and clearing up.

At our first appointment my gyn asked if I'd had any UTI problems (happily not) but I think it's such a common female thing that it was just expected.

She also asked if I were using an estrogen cream, because Wittenberg says PI skin isn't sensitive to estrogen in the way that the vaginal skin lining of a natal female is, I don't think she'd have recommended it.

As for dilators, since about month 5 I've been using green - orange followed by a preferred toy for building depth at the proximal end (deepest part).
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on November 01, 2017, 08:26:23 PM
   So the infection is vaginitis  not a UTI. Sent in a picture to surgeon. They say the site looks good. They seem to reject the idea of Estrogen creme or stronger steroid. I am kind of freaking out because all the nice pink areas are now mostly scar tissue looking. I am just frustrated because they are short and sweet with answers and I don't know if this change is to be expected or if I am headed down a weird road. I mean, when I am all healed, will the inside look pink or will it look like scrotal skin or scar tissue. Is scar tissue bad?
   On top of that I have been told to lower my E level because of anxiety maybe being caused by E too high. I am already taking half of what I used to, pre surgery. Now I am getting hot flashes again and getting very emotional. I cried most of this morning, even at work. I was embarrassed but couldn't get it together. My professional in charge of hormones doesn't want to check my levels for E. She is saying to go by how I feel. Medical people drive me crazy. In a week, I go off hormones for my surgery (nose.) Feeling  stressed about it all right now. Sorry!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Devlyn on November 01, 2017, 08:33:02 PM
Big hug! I get you on the uncertainty and the body not healing as expected. I didn't know what would come next, either.

Wish I could give you this in person.  :)

Hugs, Devlyn
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on November 01, 2017, 08:38:43 PM
Thanks Hon, it does make me feel better. One guess  on who is tearing up again. Oye evay!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: marctravis on November 02, 2017, 07:41:33 PM
Hey Moni! Sorry you're going through this difficult patch. My spouse (remember she is also a McGinn girl, but had surgery a few weeks before you) is also still going through some stuff. She cries at the drop of a hat. Her big issue continues to be dilation. It hurts when she inserts, and of course it's worse with the bigger ones. Some dilations are better than others and we think stress is causing some of it. She also is frustrated and worried if this is going to be permanent. She is supposed to drop to one dilation a day in December, so we're looking forward to that. But still worried that everything is so tight and painful. All I can tell her is that I really think it's going to be ok. I really hope we can go see the doc again soon. We had to cancel our 6  mo followup but want to reschedule. We just live so far away, so have to fly to get there. Hope you feel better soon!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on November 02, 2017, 08:58:50 PM
Hi Marc,
   If you schedule for MLK day, I might see you there. I think if I was having trouble with consistent  tightness, I might be tempted not to go to the 1 time a day. I am sorry this has been so hard. I have another friend who has had dilation pain. It is very worrying. She is lucky for your support. I think it will work out for her though. It takes some folks longer to adjust and heal. The hormonal thing makes us crazy too. Thank you for your kind words. Wish the both of you luck and happiness.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on November 03, 2017, 12:58:40 AM
Moni, best wishes - I was wondering how things were going for you, sorry to hear of the setbacks and the difficulties from this stage of dialation.  Devlyn said it well... sending big hugs your way.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Marcieelizabeth on November 03, 2017, 10:18:46 AM
Hay sweetie - I wish I had seen this earlier - I had no idea all you were going through!  I can only send love and hugs your way.  I know things will improve.  Please message me anytime with anything! 

Hugs and hugs and hugs! 

Marcie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on November 03, 2017, 12:12:30 PM
Scar tissue should be mainly along the inner labia which are the site of a fair amount of work and maybe your clitoral hood. There's also a small scar where the skin of your outie was sutured, I could feel that as pain (minor) during the first week of dilation. I still only have sensation for pressure in my inner labia, makes sense as that's all constructed and I have a sense that sensation will take time.

Color, I'm pink throughout my inner labia and as you go deeper it looks more red. I think that's consistent with cis hardware I've seen?

Hugs, kick your prescriber, not testing levels seems off to me, ought to be at least every 6 months and my endocrinologist ordered tests at 3 months post op, I've just had another round, more to get a record into my new healthcare practice.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Gail20 on November 04, 2017, 08:39:35 PM
For comparison . . .

Dr Bluebond-Langner at NYU is VERY big on "massaging" low and hypersensitivity areas as well as any potential scarring areas. She says it will speed up bringing these areas back to normal. My daughter is an RN and works for a Dermatologist/Surgeon.  She says massage is really big and highly prescribed.  They're even sending people to massage therapists for wound therapy. Dr Bluebond also suggested I consider seeing someone for "Pelvic Massage" to help with my hypersensitive and numb areas.

I was being treated for a Serratia Marcescens infection after my local GP did a culture on some off-white creamy stuff that was appearing.  I had a checkup with my two surgeons in NYC Tuesday and they looked at it and said it was a normal part of the healing process and to get off the antibiotics. I was on my 3rd course of some heavy duty stuff. I say this because I'd a attributed the deflated and dried out look of my Labia from nice pink (albeit swollen) to the infection. Dr Bluebond-Langner Tuesday said not to be concerned it would all come along in the end.  She also told me to massage these areas too.

I was at 9 weeks and complaining that the Blue dilator was hard to get past the opening which seemed to be getting smaller! It also was taking 20 minutes sometimes to get to full depth. Dr Bluebond's solution was to take her fingers and aggressively stretch the vaginal opening (which is red and sore already) and tell me that I needed to do the same.  She also told me to relax and immediately forget about the Blue Dilator and go to the Green. I thought she was nuts. She was absolutely right. I took relaxation to a whole new level when I got home and was able to get the Green in to full depth (after first using the Blue) The Green is also stretching the opening



Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on November 04, 2017, 09:41:12 PM
Thank you ladies very much. I had a real nice day of working on things that I have let go the last 5 months. It's a sign my energy is returning. The dilation is starting to get more comfortable again. I think the person who called me about the infection guessed when I asked where it is. I then read the PA's email and she said it was at the urethra after all. Am on antibiotics. I like the idea of the message. One of the many failings of my FFS doc was she told me not to message. I have the scars to prove it. I just wish there was a better description somewhere of what happens between 6 weeks and 6 months as far as healing goes. What to expect. When you go into the surgery, you don't tend to think in terms of this time period.
Well, tomorrow is last day for E for two weeks. I feel the heat waves a comin. Not thrilled about another surgery but want to be able to breath through my nose. They may even tweak the cosmetics a bit to correct some FFS work. I come back to  that way too often. Pre-op is done and labs done today. I guess I passed okay today. The phlebotomist saw the PSA request and thought it was a mistake. I made it simple. I just said I was trans and he didn't bat an eye. Nice guy!
Moni
Kendra, you have a surgery date? That is cool.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on November 04, 2017, 11:43:03 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on November 04, 2017, 09:41:12 PM
Kendra, you have a surgery date? That is cool.

Yes!  January 18. (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,230213.0.html)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on November 05, 2017, 03:15:15 PM
Hi Monica,

I am happy for you about taking care of the FFS remnants. I know it is on you mind often. Also, I am glad dilation is getting better.

Kendra, I am so happy for you too. Congratulations.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on November 17, 2017, 09:09:05 AM
Hi Moni,
Sorry to read you are having some dilation pain. I hope you can get through it and don't give up.
I couldn't get past the pain and gave up after 6 months, and now some 13 years later I bitterly regret it. I'm sure you'll be a lot tougher than me though.
Hope your FFS goes well, I've just returned from my FFS with FT in Spain, so my thoughts go out to you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on November 17, 2017, 04:07:33 PM
Hi V,
   I have been wondering if your procedure was finished and how it went. I get my nose done on Monday. Can't wait. I am feeling the need for progress. I will not back away from dilation. I have been very lucky to have gotten decent depth and I will make sure it stays. The discomfort comes and goes and once in a while I get a little blood on the dilator. I look forward to my six month check up in January. I guess I am about 4 1/2 months now. Dilating once a day sounds mighty good. Not sure if I will be doing any revisions. There is only one thing that I don't like at this point. I have two areas of scrotal skin left that give me the creeps.
Moni
Thanks for writing Kendra (Yea on the date) and Rachel. I am starting to like the work done on the eye. Starting to look more symmetrical again finally. Same surgeon, Dr. Papel, to do my nose.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on November 17, 2017, 08:53:53 PM
 Hey  Mienie,

   I'll confess to having been completely inept at keeping up with all you do. I do drop in on your thread every-so-often to take a peek. I am glad I did this time so I can tell you I hope all goes well on Monday. I hate to think of you in pain or unhappy.

love ya girl,
laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on November 18, 2017, 01:29:41 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on November 17, 2017, 04:07:33 PM
Hi V,
   I have been wondering if your procedure was finished and how it went. I get my nose done on Monday. Can't wait. I am feeling the need for progress. I will not back away from dilation. I have been very lucky to have gotten decent depth and I will make sure it stays. The discomfort comes and goes and once in a while I get a little blood on the dilator. I look forward to my six month check up in January. I guess I am about 4 1/2 months now. Dilating once a day sounds mighty good. Not sure if I will be doing any revisions. There is only one thing that I don't like at this point. I have two areas of scrotal skin left that give me the creeps.
Moni
Thanks for writing Kendra (Yea on the date) and Rachel. I am starting to like the work done on the eye. Starting to look more symmetrical again finally. Same surgeon, Dr. Papel, to do my nose.

Hi Moni

Just caught up on your last few weeks and as usual it seems to have been very busy and now more surgery. I had my nose done last Xmass, had it all de-bulked and thinned(still looks a mess, but a smaller mess)...you can't help genetics and a cleft lip doesn't help...anyway I digress...

Good luck for Monday I hope it goes as well as you expect it too.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on November 18, 2017, 12:05:46 PM
Good luck Monica !! I hope everything goes well. I will never go to the surgeon you went to the first time. I am glad you kept with dilation. I wish I thought of using a bit of numbing cream that I use for my electrolysis when I had my dilation issues. I could have put it on the green one and I bet the orange one would have been no sweat.

I will be at Papillion Monday for my one year and closing of the bottom of my vagina.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on November 20, 2017, 08:49:20 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on November 17, 2017, 04:07:33 PM
Hi V,
   I have been wondering if your procedure was finished and how it went. I get my nose done on Monday. Can't wait. I am feeling the need for progress. I will not back away from dilation. I have been very lucky to have gotten decent depth and I will make sure it stays. The discomfort comes and goes and once in a while I get a little blood on the dilator. I look forward to my six month check up in January. I guess I am about 4 1/2 months now. Dilating once a day sounds mighty good. Not sure if I will be doing any revisions. There is only one thing that I don't like at this point. I have two areas of scrotal skin left that give me the creeps.
Moni
Thanks for writing Kendra (Yea on the date) and Rachel. I am starting to like the work done on the eye. Starting to look more symmetrical again finally. Same surgeon, Dr. Papel, to do my nose.

Hi Moni, good luck with your nose surgery. I hope it all works out well for you and you get to where you want to be.
My FFS experience was a mixed bag, I won't clog up your thread with it, but if you ever want to know how things went, drop me a PM.
Take care hun x
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on November 20, 2017, 01:55:15 PM
Moni, best wishes for your nose revision today.  Your're almost done with all these surgeries! 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on November 20, 2017, 02:02:45 PM
Thinking of you today Meeeonee. Hoping all goes/went well for you.

Hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: davina61 on November 20, 2017, 04:00:27 PM
Dear M just saw this, hope it all went well. XXXXX D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Michelle_P on November 21, 2017, 10:28:01 AM
Oh, so much work being done by (and on!) folks here.  We each follow our path, and for you, I hope you get what you need from this.

It's never easy going into surgery.  (Scares the heck out of me, actually, in spite of two big ones this year.)

May your results be good and your healing quick and painless.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on November 21, 2017, 10:51:02 AM
Moddi,

I hobe your dose is a lod bedder dow!

Your fredd,

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on November 21, 2017, 01:26:19 PM
Quote from: Michelle_P on November 21, 2017, 10:28:01 AM

It's never easy going into surgery.  (Scares the heck out of me, actually, in spite of two big ones this year.)


I read this and thought that I have not had this problem. I've had 3 operations and one really hard treatment procedure. I have not had any difficulties or fear of them. It could be that all but one could be looked at as a matter of  life and death. My decisions were easy. a chance at life or a certain death. I had reasons to choose the chance for life then. So I went into them with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Fear never came into the picture.

  I hope that all went well Maundy and that your silence is due to your recovery limiting access to the internet.

Luvs ya,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on November 21, 2017, 04:59:40 PM
I was going to ask if she nose.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on November 21, 2017, 08:21:00 PM
Monica has a new nosey!

Hugs hon.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on November 23, 2017, 05:59:53 PM
Hi Julie,

I will not comment on Dr. Rumor. Perhaps Monica will comment. Perhaps if you ask her if she recommends her she would comment.

Dr. McGinn has taken very good care of me. She inspected my genitals 5 times pre surgery and I gave seen her 13 times post surgery. I saw her last Thanksgiving in her office. She will be doing some revision work on me April 4th. I had / have unique genitals and she has been a wonderful caring person and taken great care of me.

------------------------------------

Hi Monica,

I hope you are doing well and can not wait to hear how things went.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on November 23, 2017, 08:04:01 PM
Hi Everyone,

  I texted with Moni for just a short time tonight. She is okay but she is still very swollen and can't wear her glasses yet so  it's been a bit difficult for her. Beyond that, I didn't get, preferring to just let her rest and recover now that I know she is okay. I figured if I was worried about her there had to be many others here that were also. So I told her I would let you all know she is okay.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on November 24, 2017, 04:15:00 AM
Laurie, Thank You for the update - I was getting concerned.  Best wishes for Moni.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on November 24, 2017, 10:24:03 AM
Hi Ladies,
   Sorry, I didn't mean to worry anybody. Thanks for checking on me Laurie. I misspoke. What I had was a septomaplasty not a rhinoplasty. It is different in that the septum is repaired. I got done Monday and I was thinking "This isn't bad." Of course I was still on anesthesia and the swelling hadn't kicked in. Tuesday brought a lot of pain and my eyes almost swollen shut. I have had a lot of pain since and this is the first day I can kinda focus on writing some. I am not sure if I will have much difference in the look. I asked for that, but I haven't seen the result yet. I know it is supposed to help me breath and I was told it would be straight. Right now I would like to stop bleeding so I can restart my meds. Dang hot flashes!
   Moni
   I am trying to decide if I can go to work Monday. I have students that will be freaked out by seeing my face this way. It is definitely scary to look at. It looks like I am a crazed Ravens fan  who went wild with the purple and black make up. Love you all. (Nice avatar pic Davina, love it.)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on November 24, 2017, 11:15:20 AM
It's a relief to hear frob you, Boddi. I hope you codtidue healig well.

Steph
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on November 25, 2017, 10:30:02 PM
Glad to hear you made it through surgery, again.  I hope the recovery is quick.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on November 27, 2017, 04:23:06 PM
Hi Monica,

I am glad you are ok.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on December 07, 2017, 07:22:01 PM
Hi everyone,
   I was reading through Ashadyna's thread and Laurie's post there. I started thinking about meeting Laurie and Rachel, getting flowers from friends on Susan's, and getting so many well wishes. It was a wonderful time of my life. I can see on Ashadyna's face how happy she is. I am so grateful for all of the support you all gave me.
   I thought I would update a little. I no longer look like I  was hit with a baseball bat. I still have two black eyes and bruising on my neck. I never experienced post op depression after GCS but I did after this septum repair. I had real panic when the bandages were removed. I thought the doctor had run from promises of making my nose more feminine. In fact it looked worse. I met with him 3 days ago and resolved the miscommunication. He described what he did and it made me feel so much better. I told him that I can have great patience if I understand what was done and if I know that what was promised was at least attempted. I said I was a bit panicky due to the nightmare that was my FFS surgery. He assured me that there would be no repeat of that. Now I am starting to see an improvement in the upper part. The lower part is still swollen a lot. My depression seems to have lifted and so too the hot flashes from being off meds.
   I spoke with Dr. McGinn's office through email. I am still using hydrocortisone for the scar formation. I go back for 6 month check up in mid January. I asked about baths and swimming and I have been cleared for that. Yea, I love baths on cold days. I want to go to the Keystone Conference in Harrisburg, PA and they have  a pool at the motel. I might break out the bikini. lol Getting bold in my old age. I like the idea of showing off my new found flatness down yonder. Anyway, dilation is still good, they say the pics I send to Papillon look okay, so I am going with it. (Thank you Ashley for helping to calm me down.) It was nice to hear that someone else besides me had the feelings that the penis felt like it was still there tucked under a layer of skin or tight clothes. It is an odd feeling. It seems more so right now because the scar formation has made things feel tight down there and not like an integrated part of my body yet. I  would love to have a rough month by month accounting of how things can go for the first year. It would help with the worry. I still say that every time I think about what I have down there, I just feel great. Next up boob surgery research. Yippee!
Love to all,
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on December 07, 2017, 10:10:35 PM
You're super brave hon, <3 I'm glad it's going better.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on December 08, 2017, 02:29:08 PM
I'm glad to hear that the nose is healing and you are getting over your panic/depression.  I can't wait for the day I can try a bikini.  To much equipment, and belly (for now), to try it.  I'm going to miss you at papillon.  I have electrolysis there near the end of January.  If your going to keystone get in touch with me closer to the time.  I can't guarantee I'll be able to attend the conference, but I live close enough that I can drive down to meet you.  I think that would be neat because you are such a sweetheart.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on December 08, 2017, 04:32:38 PM
Hi Monica, I am glad you are doing better.

I did my BA with Dr. McGinn in July. I had 555 cc Mentor implants. Pretty uneventful proceedure. If in a year I want to go bigger I will. I still have not dropped.

I go back to Dr. MgGinn in April for cliteral hood work, urethera lowering, scar tissue removal (a lot) and closing of the vagina or making of the labia majora at the bottom. The labia majora will require about 4 inches in radious of skin cut and rearranged. You saw my pics. All I can say is Dr. McGinn is really taking care of me. I think my vagina will look pretty good when she is done.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on December 25, 2017, 06:58:40 PM
Hi,
   To all I haven't spoken to personally, I hope you are doing well on this holiday.

   I realize I am a few days short of 6 months for my GCS. I go for my 6 month checkup in a few weeks. I don't know how that will go and am a little nervous about it. After speaking with other who had surgery at the same time, it is apparent to me that everyone has their own issues at this point in the healing process. I also find that I am the only one dealing with significant scar formation. I have been told by McGinn's office that the pictures I send show I am healing  okay. Right now there is a feeling of stiffness down there. I am trying not to jump to any conclusions but it does make me a little anxious that I seem to be the only one with my situation. Besides this there is something I want to ask about. Where the penal skin is drawn down, I have two areas that are left that are scrotal skin which are lateral to the clitoral area and border the long scars. They bother me in two ways. It is a reminder of what was there for one. For another they are very, very sore. I would like to try  to remove these areas. A third reason I don't like these areas is that they pouch out when I stand. I don't know where this stands as far as a revision. My experience with my facial surgeon always meant revisions cost lots more money. I am not sure if this could be done in the office or if it would need to be done in a hospital. I am hoping for the office. These are kind of personal details that I probably wouldn't share ordinarily, but I documented this journey and want the story complete. There is so little information in my opinion on the healing process after say a month or two. I think a lot of folks sit there wondering what  can happen.
   
   My nose is better. I am breathing well now. The look is somewhere between what  I feared and what I hoped for. I guess this touches on the idea of realistic expectations. I am just pleased that it is better than it was. It is straighter and more feminine looking. I have  a consult with Dr. Papel tomorrow. I know I still have time for swelling to go down. I will talk to him about the best type of skin treatment for my skin. It is something I would like to make better if possible. It is a more rugged skin look than I think is typical of a female.

   Thanks to all who wrote. Amber, I need to get refocused on things to come. Haven't thought much about the conference yet. Would like to meet you if it comes about that we go. My next step is getting consults for my BA and possible hair transplants, what I call my final push of transition.

   My love to all my friends on Susan's. I hope everyone is finding support for the tough times. If I can help anyone, feel free to PM me.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on December 25, 2017, 10:51:59 PM
Moni, I still have soreness in my outer labia, both sides about equally, it continues to get better and, for instance doesn't impede me from cycling since about 5 months out -- there's some pain there bit then riding always involved that.

I can't quite form a picture of the visual you're describing, yes my outer labia are clearly formed from what used to be scrotal skin. I'd expected this and over the many years I've anticipated GCS, it's been clear.to me that the outer labial skin of women I've been intimate with is fundamentally similar to the scrotal skin mof men I've been intimate with, as well as my own. I've shaved and waxed both men and women in these respective areas and that's also been a very similar experience.

My feelings about my outer labia have been that they seemed unduly large and certainly I'd considered the possibility that post op I could have what I'd call a pornstar's or designer vagina -- cute, small, with outer labia just barely concealing the inner.

However, I couldn't bring myself to ask Dr Wittenberg for that and now that the swelling has receded, I feel I'm in really good proportion. I'm not a small person and I feel what Heidi gave me is quite naturally beautiful. I could say that she erred on the large side of nice proportions, however there's two things that make me feel fine about that.

One, the area of my posterior fourchette / labial frenulum seems more than a bit large, otoh, enough women have mentioned that that was an area where they had tearing post surgery that I'm not gonna complain it it's a little over built.

Two, if she'd erred on the small side I might have had inner labia not fully enclosed by the outer and while I think that looks sexy as all hell, I also feel it would be hyper impractical for things like bicycling.

All that said, I'm planning to check with Heidi on some revisions myself, the main thing is my clitoris seems excessively recessed within a hood that's not really visually connected the way the hood usually is to the inner labia. It's a small ting and goodness knows I can get all the stimulation I want but if she does revisions free of fees then I'd think of it for whenever I'm next in SF for other reasons.

The other reason I'm really happy with my labial skin is that it's fully sensate. I think this has to be because that skin retains all of its original nerve routing.

Definitely not trying to negate your feelings, if you want a revision then I hope you get it and free of charge.

Hugs,

S

p.s. of course if you want photos to compare results, just drop a pm
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on December 26, 2017, 04:43:54 PM
Hi Monica,

I went to Dr. Cooley. I had 3500 grafts March 2017 which have grown in very well. I had 2500 Sept 25, 2017 and await their growth. I expect the new graphs will grow in the end of January :) I may go back for a final 1100 grafts the end of summer. The first two graft cost $21,000 of which I paid $900.

Vagina, I am sorry, I had a very different procedure; although, I have a lot of scar tissue. My scrotal graft was not enough and I will have to have scar tissue cut out. I have no labial minora due to no penile skin and all the scrotal tissue was used for my vaginal canal. My bottom half of the vagina will be done in April. I see Dr. McGinn 4/22/18 and I need to ask her 2 questions. 1) how long will I be out and 2) when the scar tissue is cut out will my vaginal canal be smaller in diameter? If it is and I increase in dilators will I split and reform scar tissue? If I do then I have a few options:

1) leave the painful scar tissue and scar tissue ring,
2) get the procedure and live with the results either with a narrower canal or one with scar tissue.
3) Get  colon graft or peritoneal graft.

My boobies are doing well. They are dropping a little but have a way to go ( I wear a bra except to sleep. Perhaps I should lose the bra when I get home at night). If in a year I want to go larger then I will be able to. I wear a 40 pound torso vest on my weekend hikes and was leery about my boobs being negatively affected but it has no effect at all.

Any questions give me a PM. I am glad you are doing well.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on December 26, 2017, 05:05:56 PM
So if the scar tissue is something to be removed, why do they tell me everything looks good when I send pictures and describe it as scar  tissue. Then what stops  it from forming again? It is so confusing.

Rachel thanks for the info, I hope your voice recovery is going well. As for hair transplants, I don't think I need too much. I am just hoping I don't have to shave the area where the hair will go. It is thin but there is hair there. I need to call and figure this out.  I would like to do BA and hair this summer. I imagine I better do hair first as I might need to lie on my stomach for the hair and that would not work with new boobs. It sounds like between 4 and 5 dollars per follicle. My insurance won't cover it. I am looking into BA coverage but that will be a fight. Love talking to insurance companies. Yuk!

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on December 26, 2017, 05:45:04 PM
I am off to make copies on a level 2 appeal tonight.

Yes, for the donor removal for FUT you are on your stomach. I did it in September and had a BA July 25. I had no issue.

I have a lot of scar tissue on the bottom of the canal perhaps an inch wide and it is painful when I dilate.  Dr. McGinn asked me at my 1 year appointment. I did not say anything first. I was absorbing the urethra movement and the scope of the tissue liberation when she mentioned the scar tissue correction. The clitoral hood repair is extremely minor.

Dr. McGinn told me she thought my graph was going to die. It survived mostly. So I am lucky :)

Voice, without raising my voice it is about 180 to 198 HZ. If I slightly raise my voice it goes to the vocal break and then to 220 to 240 HZ. My voice sounds very weird when I talk but when I listen to a recording it sounds like a young voice. At least to me. I am fearful to post a voice recording as well as an avatar. There is just so much I can do. One thing that is weird but consistent. My left side heals incredibly fast. There is very little evidence of surgery on the left side of my throat. My right side is healing but the left is so much better. It was the same for my face and vagina.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 19, 2018, 11:36:13 AM
   Hi anyone still reading this, time for my 6 month check up post. I went to New Hope for my 10AM appointment without much of a voice. They all asked if I had surgery on my voice. No, I was just sick. It was nice to see everyone there. The office staff is so nice and so professional.
    Okay, I'll give the straight scoop. Crystal was first in ( the P.A.) asking if I was having a revision that day. I told her I wasn't sure where the visit would go. She did a visual and took a reading on depth. I was off their chart which goes to 6 inches. I had followed her dilation schedule very closely and it paid off I guess. I think my original reading was 4 1/2 to 5. Point is depth can change either way. I did ask if I should change my cleaning style. I had been told to shower every day and use a soapy finger to clean as far as I could. This seems to have worked well but I had  this thought that after a while the very inside might start looking like the back crack of a couch. She laughed and dismissed the thought of lost coins being down there. She said I could douche with water if I felt the need. She said most douches contain an acid and that I didn't want to use that. I haven't had trouble with smell or discharge luckily. My vagina has  been the easiest part of the whole thing thankfully.
   Dr. McGinn came in and did an exam. Now for my problem areas. I have a lot of scar tissue in the vaginal opening and in the lower vulva  area. She said  she had seen worse but that  it wasn't typical. She asked if I had other scar areas. I have had trouble with my body some places creating keloids. She thought this was maybe the cause. I had used hydrocortisone 2 times a day since my first return trip to her office  this summer. It did nothing to stop the spread. She said she would inject a steroid, so that meant needles in multiple spots. It was also numbing stuff so it wasn't too bad. The good news was that the scarring wasn't all down in the vagina just the opening. The bad news is there is no guarantee it will work to get rid of other areas.
    We then went to the areas of scrotal skin I have described here before. The ones that are so sore along the long scars. It was explained that this was an unfortunate part of my anatomy presurgery, that my scrotal skin was very high up around the penis and it couldn't all be removed. If she tried to remove it now, it would stretch things too wide and the vulva would be stretched open to a big degree. Also, she could only do that in hospital. I didn't like the answer, but I understood it and realize I might have to just live with it. It seems less visually obvious as time goes on. It's still sore.
   We then talked about labia and hooding. I don't think I understood my labia very well earlier. She pointed out that my labia  minor were there and I then understood. The problem is that my outer labia areas were hollowed  out a bit from lack of fat. She said that fillers and fat transfers never seemed to work for more than 6 months before the fat dispersed. So it appears to be another situation caused by my individual anatomy. I guess I could sit here and lament my lack of it being perfect, but I think that is pretty dumb to do. I am so lucky, I can live with some of this anatomy peculiarity I think. My granny porn business will have to suffer I guess.
   We then talked hooding. I was given a choice. I asked if it would affect function and she said no. I said I did want it closed up a bit but not real far. I said a half measure was best, thinking about cleaning it and all. I still wanted to find it too. So she stitched it up. It wasn't bad except one particular stitch. I was still sore last night but feel better today. Still bleeding some, so I haven't  looked at it yet.
   One more anatomy lesson. She said my urethra was dissected and used in the surgery.  It was apparently very large. I figure this is more tissue for natural lubrication. She said the down side was that with sexual activity, that area would tend  to swell more. She said she could narrow it, but I didn't go for it. Like guys brag about the size of their penis, I guess Icould brag about how big my urethra  was. lol
   It was decided I would start a testosterone gel for sex drive. Mine is low and I think a little T won't kill me. Some of this stuff is pretty personal and I wrestled with not putting  it here. I just know how lost I was with some of these issues and maybe someone else might have a similar question. I go back in June for my year exam. Hoping the scar tissue is better. It makes everything feel a bit tight, almost like it is a foreign object on my body sometimes.
    A word on my experience for this visit. I found everyone very nice, very professional. There was some joking going around. It occurred to me that I went in there asking questions. Explain things to me, "I don't understand," kind of attitude. I guess I could have gone in there with a lot of emotion like, "This is a problem fix it." I don't think that would have been productive. Some things are beyond the control of the surgeon. It was a distinctly different experience from my facial surgeon. My McGinn experience isn't complete yet, but at this point I am very pleased.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on January 19, 2018, 11:47:35 AM
Thank you for taking your valuable time posting that information. I suspect it will be more than helpful to me. It's good to temper my expectations with what I will most likely receive. Stuff like this is so helpful. This in my opinion is what sites like this excel at. I really appreciate your frankness, Moni.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 19, 2018, 11:56:56 AM
Thank you Sweetie, Good Luck! Will be thinking about you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on January 19, 2018, 01:38:03 PM
Hi Moni,

Thank you for the update. I know that you have been concerned about various aspects of your surgery and healing, I am glad that, for now, Dr. McGinn has allowed you to be comfortable.

My four month date pasted a bit over a week ago and I am trying to figure a time to get in for an evaluation by my good doctor. Like you, I do have some questions and concerns, all stemming from my ignorance of the anatomy and nothing to base expectations upon.

Tia Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on January 19, 2018, 01:58:47 PM
Quote from: Anne Blake on January 19, 2018, 01:38:03 PM
Like you, I do have some questions and concerns, all stemming from my ignorance of the anatomy and nothing to base expectations upon.

Tia, I am so glad you posted that. I'm mortified that I'm so clueless about the details of the anatomy that I aspire to. I've mostly paid attention to the secondary characteristics, and I have a lot to learn about the primary ones. It really speaks to how sheltered and repressed I've lived my life until now.

Stephanie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 19, 2018, 02:01:52 PM
Quote from: Anne Blake on January 19, 2018, 01:38:03 PM
Hi Moni,

Thank you for the update. I know that you have been concerned about various aspects of your surgery and healing, I am glad that, for now, Dr. McGinn has allowed you to be comfortable.

My four month date pasted a bit over a week ago and I am trying to figure a time to get in for an evaluation by my good doctor. Like you, I do have some questions and concerns, all stemming from my ignorance of the anatomy and nothing to base expectations upon.

Tia Anne
Anne, thanks for writing. I remember some scary times you and I talked over not too long ago. I think at our age it is easier for us to except things not being perfect. It does help to understand the why's of what we see. Oh, I can't let the irony of you being the person who posted #666 post on here, go unnoticed. I thought that would be the atheist's job. lol
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Roll on January 19, 2018, 04:05:03 PM
I really appreciated the details you did go into Moni. I still don't know where I'll end up down the line with GCS, I go back and forth all the time on it, but I am just getting started so I try not to worry about it too much. But regardless of time frame, posts like yours help a lot, to get a better idea of everything involved.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on January 19, 2018, 08:23:48 PM
Moni, your thread here and Tia Anne's thread helped provide an amazing amount of information once I'd made the decision.  You answered important questions I hadn't even thought of.  I bookmarked this several months ago. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on January 20, 2018, 02:12:57 AM
Really glad for you Moni, I'm sure a little bit of T won't hurt you at all. I admit I still run scared from testosterone because I feel it did such damage in my life. Trying to be objective about it I can acknowledge that not having had a T level higher than 20 since starting hrt and down around 12 post-op I'm at the rock bottom low range for natal females.

I had a good long chat at last weekend's bdsm/sex party with a female friend of more than 15 years about how testosterone hrt which she's been on for about a year has positively affected her health and relationships.

And btw yes that's completely me, I go to an event like this and wind up enjoying relationship talk / conversations.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on January 20, 2018, 02:13:59 PM
Hi Monica, I am glad your visit went well.

I did what Dr. McGinn provided for hooding and did not know there were options. Full hood, 3/4 hood, 1/2 hood, 1/4 hood and no hood,  I guess there are many options. When I have my procedure in April Dr. McGinn will be doing a minor repair to my hood. I did not notice it but when she applied pressure there was a slight hole (very small) about mid way. She pointed it out and added that to the list of things that will be repaired.

I used a Qtip as they recommend for cleaning several times but there was nothing on the Qtip. I use a side stream shower diverter in the morning and clean my vaginal canal and spray the clitoral hood area too. I guess that helps heaps.

My hood is over 6 months healed. I use the hood by rubbing on top of it for arousal. Before the hood was made I was way to sensitive down there. Walking and standing even was an arousing event. I have my whole glands penis for the clitoris and before GCS it would be inside but after GCS it was always out and it would rub on my clothing. With the hood it is just right.

I will be at Papillion Monday. Missed you by one work day :(
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 21, 2018, 12:45:53 PM
Thanks ladies, I'm glad the details have helped others with their journey's. Ellie, you have plenty of time to figure things out. We can learn as much as we want about procedures, and other peoples experiences but in the end it comes down to what is right for you. Kendra, I would offer you one piece of advice with you just having had surgery. The doctors don't do a great job of telling us how things will change from the initial appointments til the six month check up. I wasn't prepared to ask these questions at those early visits. I would try to ask what you should expect as far as healing. For me, I stressed a lot because everything started out so nice and pink and then the scar tissue stressed me out. A little information would have really helped. Sadie, I'm not too worried about a little T. I can always back off a little if need be. Rachel, I am sorry we missed each other. I'll check with you on my year check up. Yeah, she would do hooding however I wanted, so I said a halfway measure was fine and she said that is what she would choose. My partner said it made it look more cisgender after it was done. It also seems to make the whole vulva area less open as a natural positioning. I was not to shower for 48 hours after to keep it dry. It bled for a while. Problem is I  have been flat on my back sick the last few days so was not able to get that first shower on time. The right labia is black and blue and things are swollen. Always fear infection but figure things will swell considering what she did down there. I am totally loving dilating only once a day now. I can now wake up at 5:20 instead of 4:30AM. Yes!!!!
Moni
Kendra, one more  thing, those Scar Away strips are helpful for the long 'triangle' scars when you get to that point.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on January 21, 2018, 01:05:37 PM
Quote from: Roll on January 19, 2018, 04:05:03 PM
I really appreciated the details you did go into Moni. I still don't know where I'll end up down the line with GCS, I go back and forth all the time on it, but I am just getting started so I try not to worry about it too much. But regardless of time frame, posts like yours help a lot, to get a better idea of everything involved.
You have so much time to figure things out, I wouldn't stress too much.  I didn't want GCS at all in the beginning.  After a few month on hormones I began to realize that I actually did want it.  Things change sometimes.  Your still a woman regardless of whether you've had surgery [emoji4]

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on January 22, 2018, 12:29:21 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on January 21, 2018, 12:45:53 PM
> Kendra, I would offer you one piece of advice with you just having had surgery. The doctors don't do a great job of telling us how things will change from the initial appointments til the six month check up. I wasn't prepared to ask these questions at those early visits. I would try to ask what you should expect as far as healing.
I appreciate all of your advice and experiences - has definitely helped me along with many others. 
And I'll look into the Scar Away strips, hadn't thought about that. 

Quote from: amberwaves on January 21, 2018, 01:05:37 PM
> Your still a woman regardless of whether you've had surgery
I agree.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: V on January 23, 2018, 09:55:51 AM
Thanks for the recent post Moni, it helps me a lot to judge my own experience, and come to accept things more as they are. Thank you.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 23, 2018, 03:25:25 PM
Hi V, stop by and chat when you get a chance.

Kendra, don't know if I mentioned this before. The strips are washable and reusable. I usually wash one set and wear another dry set. I was told to wear for a year. Remove only to shower. My long scars are pretty flat although still reddish at this point. Eventually I don't think they will be too bad as long as they don't harden up. The strips help with this. I had a talk with a physical therapist about massage of  scars. She told me that in the healing process, the scars can start to bond in a way that limits motion, in a sense catching or getting stuck in one place. She showed me moving it in every direction to free it up so that it breaks those forming bonds. It made a lot of sense. I have heard of tracheal shave scars getting caught like this and moving when someone swallows. The better technique is to do the shave with the scar under the chin. McGinn does it that way. Unfortunately, my FFS surgeon did it the old way, and I have a scar as obvious as an adam's apple. I didn't know beforehand though.
I am glad I have been off work for illness because that hooding procedure has me sore still 5 days out. I am watching the scar tissue in the vulva. My  partner says it's better. I thought I wiped a bit of it away this morning. I am massaging like crazy now. I will have to look up what steroids do to scar tissue. Not sure why it is useful. What is the mechanism that makes it work? Not known. Go back to work tomorrow and will see if I can lift. Be happy if I don't walk down the hall like I just got off my horse. lol
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on January 23, 2018, 03:42:25 PM
Hi Ms Mouny? Mawny,

  I just had that visual of you "massaging like crazy". OMG it brought back some umm adult movies I watched in my younger days. I don't really think I needed that visual where you are concerned. I hope you are not too sore for your work day tomorrow. btw How is Harvey doing these days? Please give Ann a good hug for me.

Hugs Girlfriend,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 23, 2018, 03:59:26 PM
Quote from: Laurie on January 23, 2018, 03:42:25 PM
Hi Ms Mouny? Mawny,

  I just had that visual of you "massaging like crazy". OMG it brought back some umm adult movies I watched in my younger days. I don't really think I needed that visual where you are concerned. I hope you are not too sore for your work day tomorrow. btw How is Harvey doing these days? Please give Ann a good hug for me.

Hugs Girlfriend,
  Laurie
OMG are you trying to kill me? You started me laughing  and then on a coughing jag like you wouldn't believe. I am so innocent sometimes, didn't even think of that.  Harvey is fine. How's Clyde? Still dead I hope.
Hugs my friend,
Moaning (Yeah that one is on purpose.)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on January 23, 2018, 11:00:28 PM
No you don't . You are not blaming your panting hyperventilating heaving breathing on me. I'm sure it wasn't visions of me going through your cute little head especially at that time. I hope you washed your hands before answering me. Clyde is still safely on my desk. He hasn't even lifted his head or what's left of it. Looks as though someone dissected it or something. It isn't any wonder he hasn't moved.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on January 23, 2018, 11:33:30 PM
Didn't you say soothing about a Granny Porn business Moni? LOL Anyway been catching up on your thread and the information in these posts are great...I still have 11 months but I have founbd I suddenly have to insatiable need to know as much as I can and the number of times I hear myself saying...really,I didn't know that...is too numerous to count.

I have yet to catch up with Tia-Anne's thread, there is some great knowledge shared in these threads for anyone about to have surgery. Thankyou all who share their experiences.

When I read what you had to say about hooding I had to think about what my surgeon said and I can't even remember if he said anything, so it is another one to add to the long list of questions I already have.

Thanks Moni

Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on January 24, 2018, 05:31:16 AM
I be movin to the hood half year after GCS.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on January 25, 2018, 05:42:24 PM
Quote from: Laurie on January 23, 2018, 11:00:28 PM
No you don't . You are not blaming your panting hyperventilating heaving breathing on me. I'm sure it wasn't visions of me going through your cute little head especially at that time. I hope you washed your hands before answering me. Clyde is still safely on my desk. He hasn't even lifted his head or what's left of it. Looks as though someone dissected it or something. It isn't any wonder he hasn't moved.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Laurie, you have me blushing. Feel free to put Clyde on a little raft, set him afloat, and send flaming arrows at him. lol

Quote from: ElizabethK on January 23, 2018, 11:33:30 PM
Didn't you say soothing about a Granny Porn business Moni? LOL Anyway been catching up on your thread and the information in these posts are great...I still have 11 months but I have founbd I suddenly have to insatiable need to know as much as I can and the number of times I hear myself saying...really,I didn't know that...is too numerous to count.

I have yet to catch up with Tia-Anne's thread, there is some great knowledge shared in these threads for anyone about to have surgery. Thankyou all who share their experiences.

When I read what you had to say about hooding I had to think about what my surgeon said and I can't even remember if he said anything, so it is another one to add to the long list of questions I already have.

Thanks Moni

Liz
Thank you for the kind comments Liz. Can't wait to hear your experience.  As for the hooding, that is a question for after the swelling goes down most of the time. You may not need any adjustment. Just remember if you have surgery and need to dilate, early diligence pays off in my opinion.
The Granny Porn business is only hurt by the fact I have no grand children. Got busted for false advertising. Thought I might use an alias, something like Gerital Gerty or Debbie Depends. What ya think?  I rejected Falsie Freda.

Quote from: Kendra on January 24, 2018, 05:31:16 AM
I be movin to the hood half year after GCS.

Oh Kendra, don't you know this is a serious thread. Surprised at you! Body snatchers must have gotten to you. You didn't fall  asleep in a hospital did you? Hey that is a great name for a Post Op support group, "The Body Snatchers.'
Okay, nothing to see here moderators! Move along.

Oh, oh, I think I see some progress with the scar tissue. Some of it seems to be wiping away. Afraid to get too optimistic.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on February 01, 2018, 10:43:40 AM
Quote from: HappyMoni on January 25, 2018, 05:42:24 PM

Okay, nothing to see here moderators! Move along.

Oh, oh, I think I see some progress with the scar tissue. Some of it seems to be wiping away. Afraid to get too optimistic.

Moni, what kind of trouble are you getting into? And what's this age of 2 thing? Tough to tell when when to start counting for one's new birthday. I am at 2 years on HRT myself.

Good to hear about the scarring.

Thank you for including all the personal info in this topic that must have been hard to make public. It helps so many of us here. I will send you a message soon.

With warmth,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 01, 2018, 07:24:51 PM
Quote from: Jacqueline on February 01, 2018, 10:43:40 AM
Moni, what kind of trouble are you getting into? And what's this age of 2 thing? Tough to tell when when to start counting for one's new birthday. I am at 2 years on HRT myself.

Good to hear about the scarring.

Thank you for including all the personal info in this topic that must have been hard to make public. It helps so many of us here. I will send you a message soon.

With warmth,

Jacqui

Hi Jacqui,
   I am two in 'girl years.' I don't think all those 'guy years' were real anyway. If you need to think of me as older, I am 14 in dog years.
   I will try to document a few more things here. The scar tissue seems to be reacting to the steroid injections. It is gradual, so it is hard to see a difference day to day. I clean the area with q tips and I seem to get something that comes off. Sorry if TMI.
   I will also try to document taking testosterone after GCS without getting too personal in details. Talking to a friend today who spoke to Dr. McGinn recently, she said that there is a difference between having sensation and having arousal. I suspect this means that sensation is needed, but just because you feel (for instance your clit), doesn't mean that arousal happens. I know I have sensation, but drive is way low, so arousal is not gonna happen on sensation alone. I think many of us are horrified at the thought of taking T after working so hard to get rid of it. I am working on getting it and will report on the progress.
   As happy as I was to go to one dilation per day, it seemed that I was losing ground, so I am trying to do 2 times for a while. I worked too hard on this to lose it. At least I don't have to wake up early to do it and can sleep an extra 50 minutes.
    Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jacqueline on February 01, 2018, 11:06:05 PM
Moni,

Your acceptance, resilience and positivity is inspiring. It actually makes me ashamed of the self pity I often feel for myself. Bottom line, you rock harder than any sound system I've ever designed or heard and with more integrity.

On one hand, ahhhh TMI. However, women seem tougher than men, in my experience. How many men could make it through child birth and do it again? We need all that info. I mean would like. It gives us other potential things to track as we go on our own journeys. Whether it is Kendra now, others scheduled this spring and summer, me in a year or so or a new member in 10 years. Our descriptions, understanding, patience, love for one another and finally(for many of us the first time) our selves... these are things that make us human and make this site worth all the time we put in. It is a history and thread that connects us all and makes us family.

Sorry if that became too deep. That is the closest I have come to describing what I have found here. Thanks for the platform and your selfless sharing. I love you at least like a family member, if not more.

With warmth,

Jacqui
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 02, 2018, 05:31:50 PM
Quote from: Jacqueline on February 01, 2018, 11:06:05 PM
Moni,

Your acceptance, resilience and positivity is inspiring. It actually makes me ashamed of the self pity I often feel for myself. Bottom line, you rock harder than any sound system I've ever designed or heard and with more integrity.

On one hand, ahhhh TMI. However, women seem tougher than men, in my experience. How many men could make it through child birth and do it again? We need all that info. I mean would like. It gives us other potential things to track as we go on our own journeys. Whether it is Kendra now, others scheduled this spring and summer, me in a year or so or a new member in 10 years. Our descriptions, understanding, patience, love for one another and finally(for many of us the first time) our selves... these are things that make us human and make this site worth all the time we put in. It is a history and thread that connects us all and makes us family.

Sorry if that became too deep. That is the closest I have come to describing what I have found here. Thanks for the platform and your selfless sharing. I love you at least like a family member, if not more.

With warmth,

Jacqui
Jacqui,
   Thank you for the kind words, Hon. I love you too.

   I am hoping that everyone who goes through this gets the attention and support that they need during their time. I love reading about others going through this, Kendra being a great example. I don't think there is a lot of info on some of the things that happen 6 months, a year, etc. after the surgery, well, at least in the form of a chronological thread anyway. I don't expect to post  often on this thread, but I won't close it yet as I might add a few post scripts. I still have a lot of questions about how I will look and function in my final form. Maybe me saying that I am working on function at 7 months might help someone else not feel alone if they are in a similar place. I don't know.

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on February 02, 2018, 06:06:32 PM
Hey Mwany,

  I seldom have anything to post here. I just don't fit into the discussion. I do read it though not so much for content as it is to somehow feel in touch with you still. Like I said a thread like this is only an abstract concept, not really on my radar. Oh I love reading that you, Tia, Kendra and all the others that have undergone the knife to be who they are. It is such an awe inspiring step for all of you and I applaud you all for taking it.
  Will I ever join you ladies? Hell, I don't know.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on February 02, 2018, 06:14:23 PM
I am glad to have had GCS, and much like electrolysis I'd do it all over if I had to.  But for me, some things that have been even more rewarding with transition did not involve surgery. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on February 02, 2018, 06:43:52 PM
Kendra, I am right there with you girl. I wouldn't give up what I have been through for anything but the emotions/feelings and relationships are the magic that makes this world what it is. Thank you sisters and brothers!

Tia Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 09, 2018, 04:38:05 PM
Yesterday was February 9th, 2017. It was my first day on two topical medications. Due to my lack of drive after GCS surgery I am taking testosterone. I rub it on twice a day, rotating the spot on my arms where it goes. I am also hoping to do breast surgery in July, and I have been prescribed Progesterone cream to be rubbed on my breasts once a day. The reason for this is to increase the size of the nipples so that they will have a proper size for surgery. Both come from a compounding pharmacy. I have never used one before. I have to try to submit it myself to try to get insurance to cover it.
I have my first consult for breast aug in March. I was excited today when I found out my friend had two friends who had surgery with him today. I should get some good feedback on how happy they are. His name is Dr. Basner in Baltimore.
I will write again if I see any changes from these meds.
Moni
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 13, 2018, 06:02:40 PM
Moni,

I have followed your thread for a while now.  Thank you so much for sharing.  Your experiences have helped me connect with Dr. McGinn and I will have the honor of going on her table next week for my procedure (in fact, today is preop shaving day, Yikes!)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 13, 2018, 06:12:35 PM
Oh Techgirl, how exciting! I hope you let me know how things go. I am glad the thread helped. I wish you the best of luck in this wonderful experience. Soak it all in.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 13, 2018, 08:06:31 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 13, 2018, 06:12:35 PM
Oh Techgirl, how exciting! I hope you let me know how things go. I am glad the thread helped. I wish you the best of luck in this wonderful experience. Soak it all in.
Moni
Thank you so much.  It means much to me, talking with the heroine of this story. And I'm in the next chapter.  Woot!

Btw, I noticed no one really talks about the prep.  Shaving down there sucked!  I can only imagine how the final 24 hours is going to be (I know you're grinning, stop that!)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on February 13, 2018, 09:42:39 PM
My surgery prep did not involve any shaving - I had lots o electrolysis the previous year.  Yeah some of that was a jolt but I kept thinking about the goal.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 14, 2018, 05:34:28 PM
Quote from: TechGirl on February 13, 2018, 08:06:31 PM
Thank you so much.  It means much to me, talking with the heroine of this story. And I'm in the next chapter.  Woot!

Btw, I noticed no one really talks about the prep.  Shaving down there sucked!  I can only imagine how the final 24 hours is going to be (I know you're grinning, stop that!)
You know, TechGirl, sometimes I can't believe I talk to myself. Doctors say I need to stop doing that. lol

   Did we neglect to mention prep? Well, we didn't want to scare anyone away. Yeah, I'm grinning. I have prepped for colonoscopy before and other surgeries, but this one wasn't too bad. There is a lot less prep to drink than the old days where they wanted you to drink the big bottle of that nasty concoction. You will be fine. Just keep a mind of where the nearest toilet can be found.

   Okay, completely different subject but perhaps nearly as gross. It's been 6 days on Testosterone and I started a little long lost imagery this morning. I think this stuff is starting to work. I'm surprised at how fast. No report on any side effects noticed. No noticeable change from P yet.

   Good luck on Tuesday. I was there for my six month checkup and heard Dr. McGinn talk about how nice it was to be back doing surgery after vacation. I think she enjoys her work. I imagine  it most be cool changing people's lives every day. 
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 14, 2018, 06:28:20 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 14, 2018, 05:34:28 PM
   You know, TechGirl, sometimes I can't believe I talk to myself. Doctors say I need to stop doing that. lol

  ...

   Good luck on Tuesday. I was there for my six month checkup and heard Dr. McGinn talk about how nice it was to be back doing surgery after vacation. I think she enjoys her work. I imagine  it most be cool changing people's lives every day. 
Moni

Strange as it might sound, my stresslevels start to  go up sharply with a likewise sharp drop in confidence the closer I get to know a main event.  Once I begin execution, I finally relax.  My scheduling app popped today in preps for Tuesday.

So much uncertainty has entered my mind.  And I know the only cure is to get in that gown and get on that bed in their care.

I've been asked by so many if I'm nervous.  Not at all.  Just eagerly awaiting that moment Doc tells me she's got me.

See you on the other side :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 14, 2018, 07:18:04 PM
Quote from: TechGirl on February 14, 2018, 06:28:20 PM
Strange as it might sound, my stresslevels start to  go up sharply with a likewise sharp drop in confidence the closer I get to know a main event.  Once I begin execution, I finally relax.  My scheduling app popped today in preps for Tuesday.

So much uncertainty has entered my mind.  And I know the only cure is to get in that gown and get on that bed in their care.

I've been asked by so many if I'm nervous.  Not at all.  Just eagerly awaiting that moment Doc tells me she's got me.

See you on the other side :-)

Too much time to think beforehand? I think our brains have this mechanism to keep us safe. It causes us to doubt some before something big. I would imagine your decision has been well thought out. The hoops we jump through definitely cause us to be aware of the motivations within us. I now realize a positive side to my extreme physical dysphoria, it made my decision easy. I have never had a second where I have regreted doing this. YMMV
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on February 14, 2018, 07:37:45 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 14, 2018, 07:18:04 PM
Too much time to think beforehand? I think our brains have this mechanism to keep us safe. It causes us to doubt some before something big. I would imagine your decision has been well thought out. The hoops we jump through definitely cause us to be aware of the motivations within us. I now realize a positive side to my extreme physical dysphoria, it made my decision easy. I have never had a second where I have regreted doing this. YMMV
Moni

Yes.....I considered what I might d if i didn't do this and it made the decision for me. After the fact.....pain is high, grief is at a 10 and bliss is undeniable.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 14, 2018, 08:15:15 PM
I'm over the top happy for you Jess!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on February 14, 2018, 09:26:17 PM
Thank you my friend.....It's a blessing to know you! Off to dilate......lol
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on February 14, 2018, 11:50:05 PM
Quote from: Jessica Lynne on February 14, 2018, 09:26:17 PM
Thank you my friend.....It's a blessing to know you! Off to dilate......lol

Congrats Jess.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Jessica Lynne on February 15, 2018, 12:04:01 AM
Thank you Laurie....I appreciate it! 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 18, 2018, 03:54:28 PM
Three quick points!

1) Techgirl, if you are out there, am hoping you are doing well. I am thinking tomorrow is your day before, which means no solid food today? Anyway, I'm thinking about you!

2)  I think I am starting to see a slight change in fullness from the application of P creme to the breast. Too early to tell, but promising.

3)  For all the talk about trans vaginas and comparing it to cis vaginas, my partner and I sat, whoops laid down and had a 'dilation off.' I won. She had Blue with 4 dots and I had Orange with no dots. Take it for what you will, a silly exercise or a statement that boosts confidence in trans vagina power. I am Trans Woman Vagina, hear me roar! lol
I can hear my Mrs T. vagina muttering now, "I pity the fool cis vagina that goes up against me." Heehee!  (Approved by my partner for publication.)

Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 18, 2018, 04:01:54 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 18, 2018, 03:54:28 PM
Three quick points!

1) Techgirl, if you are out there, am hoping you are doing well. I am thinking tomorrow is your day before, which means no solid food today? Anyway, I'm thinking about you!

....

Moni

Mini, thank you for remembering!

Yep, still here.  Liquid foods are no sweat for me.  I'm one of those weirdos with soylent and keto fuel in her pantry, with some experience at intermittent fasting as well.  Only thought is how cold bone broth will taste tomorrow (driving).

Anywho, real excited, and will feel much better once I check in with Papillion Center tomorrow (and make absolutely sure that all boxes have been checked; chronic worry wort here ;-)

I've read that everyone starts getting cold feet in the days before.  I've felt that.  Just trying to stay busy to remain focused.

:-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on February 18, 2018, 06:12:35 PM
Good luck TechGirl. You will do fine, sounds like you have lots of collagen intake.

Monica, awesome, a vagina showdown. I am orange 4 dots covered.  :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on February 18, 2018, 07:20:52 PM
Now there's a bumper sticker.  #4 orange with dots covered.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 18, 2018, 09:14:47 PM
Quote from: TechGirl on February 18, 2018, 04:01:54 PM
Mini, thank you for remembering!

Yep, still here.  Liquid foods are no sweat for me.  I'm one of those weirdos with soylent and keto fuel in her pantry, with some experience at intermittent fasting as well.  Only thought is how cold bone broth will taste tomorrow (driving).

Anywho, real excited, and will feel much better once I check in with Papillion Center tomorrow (and make absolutely sure that all boxes have been checked; chronic worry wort here ;-)

I've read that everyone starts getting cold feet in the days before.  I've felt that.  Just trying to stay busy to remain focused.

:-)
Please check back in with us. Oh, stay away from the 'soylent green.' lol
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 19, 2018, 01:15:33 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 18, 2018, 09:14:47 PM
Please check back in with us. Oh, stay away from the 'soylent green.' lol

Soylent is actually not that bad.  Using the keto fuel and soylent as my post-op "health" drink in lieu of ensure.  Keto fuel has a lot less sugar.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 19, 2018, 01:45:41 PM
Of course TechGirl is prepared, I have no doubt. I don't know if you are familiar with my reference of the movie, Soylent Green. It was a movie with Charlton Heston where the only food available was Soylent Green which was made from dead people. In fairness, it was really quite tasty. lol

Hope you fully enjoy peeing neatly today. After this, it ain't so neat, the only downside I have been able to find at this point. In all seriousness, I hope you will soak in this experience. You are in good hands, relax and enjoy as much as you can. It is kind of like taking a rocket to outer space. You can either embrace the fear or enjoy the once in a lifetime view. I recommend the view.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on February 19, 2018, 03:01:37 PM
I was just down there at papillon for some electrolysis this morning.  If only.i would read updates in a timely fashion, I could have possibly met someone (however briefly).  Well that and not running late would have helped...
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 19, 2018, 04:08:32 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 19, 2018, 01:45:41 PM
Of course TechGirl is prepared, I have no doubt. I don't know if you are familiar with my reference of the movie, Soylent Green. It was a movie with Charlton Heston where the only food available was Soylent Green which was made from dead people. In fairness, it was really quite tasty. lol

Hope you fully enjoy peeing neatly today. After this, it ain't so neat, the only downside I have been able to find at this point. In all seriousness, I hope you will soak in this experience. You are in good hands, relax and enjoy as much as you can. It is kind of like taking a rocket to outer space. You can either embrace the fear or enjoy the once in a lifetime view. I recommend the view.
Moni

"It's........PEOPLE!!!!!"  Of course I knew the reference silly ;-)  The company gets jokes all the time though.  Their pre-mixed flavored bottles are quite addictive though.

Btw, met Dr. McGinn and her staff.  Mission control reports the board is green, countdown clock is set, and this wee astronaut is cleared for takeoff in the morning (squeeee!!!!!!)

Until later this week, and THANK YOU Moni for allowing me to temporarily hijack your thread.

See y'all after launch <GRIN>
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 19, 2018, 04:10:08 PM
Quote from: amberwaves on February 19, 2018, 03:01:37 PM
I was just down there at papillon for some electrolysis this morning.  If only.i would read updates in a timely fashion, I could have possibly met someone (however briefly).  Well that and not running late would have helped...
We would most likely have missed each other.  I didn't get into the area until mid-afternoon. 

But it would definitely have been nice meeting someone from the forum :-)

Signing off...
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Dena on February 19, 2018, 04:17:14 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 19, 2018, 01:45:41 PM
Of course TechGirl is prepared, I have no doubt. I don't know if you are familiar with my reference of the movie, Soylent Green. It was a movie with Charlton Heston where the only food available was Soylent Green which was made from dead people. In fairness, it was really quite tasty. lol
It's been a while since I saw the movie however there were other Soylents and one was brown. Soylent Green was preferred to he others, possibly because it was high in protein where as the other might have been vegetable in origin. They really didn't discuss the production of Soylents other than green so who knows what went into them. In the movie, real food was highly prized so why did they go through the effort of heavy processing food when the real stuff might have been preferred by the masses.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on February 19, 2018, 04:21:37 PM
Quote from: amberwaves on February 19, 2018, 03:01:37 PM
I was just down there at papillon for some electrolysis this morning.  If only.i would read updates in a timely fashion, I could have possibly met someone (however briefly).  Well that and not running late would have helped...

Need I remind you Amber you HAVE met someone?

Hugs,
  Laurie

  Oh and Hi Techgirl and Mimea? Marnie? oh hell hi OP.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on February 19, 2018, 04:22:29 PM
Quote from: Laurie on February 19, 2018, 04:21:37 PM
Need I remind you Amber you HAVE met someone?

Hugs,
  Laurie

  Oh and Hi Techgirl and Mimea? Marnie? oh hell hi OP.
Yeah and you were so lovely I want meet more [emoji39]

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on February 19, 2018, 04:26:25 PM
Quote from: amberwaves on February 19, 2018, 04:22:29 PM
Yeah and you were so lovely I want meet more [emoji39]

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Well Amber I cannot fault that want. It is something really nice to do. I'm up to 17 so far and you were #3. I hope to add several more soon.

Good luck tomorrow Techgirl.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 19, 2018, 05:15:16 PM
Quote from: Dena on February 19, 2018, 04:17:14 PM
It's been a while since I saw the movie however there were other Soylents and one was brown. Soylent Green was preferred to he others, possibly because it was high in protein where as the other might have been vegetable in origin. They really didn't discuss the production of Soylents other than green so who knows what went into them. In the movie, real food was highly prized so why did they go through the effort of heavy processing food when the real stuff might have been preferred by the masses.
Maybe Soylent Green was made from vegetarians. No  comment on Soylent Brown.

Quote from: TechGirl on February 19, 2018, 04:08:32 PM


Until later this week, and THANK YOU Moni for allowing me to temporarily hijack your thread.

See y'all after launch <GRIN>

You didn't hijack anything Hon, thanks for contributing and let us know how it goes. Good luck.  :)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on February 19, 2018, 05:31:02 PM
Soylent.  Wasn't that a 1970s Soviet space capsule?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 19, 2018, 07:18:47 PM
Soy'lent' was not in 'use' then silly.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 21, 2018, 01:51:29 PM
Hello everyone, just a brief post to say surgery went well.  Tired, need to sleep now :-)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 21, 2018, 03:52:16 PM
Holy Crow, Tech Girl, you just had surgery and you can still type without error. I am in awe! So happy for you Sweetie!  Get rest and let us know how it's going.
Moni ;D   ;D  ;D
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on February 21, 2018, 04:28:22 PM
Wow!  Congratulations - and rest really really well, good excuse to relax.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 21, 2018, 04:53:45 PM
Kendra, you forgot to tell her not to try to get on that bicycle.
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 21, 2018, 05:04:57 PM
Thank you Moni and Kendra.  My bottom is feeling fine, been spending a lot of day two just listening to music, but plan on watching a few movies tonight now that I'm sitting at 30% incline, and still stuck in bed with all manner of tunes, drains, and iv in me.

Barix facility seems nice.  Everyone has been wonderful and helpful.  The room is my own, no place for a second person.  Visiting hours seem relaxed.  The closet for personal belongings doesn't  leave a lock, so it you want your purse, electronics, or other valuables, bring them in one of those carry-on suitcases with a locking it.  Been having my wife get things out when needed, and my electronics have been fine sitting on my bed table.

One other point for preop not mentioned anywhere in Dr. McGinn's  paperwork:  in addition to the fleet enema morning of surgery, you need to provide a urine sample at Barix after they take a blood draw.  I almost wasn't able to provide, but then all worked out.  Know that will be difficult holding back urine when you administer an enema, but needs to be done.

Think I get to walk tomorrow, and no sign of food intake yet (which I'm surviving, but lack of coffee for days SUCKS!)

ttfn :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on February 21, 2018, 05:40:26 PM
Oh, it's so wonderful to see another sister have a dream come true! Congratulations and happy birthday, girl!

Details in my thread, but I'll be taking the first steps toward my own rebirth on March 16th!

Heal well, sister!

Stephanie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 21, 2018, 05:47:39 PM
Yeah the urine sample is new.   I expect when they get you up, they won't let you sit long. I was surprised that I wasn't allowed to get acclimated by sitting, they wanted me to stand quickly. I had a loss of blood in surgery so I was kind of weak.  It was okay though.
I was thinking today that I used to be able to pee or poop separately. Now they just seem to all come together. My partner says that is true for her too. Your enema/urine sample thought made me think of that. lol Oh what is in store for you!
Glad you are sounding so good. Now rest and behave yourself.
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on February 21, 2018, 06:59:51 PM
Congratulations TechGirl, no caffeine for you for three weeks. That includes chocolate.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 21, 2018, 07:08:51 PM
Quote from: Rachel on February 21, 2018, 06:59:51 PM
Congratulations TechGirl, no caffeine for you for three weeks. That includes chocolate.

What?  I can't have coffee after this?  What shameful words to tell a Sailor!


Ahhhhhhhh!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on February 21, 2018, 07:27:31 PM
Quote from: TechGirl on February 21, 2018, 07:08:51 PM
What?  I can't have coffee after this?  What shameful words to tell a Sailor!


Ahhhhhhhh!
Suddenly I'm having second thoughts about this [emoji16]

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on February 21, 2018, 07:34:41 PM
Chrystal should check in on you. Definitely ask her. Caffeine is a vasorestrictor and impedes blood flow. You need all the blood flow you can get right now. Sometimes the caffeine thing is over looked. Smoking also impedes blood flow and having fat in the vaginal are. Fat is a poor blood transfer tissue.

You are thin and being kito probably do not smoke. So lay off my he caffeine for three weeks to keep your new incisions healing well.

Do not forget to ask for sleeping meds if you need them. Right about now sleeping may get tough due to low activity.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on February 21, 2018, 08:13:18 PM
I don't recall any coffee restrictions post op at Dr. Ley's recovery center. I think that I had a cup my first day post op.

Tia Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on February 21, 2018, 08:31:25 PM
Meltzer / Ley's operation didn't mention caffeine to me other than switching to mostly water 24 hours before surgery.  But... I haven't had coffee since mid January for a unique reason.  I'm scheduled for VFS March 1 and that surgeon (Dr. Kim) says no caffeine for at least one month following VFS.  Two days after GCS I developed a huge caffeine headache in my forehead - quite bad even with nuclear pain meds.  I realized how much worse that could have been on lighter meds or just ibuprofen.  I decided it was best to not re-start for now. 

I had been guzzling several coffees every day and now realize I should have started gradually cutting back before any surgery.  I wonder if Starbucks sells a patch. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on February 21, 2018, 09:36:17 PM
Congrats Techgirl. It sounds as though you are right on track. (No personal experience here) I am glad things are going well.

Hugs,
   Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 22, 2018, 06:24:54 AM
Yep, just heard from Crystal,typically no caffeine for 2-3 weeks after surgery as Rachel said in her above post.   Nothing about tea & chocolate though :-)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 22, 2018, 07:44:25 PM
I seem to remember no caffeine. I remember her loading me up with a lot of vitamins too. Hope you are feeling well, TechGirl.

Quick note on progesterone cream. Thirteen days on the cream and my boobs are sore again (over a year since that happened) and my boobs  seem to be growing.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on February 23, 2018, 08:40:31 PM
Monica, Monica, Monica (referance to the Brady Bunch),

Your boobs are growing!!! We need to talk, progesterone cream, I need specifics. That is so exciting. Who did you decide to go with for the BA and if I may ask, cc and silicone or saline, over or under?
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 23, 2018, 10:04:19 PM
Rachel
   I have a consult with a Dr. Basner in Baltimore soon. (Also with Dr. Cooley's office for hair.) My thought is silicone gel under the muscle.  I knew of three people very happy with him. Not sure about high or low profile or size yet. My understanding is that these are textured and not round. Will see. I have a prescription from Dr. McGinn for the progesterone cream. Cann't believe they really are sore once again. The main idea is to increase nipple size to a more naturally feminine size. This is a big thing for me.
   Greg threw the basketball and hit my nose. Now I can't go to the prom!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 26, 2018, 11:09:03 AM
First post op appointment went well. Dr. McGinn showed me that I currently have both labia minor and major, along with 5.2" depth.  Was able to use the facilities before leaving the office as well.

I'm just happy the dreaded tree-stump-packing and cursed catheter are out.

I feel like a new girl!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on February 26, 2018, 05:00:35 PM
Quote from: TechGirl on February 26, 2018, 11:09:03 AM
First post op appointment went well. Dr. McGinn showed me that I currently have both labia minor and major, along with 5.2" depth.  Was able to use the facilities before leaving the office as well.

I'm just happy the dreaded tree-stump-packing and cursed catheter are out.

I feel like a new girl!
Hey TechGirl, I feel weird calling you that. Do you want to offer a name, real or made up? Happy you are making progress. Now entering the land of messy pees and da da da, dilation! Yea! 5 times a day, yeah I know the drill. lol They may give you a week to work up to that. Your life is now dilation, eating, showering and sleeping. Did they show you how hard you can push? I was surprised. Keep on keepin on!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: SadieBlake on February 26, 2018, 05:17:00 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on February 26, 2018, 05:00:35 PM
Hey TechGirl, I feel weird calling you that. Do you want to offer a name, real or made up? Happy you are making progress. Now entering the land of messy pees and da da da, dilation! Yea! 5 times a day, yeah I know the drill. lol They may give you a week to work up to that. Your life is now dilation, eating, showering and sleeping. Did they show you how hard you can push? I was surprised. Keep on keepin on!
Moni

Messy? I guess sometimes. As for dilation, it's all practice for sex for me,.by and large I've enjoyed it :-)
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on February 26, 2018, 09:20:25 PM
Yes, peeing is most, but MUCH better than through that horrible catheter.

As for sex, I'll never know.  But at least I kept my marriage & family :-)

--Emily
           (hello :-)


Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on March 01, 2018, 11:36:05 AM
Seems I'm healing nicely, authorized to dilate only four times daily once home.  Also, they were very happy with my healing progress.  Woo-hoo!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Laurie on March 01, 2018, 01:04:28 PM
Good news Emily. Keep up the good work.

hugs,
  Laurie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 01, 2018, 04:38:16 PM
Quote from: TechGirl on March 01, 2018, 11:36:05 AM
Seems I'm healing nicely, authorized to dilate only four times daily once home.  Also, they were very happy with my healing progress.  Woo-hoo!
Emily, I am really  very happy for you Hon. If I knew you better, I would tease you for only four times a day. I might have even called you a slacker. lol Good thing I don't know you that well.  ;D Glad you are on the road to where you want to be.
Warmly,
Moni
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on March 01, 2018, 08:17:02 PM
Quote from: HappyMoni on March 01, 2018, 04:38:16 PM
Emily, I am really  very happy for you Hon. If I knew you better, I would tease you for only four times a day. I might have even called you a slacker. lol Good thing I don't know you that well.  [emoji1] Glad you are on the road to where you want to be.
Warmly,
Moni

Thank you Monica.  I can only hope that the good healing is due to the good diet I was stationed in for the past three to four months.

Today is the last night I'm in New Hope, also dinner night.  I think I over exerted myself a bit (damn PA/NJ roads!), had a bit of bleeding from stitches and other places (nothing to be worried about, just more than while on bed rest).  Oh well, first time out after surgery, and months to heal now.

Thank you so much, you've been an inspiration :-)
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Kendra on March 01, 2018, 08:51:54 PM
Moni inspired me too, and many others. 
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 07, 2018, 09:42:18 PM
Consult for breast augmentation tomorrow. A little nervous but a lot excited. After all the surgery I've had, I still get nervous at an initial meeting. I still worry that something will prevent surgery from happening. I don't know, the GCS surgery was something I desperately needed to get done. I love that it is done. This surgery has a different feel to it. I guess because it is a definite visual thing to others. This one I just get giddy thinking about. It is perhaps more validating in a way. Oh well, hope it goes well.
Thanks Kendra, back at ya Hon!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: amberwaves on March 08, 2018, 08:32:01 AM
That does sound exciting, going boob shopping.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on March 08, 2018, 01:56:07 PM
Good luck Monica😀😀.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 08, 2018, 05:56:26 PM
Thank you! It went well. I have a date of July 10th. Going with 470's round, silicone. They feel big but they look proportional. I should have a C cup. He says it takes an hour. Wow that is nothing. Outpatient. Go home that day, wow!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: TechGirl on March 08, 2018, 06:31:35 PM
Is it true that you have to get them changed out every 10 years or so?

Emily
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on March 08, 2018, 07:42:22 PM
Hi Monica, I am so happy for you. My BA made a huge difference to me. I went for a proportional look too. You can not go to a 800 in one step anyway so if you change your mind later you can always upgrade.

I had partial under the muscle cohesive silicone 555 cc . It took 2 hours and Dr. McGinn had difficulty getting the right implant under the muscle. She said they were the largest I could get after a the operation.

The Mentor liability form mentioned MRI every x years and a change out. I forget the details. It is in my packet. A change out is an opportunity to rethink size. Anyhow, the Mentor packet scared the heck out of me but on the end beauty wins out.

Silicone feels real 😀. I feel much more comfortable in a top at work or elsewhere. I agree, it makes a Huge difference. You will notice guys gaze down when the they see you. The first time I had my one on one with my boss he looked several times.

Good luck.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 09, 2018, 06:06:05 PM
I tried bigger but I thought I started looking a bit top heavy to me. We have a lot of wind here.  :P I am really wondering one thing. If I go to a C cup, do I have to up size all my tops. I wear XL now. I would like to still be able to still wear XL. Did that change for you after the BA?

I have heard yes to ten year change, 15 years, and never if things are okay. Don't know what is real. At my age lifetime seems realistic for me.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on March 10, 2018, 03:44:31 PM
I had an A cup pre-BA. I wore xl tops. I lost 24 pounds post GCS high and am at 196. I have a lot of lean muscle ( woman comment positively on my legs). Post GCS at 220 pounds I had a 44A and 42 B bra. I fit comfortable in a 40 C and have on a 38D today which is supporting, I can easily put my hand under the side.

So I was told by several woman when I had XL tops on to get a smaller size and that was when I was 24 pounds heavier. I fit very well in my large tops and am looking for some tops that are more fitted at work.

I went to the Loft with three work friends at lunch Friday. They were looking to help me get a skirt for work and ended up getting a dress (I will wear next Friday), a pair of jean leggings and a beautiful ( I can not stress enough how pretty) pair of loose floral print pants, like a dress . When there I spotted a top I will get this weekend, It will be fitted and have the floral print pants and I will wear a cardigan and flats. Point being, after you have the BA you may want to rethink tops. Having a loose top can give the impression you are heavy. To each their own.

To answer your question my large tops fit awesome after the BA. My xl tops are in the closet in the back.

I love to have fitted clothing and shopping is very addicting. I need to lose some more off my tummy and oblique's. I am working on that :). When I do I will have a real need to buy a few more fitted tops.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 10, 2018, 04:51:46 PM
Rachel,
   Did you go through a time of easing into having them visible/ more obvious? Were you at all shy at first? I like the idea of form fitting since the boobs might project more than the tummy then. I have some cute tops that I don't want to have to lose. I do have a lot of v necks because the round collars always made me look more masculine. It might be trial and error. My weight has stayed pretty constant after the post GCS calorie binge.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on March 10, 2018, 11:09:00 PM
Absolutely, I felt very self conscious. The best thing I did was talk to a few woman at work. They were great. One said straight out why, lots of woman have BA's. Another said it would look good.

When I first went back to work I wore more conservative tops. Then it just became what I wanted to wear and not what others think. I guess the feeling of exposure lasted 2 weeks.

I think the feeling of being exposed is natural and something we all feel. In public I did not care. At work I felt self conscious. Then I got compliments from some woman and some guys. A few guys looked at them when they talked to me. It became amusing.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 11, 2018, 08:56:12 AM
Quote from: Rachel on March 10, 2018, 11:09:00 PM
Absolutely, I felt very self conscious. The best thing I did was talk to a few woman at work. They were great. One said straight out why, lots of woman have BA's. Another said it would look good.

When I first went back to work I wore more conservative tops. Then it just became what I wanted to wear and not what others think. I guess the feeling of exposure lasted 2 weeks.

I think the feeling of being exposed is natural and something we all feel. In public I did not care. At work I felt self conscious. Then I got compliments from some woman and some guys. A few guys looked at them when they talked to me. It became amusing.

Yes it is very improper for a woman I guess, but I look forward to guys staring at them at work or on the street. After a few weeks, I imagine it becomes old hat and I expect I will start wearing clothes again. Oh, just kidding!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on March 11, 2018, 09:26:48 AM
Boobie talk, I had thoughts of getting bigger implants and those thoughts are still there. I would say I am 60% fine with my BA and 40% wanting bigger boobs. I think the 40% is insecurity in my body and having 1.25 sizes bigger sounds good until you think about the reason why, for guys to look at and be more attractive to them, in my mind.

Practical side of boobs, under the muscle gives more support. More support so they do not slide down the front of your body. Not having a natural pocket makes for a disadvantage. I have my implants partially under the muscle. My pecks are different, high or low, and the implants could not be placed entirely under the muscle. Dr. McGinn was worried the implants would break the stitches she put in place to make the fold.

I had my BA in July and after a year I could go bigger. Now I have a healed fold :) :) . The question now if can I find my body acceptable? I am trying to lose fat and gain muscle. I want a descent body this summer. Hopefully I can be comfortable. One thought is if I had bigger boobs it would make up for not having hips and ass. I do squats with and without weights to help with the ass part but it can only do so much (my butt has lifted) . Another thought is why push my luck. my boobs look good and I should be happy.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on March 11, 2018, 10:32:50 AM
Rachel if you go too big it starts highlighting the idea that you are smaller in the hips. That is what I think of as top heavy' not balanced and proportional. You know the old expression, "Too much of a good thing!" Remember, not every guy likes really big boobs. Just my thought!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on April 12, 2018, 07:58:16 PM
  In the interest of finishing the narrative up to my final post op visit, I will update the latest. I went to Dr. McGinn's office this past Monday. I'm sorry to miss your morning visit Rachel. Would have liked to have seen you. As it was, it just so happened that two of my friends who were at the Gaia recovery house at the same time as I was (June 2017) were there. We had a nice little, unplanned reunion. I hope we weren't too loud. It was a visit that I requested. I wanted to talk about two things. First, I have two areas of left over scrotal skin  (near the long scars) that are very sore and I had hoped could be minimized in some way. It is the second time discussing this, and this time I got a good explanation of why it was not possible. It would threaten the blood flow to the labia majora and would also cause my vulva to be gaped open all the time. I decided it was not worth it to risk the death of the labia. I would chalk it up to an unfortunate part of the wrong anatomy that I was born with. I can now be okay with this. Dr. McGinn and Krystal were very patient with explaining this. My second reason for the visit was the scar tissue formation around the opening of the vagina where I had had steroids shots before. It had helped some but not enough. The good news is I have 6 inch depth, have no hair in the vagina, and only have scar tissue at the opening not inside. I asked that she try steroids again, which they happily did. If this does not do the trick I may need a second procedure to remove the scar tissue. She said that would be done in the OR and while there, she would lower my urethra some. I was happy with this answer and will send pictures in 3 months. I would have to figure out timing on that to be far enough away from my other two surgeries.
   I am really starting to get excited  for my boob job in less than 2 months. I am still using progesterone creme on my breasts and they have grown some. The nipples seem a little bit bigger. Jury still out on how much they will grow.
   I decided to try a temporary covering of the grey hair. I got a wash out color and found I really like the color, a chestnut, darker brown. I also found a temporary fix for  my thinning hair. I bought a can of the hair fibers that you shake  on and to my amazement it seemed to work very well. I will do this til June and my transplant. I recommend trying it. I really like my hair with these two changes.

Moni

Off to the Ocean for a few days. Hugs. The avatar is in honor of my classmates from this past June.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on April 15, 2018, 04:30:29 PM
Hi Monica,

If you do go to get rework I found the Barix center to be very good. It is well maintained and very clean. There were ample staff in the pre and post op. I do not remember the OR. Also, it is very easy to get to from I95 and there are ample hotels there.

I had extensive rework on 4/5/2018 and go back to Papillion tomorrow for my 3rd visit and then back to work Tuesday.

I had the scar ring you describe removed. Also my urethra lowered (very nice now to pee) and scar tissue removed from the graft part that did not make it. She used adjacent skin to shape my vagina and make it look much better. Also she made the vagina between the canal and clitoris deeper.

She did very good work and I am glad I did it. I had my original surgery 11/15/2016 and this past vaginal work 4/5/18 so about a year and a half afterwards.

I guess I will be dilating tomorrow and I will see how much depth I lost. I was 5.25 dots orange.

Good luck with the upcoming BA. It made a huge difference in my confidence.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on April 15, 2018, 06:41:48 PM
Quote from: Rachel on April 15, 2018, 04:30:29 PM
Hi Monica,

If you do go to get rework I found the Barix center to be very good. It is well maintained and very clean. There were ample staff in the pre and post op. I do not remember the OR. Also, it is very easy to get to from I95 and there are ample hotels there.

I had extensive rework on 4/5/2018 and go back to Papillion tomorrow for my 3rd visit and then back to work Tuesday.

I had the scar ring you describe removed. Also my urethra lowered (very nice now to pee) and scar tissue removed from the graft part that did not make it. She used adjacent skin to shape my vagina and make it look much better. Also she made the vagina between the canal and clitoris deeper.

She did very good work and I am glad I did it. I had my original surgery 11/15/2016 and this past vaginal work 4/5/18 so about a year and a half afterwards.

I guess I will be dilating tomorrow and I will see how much depth I lost. I was 5.25 dots orange.

Good luck with the upcoming BA. It made a huge difference in my confidence.

Thank you Rachel, I hope you will update me on the healing, especially the scar ring part. The more I think about it, the more likely I am to consider the revision.  I am weary of surgery but I am all in with trying to get the best result possible. I had a milestone yesterday. I went to the beach and wore a bathing suit. It was something I have dreamed of all my life. It was am amazing thing to lay on a blanket sunbathing with 4 other women. I didn't want to cover up or leave. The water was pretty cold, but I didn't care. Can't wait  for boobs!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on April 15, 2018, 07:02:54 PM
Congratulations, you look fantastic!

I will let you know about how the reduction of scar tissue goes. I really needed to get the revisions as I had a lot to gain. My vagina looks nothing like it did and I am very please so far. I am hoping dilation is not so painful now. I had a lot of scar tissue and it was very painful to dilate.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 05, 2018, 09:30:03 AM
Not sure if anyone interested in this at this point but feel a desire to finish the whole story.

I had my hair transplant 2 weeks ago. It was with Dr. Jerry Cooley in Charlotte, North Carolina. They have 2 people working on your head and 6 people dissecting the strip of removed hair. The doctor was in the room working 95 % of the time that I was conscious (I asked and they said that was accurate for him being there for the surgery as a whole). They give you Valium and have you pick out 5 movies to watch. I remember parts of 2 of them, the rest I slept. It was 2500 grafts and we started at 7 am and ended at 5 or 6 pm. It was highly professional, everyone was friendly and 'cool' with a trans woman. No problem.  I talked to the doctor who I highly recommend, and he said there are about four others in the country who he would recommend other than himself. A lot out there don't know what they are doing to varying degrees. The hardest part is spraying your head every hour awake (3 days) and every 2 hours at night(2 nights.) I don't know the final result for quite a few months but it all seems to have taken.

I am approaching 3 months since my last visit for the scarring around the open of my vagina. I will send pictures in today or tomorrow and see what they say. The big ridge of scarring is reduced but still there. I am thinking about  some revision. I am thinking about a more defined inner labia. For those who are thinking about this surgery or who have had it and are healing, it is hard to know what the final result will be. There is so much variety of vulvas out there, it is hard to say if what is in your mind's eye is realistic. No matter what doctor I have had, I am always wondering going into a visit, "Is what this doctor saying right for them or for me?" Now, I do feel like McGinn wants a good result, always have. I don't  know what her definition of that is yet. I will keep adding on this thread until I have a final report card on my surgery with Dr. McGinn. My only personal final grade so far is depth which is an A plus. 

Of my doctors so far, I have these results.

Dr. _____ in Philly for FFS.  Aweful, horrible. (Left out name due to rules, could hint in a PM if you want)

Dr. McGinn in Philly for GCS. Report not finished, but positive so far.

Dr. Ira Papel in Baltimore. Very good on eye repair from FFS disaster. Did nice job on deviated septum and repairing                        nose issues from FFS.

Dr. Jerry Cooley in Charlotte, N.C. for hair transplant. Final result not done but impressed so far.

Dr. Adam Basner in Baltimore area. Breast implants. Will see next Tuesday.

Oh, for electrologist in Maryland area. I love Electrology of Frederick. Tricia is awesome and so is Sally. So trans friendly.

Will report next time on response from McGinn and experience with breast surgery. Later!
Title: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: steph2.0 on July 05, 2018, 10:14:52 AM
Thank you for the update, Moni. I read every word and it's so helpful. Please keep us up to date!

Stephanie
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 05, 2018, 04:23:06 PM
Hi Moni

So glad you hair implants went well. I know how time consuming having them done is but I have to admit that when I had mine done I really remember much about it. I was given a drink of very sweet cordial laced with ?? and that was it...good night Irene!! I can remember being really paranoid about losing implants and when I came back to see the Dr the following day he reassured me that they were already rock solid and not going anywhere.

It certainly can be hit and miss  with he Drs but from what you have said you sound like you have had a reasonable run with them apart from the obvious one (Philly)


As you know I am having "the surgery" in November and always read with interest anything post op women have to say.


Thanks for letting us know how you are getting on. Good luck with the hair implants...you won't need it and you will love them  ;) ;)

Take care

Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 05, 2018, 07:46:28 PM
Thanks Steph and Liz. What I forgot to mention is the donor site. They really only shaved the strip that was the donor material. It is amazing how little they disturbed. I have an estimated (by partner) 80 stitches back there and she finds it really hard to find the stitches. I will wait one more week to have a friend remove the stitches. I'll be on pain killers from the breast surgery then so why not. N. Carolina is too far to go to have them remove them. They are uncomfortable by the end of the day.
Look forward to hearing your stories! Luv ya!
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 08, 2018, 05:13:43 PM
I am glad you survived the ATP spraying. That was the most difficult part of the hair transplant process. The spraying every 2-3 hours really got old the third day.

After I had my revision surgery with Dr. McGinn I had some granulation which they treated three times with silver nitrate and two of those times with steroids. There is just one minor spot I will have cut in September. It is a piece of tissue the healed but has a gap underneath. No big deal and just a very minor issue. I was told to dilate with the prescription hydroquarterzone cream with purple and orange each night. All I can say is there is no scar tissue, the vaginal canal looks and feels awesome and dilation is not painful. The doctor took some depth when she removed the scar tissue in the vaginal canal.

Dr. McGinn gave me a free butt lift when she removed and rearranged all the skin for the revision and creation of the bottom of the vagina. Very happy with that.

The PAc handed me a mirror last visit (funny how I stopped looking when it became second nature). My vagina, citreous, clitoral hood and vaginal canal look awesome. Also, she moved my urethra and deepened my vagina. I am very happy.

The only thing I could say that was part of the rework and there was no way getting around it is I have a posterior scar (heeling and flat and starting to blend in). It is about 5 inches long on either side of the bottom of the vagina. At first the scar bothered me but when it healed and flattened is became a non issue. My legs do not touch with Capri tights when hiking, so there is no rubbing. I do not know if there would be an issue if they did touch.

Good luck on you pending BA. I am so happy for you.

Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 08, 2018, 07:30:41 PM
Spraying...what's this spraying you are talking about?

You cannot see either of the scar lines on my head from the removal of the strip of scalp at the donor site. My hairdresser was looking the last time I was in and I had to direct her to the area and even then it took her awhile to see it.

I am thinking about having another 1500 or so into my fringe area just to thicken it up a bit...haven't really decide yet. You have the fun part of the erupting scalp from ingrown hairs to go through next...did they warn you about that...hope so. You may be in for a surprise if they didn't.

Hope its all going well

Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 08, 2018, 08:02:54 PM
Quote from: ElizabethK on July 08, 2018, 07:30:41 PM
Spraying...what's this spraying you are talking about?

You cannot see either of the scar lines on my head from the removal of the strip of scalp at the donor site. My hairdresser was looking the last time I was in and I had to direct her to the area and even then it took her awhile to see it.

I am thinking about having another 1500 or so into my fringe area just to thicken it up a bit...haven't really decide yet. You have the fun part of the erupting scalp from ingrown hairs to go through next...did they warn you about that...hope so. You may be in for a surprise if they didn't.

Hope its all going well

Liz

No, Liz, that's the first have heard of this. Is this an issue that needs to be looked into if it happens? My hair hasn't even shed at this point. I guess the regrowth can grow in wrong causing the ingrown hairs? Is this considerable or minor? Right now I just want my stitches out. They are sore. The spraying is to provide a good environment until the grafts take root. You cover with saran wrap after you spray.

Hey Rachel, are you happy with the definition of the inner labia? I have been looking at a lot of labiaplasty  pictures as I am not really thrilled with the definition of mine at this point. I sent pictures in Friday. Maybe hear something tomorrow! I call for surgery time tomorrow. Hope it is early. I think I'm keyed up since I slept about 5 hours last night. Have been trying to do all my physical stuff before the 'boobs hit the fan.'
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: LizK on July 09, 2018, 03:09:25 AM
When the first round of implants breaks off to replace the hair I got a heap of ingrown hairs that kept producing sebum without being able to Breakthrough the scalp...they all seem to come around the same time and from memory and its about 3-4 weeks out that it started and lasted about 2 -3 weeks. I didn't mind too much it just meant another hair follicle was working. It feels like you have large bumps on your head and once the hair is through they pop like zits...usually once it is through it will not do it again. I was so surprised when it first happened that I thought I had an infection...with each of those lumps clearing up I began to get sensation back into my scalp.

I never used the spray nor was one suggested...hmmm might have to look into that and see why for the next round

Liz
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 09, 2018, 06:29:05 AM
Liz,
   I looked it up online and what I found is that the ATP spray is used  to reduce hair loss from the shock of transplantation. When hairs are transplanted, the follicles lose their blood supply and thus oxygen supply. ATP is a possible energy supply to get the hairs to the point where energy supply can be found in the bed of the scalp. My understanding is the spray is expensive and hard to get in some places outside the US. There is not a lot of studies reporting on its effectiveness from what I saw.
   I used the spray very diligently, but a lot of people don't follow through because of time and inconvenience. I was driving the day after surgery and I had to stop and spray every hour. Made for a long trip.
   I had them cover my facial surgery scar in the center to hide it so I can wear my hair back or to the sides. I think I will now lose the bang look. Thanks for writing!
Moni
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Anne Blake on July 09, 2018, 11:31:16 PM
Liz and Moni, I had a couple of rounds of hair transplants by Dr. Lam in the Dallas area, the last being ten weeks ago. He was a huge fan of using the ATP spray frequently for the first bucket load of days post surgery. I followed his instructions rigorously and had very little fall out or loss of grafted hair, and also very few ingrown hairs. For what it is worth.

Tia Anne
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: HappyMoni on July 11, 2018, 05:05:56 PM
Thanks Tia,
   Wow, that will take getting used to, not calling you Anne. (Now that you are soon to be a married womanagain!) Liz, I looked through my paperwork from Dr. Cooley and  it mentioned it. Must have skipped past that 'highlight.' It sounds like such fun, I can't wait.

   I have  an appointment at Dr. McGinn's to try a next round of steroid shots in my vagina. It will also be a time to ask some questions about thoughts on revisions.
Title: Re: GCS with McGinn (After so many years waiting)
Post by: Rachel on July 12, 2018, 05:19:25 PM
Hi Monica,

I did not have any penile tissue to make the labia minora. So I do not have labia minora. I had a deeper vagina from the revision so I have nice labia majora. There was a lot of work done inside the vagina so there is tissue there that makes the appearance of some minora. I need to take some pics and send them to you.

Good luck on the BA.