8/9/2012 3:31 AM
Mary Jo Podgurski:
'Ask Mary Jo'
Questions about gender addressed
http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/podgurski11/08-09-2012-Ask-Mary-JoBoth of my questions today deal with transgender teens. I am blessed to have a consultant in my good friend Emmett Patterson. Emmett was an outstanding peer educator with our Outreach for five years and has earned my complete trust. During his senior year, Emmett was the supervisor at our Common Ground Teen Center. He leaves for American University in a few weeks and is extremely busy but was gracious and offered his perspective. His excellent responses follow mine. Thanks, Emmett!!
Q. Sometimes I think I might be trans. At least I know I'm miserable the way I am. I told my mom, and she didn't freak, which was great. She said we should talk to you. I have so many questions. What do I do next? 15-year-old born male but really a girl
Mary Jo's response: One of my foundational beliefs is that young people have the capacity for wisdom and strength. Your short text gives me a glimpse of your life, and I think you possess both attributes. Talking to your mom about something as difficult as gender identity is huge. I'm thrilled that you had the courage to go to a parent first. I'm happy that your mom accepted your identity. I'm also blessed that she suggested we talk. I'd love to meet with both you and your mom. Just name the time/date.
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Emmett's response: The first (and usually hardest) step for any person who may be questioning their gender identity is letting their immediate family know. And the fact that your mom is willing to sit down and talk with you is a HUGE step!
