Just a girl, in the world
PAUL CHAI
09 Sep, 2012 03:01 AM
http://www.hawkesburygazette.com.au/news/national/national/general/just-a-girl-in-the-world/2658769.aspx?storypage=0
Riley, 15, from Sydney's north shore, is biologically male – but says being born a boy simply never made any sense.
For Riley, 2012 has been a watershed year. After going to school with bras secreted under her school shirt and with minimal make-up, she started wearing the girls' school uniform. She is also doing some schooling of her own, teaching the teachers in the correct use of transgender pronouns.
Riley's parents, Carol and Chris, have always been incredibly supportive, which has helped her navigate the difficult path through school. "In primary school it was hard but looking back it was easier than high school," Riley says.
There is the teasing, the bullying and a vicious rumour mill to contend with, but Riley, whom Carol rates as the bravest person she has ever known, has stood up to it all.
"In primary school, Riley had panic attacks," says Carol.
For back-up, Riley turns to social media, getting strength from a network of transsexual kids who tell their stories via YouTube and other websites. She also goes to a support group in the inner city, and has a local suburban support group – although, she confesses, "it's just me and one other kid".
