Where do I fit in?

[AdamFinally]

I'm looking forward to going to the Trans Health Conference in Philly this June, but it's got me wondering where I fit in. I'm newly identified as trans, but only because I just recently learned what it meant. I have had the feelings of being trans my whole life but am just now understanding that there are other people like me. So, I'm wondering where I fit into the trans spectrum when I meet other people. I'm pre-t and pre-op, but I feel compelled to seek out hrt and srs. My questions are, is anyone else going to the THC, and do you think a pre-t transguy can fit in there?

[PrincessLeiah]

Hi Adam! First off, congratulations on taking the first steps in your journey by coming to terms with this about yourself and seeking out community--that's a super important thing, I feel.

As for PTHC, its an amazingly diverse and welcoming get together, with folks from just about every place on the spectrum and at every point in their journeys. When I attended last year, I had only been out to my closest friends for a couple of months if that, and I like you was pre-everything regarding transition. I didnt even feel confint enough to wear a skirt to the conference until the second day (I myself am MtF). I had a great time and really enjoyed going. If you want, I'd love to get in touch prior to the event so we can meet up and hang out. I'm mostly involved in the Jewish programming there, but I'm also hoping to get some board gaming going in the big social room.

Cheers!

Leiah

[Ltl89]

Hey Adam,

I think you would fit in perfectly at the conference.  If you are trans, than what would make you feel you wouldn't?  Don't worry that you aren't on hrt yet or anything.  That doesn't define your identity.  Besides, everyone has to start somewhere.  You shouldn't feel like there is some trans hierarchy that you need to climb to prove your gender orientation.  Just have fun and socialize as yourself. 

[Shannon1979]

I think you will find it much like here, albeit phsically rarther than electronically. There will be people at all stages of transition there, so just be yourself dress how you feel comfortable. Obviously being in the uk i wont be attending sry, but like you i am pre hrt just MtF instead of FtM. at first i was very nervous about being out anywhere in case i got comments and such. But honestly apart from the odd moron who is worth the breath of argueing with i have had no problems in that respect.

[Rachel]

I will be at the PTHC and I am pre AA and E. However, I will be on HRT soon. This is my 1st time going but there will be 1000's of Trans* there of all kinds and a few hundred different topics. Mazzoni has a link to the PTHC with a listing of all the different topics. I am just learning to accept and be myself so it will be very enlightning.

I was in the Gayborhood this weekend and it was absolutely alive with people. I think it is the most alive part of the city.

[AdamFinally]

Thanks to everybody for the responses! It is intimidating to imagine being in a room full of people who have been dealing with identity issues for longer than me. I'm relieved to receive a positive response and I'm really looking forward to the conference.

If you want, I'd love to get in touch prior to the event so we can meet up and hang out. I'm mostly involved in the Jewish programming there, but I'm also hoping to get some board gaming going in the big social room.

I'd love to meet up with anyone who is going! I'm eager to meet as many people as possible!