Yo everyone =)

[Jenny94]

Hi guys, my name's Leila (I think - still need to decide 100 per cent!). I'm 22 and had been living as a cis male all my life, but recently realised...nope! It's like a lightbulb switched on in my head. I guess 22 is pretty late for such a revelation, and I still need to do a ton of working myself out. Can't lie, it's difficult at the moment. I haven't worked out how to pass as a girl in public, so I mostly stay indoors as Leila; we'll say she's a vampire.

Saw the doctor today, to get assigned to a Gender Identity Clinic. I live in the UK (London), where the system is, 8 clinics in the whole damn country and months-long waiting lists for a first appointment, as the doctor pointed out to me with only too much glee. Oh well, at least I'm on the list, so the ball is rolling, albeit at painfully slow NHS pace.

TL;DR - I'm new to the girl thing, but hopefully I can get it right at some point and we can all get along together! =)

[Mirath]

Welcome to you, we hope you enjoy your stay here. If you need anything, even to just talk, feel free to message us

I'm also in the process of being referred to a GIC, takes so long from what I've read

[Michelle_P]

Hi, Leila!

No, 22 is definitely not late.  I figured out what I really was (as opposed to what those nuns said I was!) at age 33, and finally hit the switch at age 62.

Seeing a doctor to eventually gain access to a Gender Clinic is a great first move.  We have lots of UK members here who can help you along with learning the system there.  (I'm in the USA.  Our 'system' is pretty much free-floating chaos!)

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[Kendra]

Hi Leila, and welcome!  You might be surprised how much we all have in common.  I think it's awesome you brought this up with your doctor, you are doing more to define yourself and your future.

I don't have all the answers but I can tell you from my own experience, the most important thing about passing is in your mind.  Adjusting physical appearance and clothing does help, but those are details.  Sometimes I get impatient and then have to remind myself I am changing habits I developed over many years. 

I live in the US and have enjoyed traveling to the UK many times.  It's an great place but I hear the frustrations with NHS waiting and regulations.  If you are determined you will find a way.

If you think 22 is a bit late to begin exploring who you really are, another UK resident might disagree.  Patricia Davies did some news interviews when she recently started her MTF transition.  She is 90. 

All the best,

Kendra

[Charlotte F]

Hey Leila - good to welcome a fellow Brit on board!

Unfortunately the NHS isn't the fastest but at least you have made that all important first step on your travels.  I definitely know where you're coming from with it seeming like there's a mountain of things to get through at the beginning but I'm sure it will all come together for you - there's certainly a wealth of useful information and support to be had from your sisters and brothers here

Charlotte x

[RobynTx]

Welcome to the forums.  Twenty-two is pretty early to me.  I'm 41 and just started my journey last month.

[V M]

Hi Leila 

Welcome to Susan's Place    Glad to have you here, join on in the fun

Hugs

V M

[Jenny94]

Thanks all for your lovely replies. I'm taking things one step at a time at the moment, as suggested.

I don't have all the answers but I can tell you from my own experience, the most important thing about passing is in your mind.  Adjusting physical appearance and clothing does help, but those are details.  Sometimes I get impatient and then have to remind myself I am changing habits I developed over many years.

Thanks Kendra, that's really helpful. I need to keep remind myself that it's a long old road wherever I end up. Also, the story of Partricia is amazing, but so sad as well! I'm lucky to live in the time and place where I do.

Anyway, thank you all again and hopefully see you around on the forum. =)

[amysecrets85]

Hi Leila, welcome. You will love this site, and the people who frequent it. Time will fly and soon you will have your appointment. Enjoy love!

Amy!

[Kendra]

Leila since you mentioned a long road - here's a thread involving a road trip across the entire US, from someone who had barely stepped outside as her true self.    https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,224341.0.html