my intro

[Ashley32]

Hello everybody. I'm a 37yo transwoman from eastern shore Maryland. I'm a long time lurker, but never made an account. This site was one of the first I remember visiting when I discovered that I'm trans, back in 2002. I spent years doing the research everything trans and then bury and repress cycle. Until my mental health declined to the point where I cracked and was forced to get help.

I guess I'm mid transition? I've been in therapy for about 2 years and have been on HRT for 14 months. I'm openly trans and out 100%. I've had a legal name change and been doing LHR on the face for close to a year. Just recently did a surgical consult for SRS.

The whole process has been incredibly positive. I went from a suicidal wreck with anxiety so bad I cold hardly leave the house and was terrified to be around people to having almost no depression at all and no anxiety. I never would have believed I could be going through transition and not be having panic attacks in public.

Coming out was a significant turning point. I've been incredibly fortunate to have a very supportive wife and also not lose any friends or family.  I haven't been treated poorly by anybody. I suppose it will happen someday, but I doubt it will have any effect on me. I'm too comfortable now, I actually feel like a real person for once.

That's it for my into. I hope my time here will have a positive impact.

[Jessica]

Hi Ashley 🙋‍♀️ Welcome to Susan's, I'm Jessica! It sounds your on your way!  I'm glad your here to hopefully share your experiences.
I see your new here, so I'll post some links that may help you get better acquainted with the site.

Things that you should read

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By	Standard Terms & Definitions	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar)	Cautionary Note
Reputation rules	News posting & quoting guidelines	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy	Membership Agreement

[Laurie]

  Hi  Ashley,

   I'm Laurie, I see that you are new here. So please let me say, Welcome To Susan's Place! Come on in and take a good look around. You are only about a month ahead of me on the HRT ride. And I am also full time for about 7 months now. It is nice to be yourself isn't it? If you have been a long time lurker then you probably know your way around so I won't give you the tour. I'm glad to see you here as a member.

Laurie
Global Moderator
Laurie@susans.org

[V M]

Hi Ashley 

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

Hugs

V M

[DawnOday]

The whole process has been incredibly positive. I went from a suicidal wreck with anxiety so bad I cold hardly leave the house and was terrified to be around people to having almost no depression at all and no anxiety. I never would have believed I could be going through transition and not be having panic attacks in public.

It was actually the treatment of others caused by the depression. I was becoming not just an ass but a total ass.I was beginning to mistreat my wife verbally. I would never raise a hand to her. But I could get pretty out of control and hurtful. When you have invested 35 years and you act like this, it is time to get some counseling.

I have been on HRT about a year and a half and the difference is profound and I would be happy just with the mental aspects. I've taken anti depressants for longer than I care to remember but they didn't seem to work. For 25 years everytime I went to the doctor, I reported being depressed until my last two times when I reported no issues. I think I am more proud of that than any of the other changes. You have a gift. The ability to make a difference and no it is not selfish. It's trying to cope with the cards we were dealt.  I wish all the best to you and your family.

[fleurgirl]

Hello!

Congratz on your transition so far. It is usually pretty-nerve wrecking and I, personally, am only JUST beginning mine. Your courage is awesome, so kudos to you!

- FleurGirl

[Kendra]

Hi Ashley, welcome to Susan's! 

You are very fortunate to have an awesome and supportive wife - along with friends and family.  Sounds like you have a solid plan for your future and are truly enjoying life.  Really glad you're here!

Kendra

[JulieAllana]

Hi Ashley,
   I am super happy that things are working out for you and that you feel comfortable with yourself!  That is what I am coming to see as this whole thing is all about. 

        Happy posting,
                           Julie