A bit of an emotional day today.
This morning, I had my final appointments at the VA Clinic. My Gynecologist agreed to make sure that my meds get shipped out to me ASAP, and she agreed to send me a surgery recommendation letter. She hugged me and wished me good luck in the gold fields of Colorado. I promised to send her a postcard. She has been the most important factor in getting my hormones sorted out. My previous Endocrinologists preferred to follow outdated "established protocols," but this wonderful woman listened to what I told her. She read the studies I sent her, and she agreed to try "my way" of doing things. When all went well, she was always asking for feedback on whether this was something I would recommend for other MtF veterans in her care. She said that direct feedback from a patient on how things are working is better than some studies, and there are not enough studies being done.
Afterward, I met with my Psychologist. She hesitated when I asked for the surgery recommendation letter. She said that, from the mental health side, there are key points that she needs to address in the letter, such as who the surgeon is, what pre-op plans I have made, post-op care, etc. The problem is that I am moving back home, where I have not lived since 1981. I don't know who the surgeon might be, and I have not yet worked out all of the details. She agreed that we would stay in touch, and I can continue to send her updates. She said there is no requirement for me to be her active patient; she can still make recommendations for former patients. Since I would need two mental health letters, one can come from her and one from whoever my new mental health provider will be.
Saying goodbye was emotional, but I am ready to get moved. I will be here in SD for July 4th, and then I am gone. I will be off the internet while I disconnect here and then reconnect there. Don't panic, I will be back soon-ish.
