Hi Amy
Welcome to Susan's as you have already found out there are a lot people to help you overcome your current circumstances. Renate has already mentioned that taking the right amount of hormones is 'extremely important' I know only to well what happens from not taking them.
I'm 20 years post op and for several years I was not taking any hormones and as a result my health deteriorated considerably, I ended up with type II diabetes, my blood pressure went up,I put on extra weight, my skin would take a long time to heal when it got cut, I had no energy to do things. I had enough, maybe a little depressed and my libido was none existent. However, around two years ago I started taking my hormones and I was taking them at an appropriate level for me which is the normal mid range level for a female not at a level for a post menoosal women. As a result all of 'conditions' I mentioned are now gone. Yes, I check occasionally my sugar and blood pressure and that have been nothing more than normal.
So long story short without a doubt you must try and do everything possible to get yourself back on hormones. I will never go off any hormones ever again, regardless of the risks of taking them, because not to take them would result in greater damage to my health.
You are right it was blackmail that was being used in regards to you getting hormones. Others have already mentioned about getting support and hopefully this will lead to you getting the hormones you need.
Sorry, that you lost the money that way, next time could your dad go to a bank and get them to transfer the money directly into your account? Also don't worry about mixing with the 'community' I have never mixed with the 'community', except briefly when I first started out. Susan's has been my only outlet for the past year and a half.
I have learned a lot and hopefully I have helped others. Just remember to ask and I'm sure there be someone who will come along and help you in anyway they can.
Look after yourself and I wish you all the best.
Warm regards
Sarah B