Susan's Place Transgender Resources

I just got finished posting this to my male facebook account which has 1200 friends...

QuoteI recently posted on Facebook that 2016 is going to be the best year of my life, and I'm about to share part of that with you. After you read this you will understand why this was one of the hardest posts on Facebook that I've ever had to make!

I am a transsexual.

I'm telling you this because I am going to be going through some changes over the course of the coming year. Bill Larson is going away, and Susan Elizabeth Larson is taking his place. Today, I instructed my attorney to file papers with the courts for my name to be legally changed from William to Susan.

I want to make it clear to everyone, that I am the exact same person today, as I was yesterday before you were introduced to the real me! I am simply able to be more open and honest with you all. My immediate family, close friends, and coworkers have known for years.

If you are interested in learning more about transsexualism read the following page on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transsexual, and to understand the science behind it I would recommend: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Causes_of_transsexualism

Please allow me share a little personal history with you, this isn't something that I just suddenly decided to do on a whim.

From my earliest memories, I have always felt a sense of wrongness about myself, my body, and how others interacted with me. I had no name for it, but I felt it nonetheless. As I grew older I realized what it was, and that others did not feel the same way that I did. I was being raised as a boy, but I knew with all my heart that I wasn't.

As a child I played dress-up with my sisters and I loved it! However, I was smart enough not to tell them, or anyone else about why or how much I liked it. Don't get me wrong here. It wasn't a feeling of sexual excitement. For me it was a feeling of at last becoming a girl, however superficially.

I can't begin to tell you how hard something like that is to grow up with. I turned first to religion, praying to God and asking for him to make this right. My prayer was simple, make me what my heart mind and soul were screaming to me that I was a girl. When that didn't work, I started praying for God to let me die. Something that I have done every time I prayed for the last 20 plus years, and something that I will no longer do!

As a teenager I was angry and sullen. My sense of wrongness with my body deepened with puberty. The changes horrified me. The body hair that sprouted from my arms and the peach fuzz on my face was a deepening difference between myself, and the girl that I knew I was inside. Girls just didn't have facial hair. I took up shaving to get rid of it; which is something I deeply detest doing now. My facial hair wouldn't be a nearly as bad if I hadn't done so. My voice changing was sickening to me. Losing the sweet girlish sounding voice I had as a child sent me into deep despair.

By this time, I knew what I was. When I watched the Christine Jorgensen Story on TV, I immediately knew what my goal in life would be, to transition totally from male to female. I have not wavered from this goal ever since. Suddenly the world opened up for me. Something could be done about the condition I have lived with since my birth. The problem was however that I lacked the funds to do so.

I dug for every bit of information I could find about people like me. I called bulletin boards (this was before the internet) dedicated to the topic, and devoured every piece of scientific research I could find on the subject.

As a young adult I came out of the closet for the first time, after two of my female coworkers (who suspected the truth) got me drunk one night after work, and then asked me repeatedly about it. They wore me down until I finally admitted it to the first people other than myself.

Telling someone that you are transgender is one of the hardest things that a transgender person has to do. Before you tell them it feels as if you are carrying a bowling ball in the pit of your stomach. After you tell them, and they accept you it's like being on an emotional rocket ship to the moon. I have always followed the motto prepare for the worst, and hope for the best."

I told my mom shortly after coming out to them. She told me while she didn't like it, she understood. You see she knew then that she was losing her only son. She told me that before my birth the doctor had told her that based on fetal size, positioning, and heart rate that she was going to have another baby girl. She also told me that she believed that my birth father was transgender. That was something I had not known until that point. We never really discussed it again. I subsequently came out to my sisters and co-workers. All of whom were accepting.

In late 1995 when I was 24 years old, I started up "Susan's Place Transgender Resources," a peer support website for transgender individuals. It is intended as a safe space where transgender people can provide assistance to one another, it has the additional mission of educating the public. I have run it ever since.

It is now the world's largest transgender website. Around 250,000 people a month visit it accounting for 7 million pageviews a month. To give you some idea of the sheer size I have a staff of 80 volunteers who make it possible to run it, and in 2015 2.7 million people visited the Susan's Place website, accounting for just shy of 100 million page views.

It has saved the lives of thousands of people around the world over the last 20 years. I have received messages of gratitude from several hundred people directly. And for every thank you that is received, there are hundreds more whom you have helped who do not send one. I would estimate that 90% of the world's transgender community has passed through my web site at one time or another.

In my late 20s I started therapy with a renowned gender therapist by the name of Gianna Israel. Gianna diagnosed me officially as a transsexual. She literally wrote the book on the topic with Donald E. Tarver. Their book has educated many doctors on the subject.

With her help, I was able to begin hormone replacement therapy, replacing the male hormones that flooded my body with female hormones resulting in a massive mental improvement, and the development of some secondary female characteristics including breasts.

A few years later due to a worsening economic situation I had to stop taking the hormones and put my transition on hold.

On Christmas day, my sister and niece gave me gifts that made it perfectly clear that they support me, and I guess that's what I have been waiting for. I decided it's time to move my transition forward again.

Going forward

I have already switched my wardrobe from male to female. In reality I did it years ago, but dressed androgynously (neither overtly male nor female). However, as many of you know I almost always wore a men's coat even in the heat of summer. It was as a psychological shield between my true self, and everyone else.

Let me make it clear that I will no longer be doing so. I am Susan 100%.

I am getting my name legally changed, So I ask that everyone please either use female pronouns (she, her, hers, herself), or if that distresses you for whatever reason gender neutral pronouns (they, them, their, theirs, themselves) are also acceptable.

I will occasionally have to use the restroom when out in public. Let me make it clear that I will not be using a men's room since my presentation is female. I keep a letter from my therapist that I keep in my car's glove box, and will be happy to let you read it upon request. I will only be in the restroom to use the facilities, or to check my face; the same as any other woman! I am not there to ogle anyone, and I hope that others will return the favor!

I plan on having my gender confirmation surgery (sex reassignment surgery) at some point in the near future.

Let me make this perfectly clear, this is not something that I have chosen! Trust me, there was never any choice in the matter! I fought it as hard as I could for many years, even enlisting in the military figuring that would beat it out of me. It didn't work!

It is only since I have accepted what and who I am, and all which that entails; that the spiritual turmoil that I experienced while fighting it went away. I truly believe that this is the path that I was intended to follow in life. Either way I have faith that God will understand and support my course of action in life.

I am sure most of my friends will accept me for who I am, and I thank you in advance for your understanding! For everyone else I would certainly appreciate your support on my journey. For those who can't or won't, I will not hold it against you, and wish you well in life!

Thank you!
Susan Elizabeth Larson

Big hug! Just like I tell everyone else: All the little steps add up to get you where you're going .....boss!  ;D

Hugs, Devlyn

congrats, cookies in the break room.

 :eusa_clap:

Congrats and wishing you the best as you go forward.

Hugs,

Traci

1 hour in.... I abbreviated the last names for their privacy.

Maurice V., Angela T., Gabriela D. and 22 others like this.

Gina G.
I hope you have a smooth transition, Susan. Be strong!

Gail G.
Susan, I wish you every blessing God has to offer as you become who you were meant to be! You go, girl!

Paula P.
Thank you for your courage and honesty-I wish you great happiness! May people be as kind and supportive to you as you have been to others!

Stuart B.
Blessings to you, Susan.

Ben M.
Congrats and best wishes during your transition!

Whitney G.
I already had such great respect for you, but today it's reached a new high. Thank you for sharing your journey. You're beautiful. Congrats!

Thomya J.
Love u Susan!! Do u girl and screw the rest!!

Bryce C.
Nice to meet you, Susan! :) happy for you!

Lois J.
Susan, the core of who you are, was, has been, and always will be the same...a loving, kind, human being who is a great friend. I am proud of you for sharing your truth and hope that all who already love you will be there in support. Susan Elizabeth Larson, welcome to the light...

Pamela A.
You rock!

Patricia H.
Very brave and strong woman you are Susan! No one can judge us except for God, and I believe all things happen for a reason. You are doing the right thing. God bless you and good luck!

Janese C.
Susan rock on we all have journeys that we face in this life. Your true friends well stand with you no matter what. Stand strong and proud and God will handle those that don't understand or support you. Your friend Janese

Angela T.
Congratulations, Susan! Your openness is amazing! Thanks for sharing your perspective and answering so many questions. I know it can only help you in the future, but I am glad to share the info to thwart the spread of ignorance and intolerance.

Maurice V.
Same heart, always my friend

Fantastic letter, Susan and such heartwarming responses.  I have my letter pretty much ready to go out to family and was going to send it at the end of January.  However my wife and her siblings are having a weekend get together for just them at the end of February so I'm postponing the letter.  I want them to be able to enjoy a reunion without the subject of me being the elephant in the room.  So now it looks like early March for my letter to go out.

Congratulations!  I came out at work in November and later that same day on Facebook and everywhere else as well.  It's been a wonderful experience for me and from the looks of it for you too! 

The level of acceptance I have gotten was way beyond my wildest dreams and I'm grateful for that every single day.  I'm so glad you're experiencing the same!

Welcome to freedom!  :)

Wow what a big step! Congrats!  :icon_joy:

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2016, 12:24:52 PM
I just got done posting this to my male facebook which has 1200 friends...

"...
In late 1995 when I was 24 years old, I started up "Susan's Place Transgender Resources," a peer support website for transgender individuals. It is intended as a safe space where transgender people can provide assistance to one another, it has the additional mission of educating the public. I have run it ever since...."

Wow - I had no idea this site has been here for 20+ years!  In my short time here I have been touched by others and amazed at how will Susan's Place indeed succeeds in making this a safe place for us to share from our lives and our hearts.

Thanks Susan for sharing a very positive letter - and I am encouraged to hear of all the positive responses you have received!

Love,
Denali

2 hours in. Last names abbreviated for their privacy...

Lindsay N., Emma L., Jaime T. and 34 others like this.

Aurelia M.
Best of luck on your journey into becoming the woman you know you are.

Kim W.
Same person to me, do what makes u happy

Philip G.
Goodbye, Bill; hello, Susan. Be happy.

Melanie T.
Welcome Susan!

Samantha H.
Best wishes and looking forward to getting to know the real you Susan!

Tina B.
Goodbye Bill and welcome Susan. Congratulations on FINALLY living your truth. I have suspected since I first met you photographing one of my events. You say that you are still the same you, but you won't be. You will be much happier, secure and confident in being true to yourself. Remain strong during the transition and never stop being true to yourself!!!

Joann L.
I'm happy for you Susan. It has been on my to do list to catch up on things with you; looking forward to doing lunch with you soon.

Melinda K.
Loved you then....love Susan as well! Much happiness to you and your newfound freedom!

Emma L.
Congratulations Susan!! I am so happy for you. You have already done so much for our community. You are one of my heroines in so many ways. Congratulations !!!!!!

Lovely responses!
Congrats Hon !

I know it has taken you a very long time to get to this place. Good for you!

Cindi

This is clearly a big day for you Susan.

Small point: Gianna Israel, from whom you received your letter, died in 2006. I would think it prudent to consider getting a new letter of confirmation in the near future.

Quote from: cathyrains on January 04, 2016, 02:54:20 PM
This is clearly a big day for you Susan.

Small point: Gianna Israel, from whom you received your letter, died in 2006. I would think it prudent to consider getting a new letter of confirmation in the near future.

I will but it will be a surgery letter. She may have since died, but her diagnosis is still 100% valid.

Dear Susan. That's a wonderful letter. I'm not on facebook but if I was I'd say "Be who you really are".

Oh, thank you for this WONDERFUL site!!!

Love,
Clare

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2016, 02:58:28 PM
I will but it will be a surgery letter. She may have since died, but her diagnosis is still 100% valid.

Of pertinence to my own situation (in my interactions with several therapists over the years) : I note that Gianna was based in San Francisco at the time you obtained your letter. Did you have to travel to San Francisco for your weekly consultation or was it done via correspondance or telephone...or other?

She provided telephone based counseling for people who did not have the resources available in their community to do it in person.

Congratulations to you Susan on leaping over another difficult hurdle in your life. And thank you for providing all of us with this incredible, and valuable resource. We all appreciate you and your work immensely. <3

A very definitive and positive announcement

I will certainly take your lead when I have to do the same at some point over the next 12 months  or so...

Best wishes


L Katy xxx

Hour 3. Last names abbreviated for their privacy.

Syl M., Nick B., Yvette R. and 50 others like this.

Steve Mulligan
Makes no matter, your mind, your heart are the same Susan.

Devlyn M.
As someone who only knows Susan and never met Bill, I will say "Thank you, Bill, for taking her so far."

Ria J.
Susan, I wish you all the best and you do know where to go if you need support. smile emoticon

Jeff B.
CONGRATS !!

Rosa P.
Thanks for sharing Susan!! Very brave!!

Blayne C.
You confided this to me early in our friendship and I have ALWAYS appreciated your honesty and trust.

I used to call you Bill, now I'll call you Susan....but I will always call you friend.

Carrie K.
Prayers for you going through this smoothly and fully supported by love and open arms all around. No one has the right to judge another's life, but everyone seems to do just that. You live your life being happy and free and exactly the person you want to be! Prayers and love to you!

Bryant H.
I admit I don't understand, but I do know we all live as best we can. Best of luck.

Teresa And Nick M.
Congrats and blessings to you Susan!

Linda B.
Love to you, Susan.

John V.
Glad to meet you at last Susan.

Nick B.
Sup Suze?!?! Pleased to meet you! Ive never actually heard a transgender tell their story, so thank you. Btw, yeah im gonna be that ass who calls you Suze.

Stacy and Paul R.
Proud for you!
Proud to call you my friend!!

 :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Susan,

Congratulations. Stay strong and I wish you a smooth journey.

With warmth,

Joanna

Congratulations.

Hugs

Jen

Congratulations Susan!   Way to own the name, the game and the rest of this Place.  I confess some surprise to understand this is your public coming out.  I just assumed you had done all that and had been out forever.  A pleasant reminder of how wrong our assumptions about another person can be.

I will add to your grateful chorus of well wishers and thank you again for your personal investment in this Place.

Congratulations Susan :) beautiful letter.  I came out publicly on facebook not too long ago myself, and it also went (in general) quite well.  All the best to you!!

Susan I am so happy for you! I'll admit to being astounded that you're only now coming out to the world, you've been the doula for the births of so many into their true selves. I don't know you, except from here, but I'm proud to say I know you even that much! It's so freeing and gratifying to come out to the world and get such responses, isn't it?

Wow Susan, I did not know that you had not been out before. I assumed that you were fully transitioned and out for many years. To run this website and do so many things for transgender people all while hiding your true self from much of the world must have been very taxing, I admire you for doing so all these years. And I am glad that you finally are able to be yourself to everyone in your life. Happy 2016!

Quote from: Saison Marguerite on January 04, 2016, 05:45:40 PM
To run this website and do so many things for transgender people all while hiding your true self from much of the world must have been very taxing, I admire you for doing so all these years.

I have to second this. I've known for some time that you were not out to everyone or living full-time. I don't know what it's been like, but I've imagined now and then what it must feel like to have helped thousands of people become their true selves while you essentially took a number and waited your turn. You're a strong woman for hanging on through all that.

It makes my heart happy to know that the wonderful gift you've given so many others will be yours as well.

Hour 5. Last names abbreviated for their privacy.

Dana B., Morgan C., Annette T. and 63 others like this.

Darren M.
Wishing all the best, Susan.

Carmila M.
What a journey! So exciting that you finally get to celebrate your true self. I love seeing people flourish. Hope to see you soon at an upcoming Bernie event, Susan!

Phyllis S.
The only two things that you can do in life is be true to yourself and do the best you can. Everything else will fall into place. A rose by any other name smells just as sweet.

Jen S.
You have not only spilled out your heart and honesty in a most informative way, you have demonstrated to us what an amazing person you are and have become over the course of your transitioning.

I would like to say it's not really a transitioning if you have felt this way forever but more like an awakening. I have a few friends that have also taken this plunge and come out so fulfilled!

What I got out of this the most was the fact you started a HUGE support base for people struggling like you have done and turned your woes into such positiveness, not only for you but for others. You website shows this. The people that you (possibly) have changed and saved are grateful, I'm sure.

Keep doing what you're doing. You deserve to be happy. :)

Cindy M.
People who love you want you to be happy. "Know your truth", and follow it. Congrats on giving yourself that freedom and "knowing your truth", as my best friend Rebecca B. would say.

Amy C.
I admire your courage. Congratulations, Susan!

Barbara W.
Special thoughts and support!!

Dana B.
You do what you have to do to make it right! This is between you and God and you!! We are just people and friend all around you that have our own opinions and always love to share them!! You have to be happy with you!! 😀

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2016, 12:24:52 PM
I just got done posting this to my male facebook which has 1200 friends...

Oh My Susan

So many years have come and gone. When I found your web site here it was a blessing for me as I have had so much help from so many people here. After reading you coming out letter I have to say I was Crying both in sad for what we have to go threw but also in happiness for what we achieve for ourselves. The hardest thing that we can ever do is coming out as Transexual as you have said. I remember the day that I came out I was so scared and almost couldn't speak. But I have to say what a big load off me weather or not they excepted me or not, all I know was I didn't have to carry that in me ever again. It was out.That is been a few years now and after I had come out I like all of us lost some friends that I thought were friends and I gained far more than I have lost. Today I'm a very happy women and I'm very proud of who I have become. If People want to ask a question than I will answer It the best that I can. I'm lucky in one way as I raised my children by myself and LOL they always gave me both Mothers day and Fathers day Cards because they said I was both all in one. Now they all call me mom and my grand children all call me Gram's so when I go up to my other home In New Hampshire they only know me as Lyndsey Marie and will never know anything more than that, I like to vanish into the woodwork when I go up there and It is such a wonderful feeling.

Happily submitted
Lyndsey Marie

Shared this with them, showing them how happy they made me. I really gotta practice smiling.

(https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=201976.0;attach=34918)

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2016, 06:32:32 PM
Shared this with them, showing them how happy they made me. I really gotta practice smiling.

(https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=201976.0;attach=34918)

Hi Susan

Think of how Happy you are now that should help you smile.
Hugs
Lyndsey

I am happy you are happy. You will experience the joy many of us have living authentically. Of course as I said - your community will be here to support you. Thanks for all you have done.

Quote from: suzifrommd on January 04, 2016, 05:51:47 PM
I have to second this. I've known for some time that you were not out to everyone or living full-time. I don't know what it's been like, but I've imagined now and then what it must feel like to have helped thousands of people become their true selves while you essentially took a number and waited your turn. You're a strong woman for hanging on through all that.

It makes my heart happy to know that the wonderful gift you've given so many others will be yours as well.

I have to echo this, as well.

I found this website when I was 17, in 2002 (I signed up much later). It was the first of anything to let me know that I was not only sane, but that I was not alone - and that there was something, a lot of somethings, that I could do for myself.

Reading your letter now, I cannot remember the last time I felt so subdued. I am very sad to know that time and self could not have been more charitable with you, Susan, but all the more so delighted to have seen them give way at last.

If there were an especially candid word - or if so, that I could simply know it - to simultaneously express best wishes and palpable thanks, I would be only too happy to write and leave it for you here.

A great pic Susan - I am very happy for you that your announcement has been so well received by those close to you.

It is a testament also to the important work you have done and continue to do in the trans community that - despite some random haters - you are so well regarded and respected. This site, and everything it offers has provided so much help to so many people - many of whom are in crisis when they join - you deserve every accolade and all the well wishes you receive. Apart from there not being much of an internet in 1991, I know I really could have used a place like this when I was 24, transitioning alone and afraid - so I know what it feels like to try and transition without a community to support you and the resources, calming words and wisdom of experience that this site brings to the users today is so invaluable.

Congratulations! :eusa_clap:

Congrats. I'm so happy for you that the announcement was well received. How special and important you are to all of us and those around you shows and it shows in the support you received. I didn't have the guts to do it the way you did myself so it's a tremendous accomplishment that you accomplished today. A beautiful picture too. Hugs
Mariah

Smiles take time. You will get used to it and before you know it you will be smiling naturally and happily. I had the same problem in my early transition pictures. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Susan on January 04, 2016, 06:32:32 PM
Shared this with them, showing them how happy they made me. I really gotta practice smiling.

(https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=201976.0;attach=34918)

Congratulations, Susan!

I must admit to being surprised.  I know that Susan's Place has been around since, like, forever, so I just assumed that you had been out for a long time.  Well, we know where assuming gets one.   :embarrassed:

I am just starting out on my journey, and I am supremely grateful for this wonderful and supportive community that you have created.  Just having a place to talk to others and read about others' experiences has been a huge help and relief to me.

I am happy for you that you have your own supportive community to stand by you.

Yay! I haven't stopped smiling reading all of your responses. So happy that it went well for you, and glad you've found so much support :D

Susan, congratulations.

To have invested so much for so long in helping others by way of this site takes a big heart and a generous spirit. To have done that for so long, all the while unable to live as your true self -- I'm speechless. You deserve every bit of the love and support you're getting, and much more. May you thrive, and have ever so much to smile about!

Quote from: Tysilio on January 04, 2016, 08:25:36 PM
Susan, congratulations.

To have invested so much for so long in helping others by way of this site takes a big heart and a generous spirit. To have done that for so long, all the while unable to live as your true self -- I'm speechless. You deserve every bit of the love and support you're getting, and much more. May you thrive, and have ever so much to smile about!

ditto

Congratulations Susan!  ;D

You have done so much for us you don't even know. You're a surrogate mother for all of us here. Thank you for giving us hope, a place to learn, to grow, and to educate each other. :)

You definitely deserve all this happiness and freedom to be yourself. From the looks of it, you have chosen your friends well, and I'm sure so many more will continue to celebrate with you.

<3
Audree

Hour 18. Last names abbreviated for their privacy.

Ilza H., Patricia H., Feleesha J. and 114 others like this.

Sandy D.
You be you!! Do you!! I say that often when "people" question others... you must be the best YOU that you can be... Kudos to you and stay happy!

Terri F.
Gorgeous! Hello Susan! I'm proud to be your friend if only on Facebook. Thank you for sharing your journey.

Sandy Edmondson
Susan, I will always like 'you" for the person you are. I believe Jesus 'imperative' to "love others as yourself" must be carried over to all people, regardless of gender identify. By the way - - I like your new profile picture.

Maan C.
So proud of you Susan! You deserve to be happy!

Alice K-F.
Wow! So happy and blown away by the courage it must have taken you to tell your story! I send love love love and HAPPINESS to you dear susan! Thank you for sharing!

Wind S.
Life is too short to not be the person in your heart. You are such a brave person for coming out like this, and I wish you much success.

Mariah S.
So happy for you. You have come so far. Congrats. Hugs smile emoticon

Melissa S.
Susan, beautifully written. Best wishes for 2016!

Jennifer A.
Be true to you dear and dont worry abut what others think...God Bless

Debbie B.
We are not to judge. I always liked your eye shadow and I think I even told you so. So glad you did not commit suicide. I only wish you were a Republican! Wishing you the best, Susan!

Dawn L-A
Hi Susan! Great to know you! So happy for you. Have a great New Year!

Christine P.
I am glad that are finally able to share the struggle this has been for you, and that now can truly be yourself. I applaud the courage it took for you to take these steps. You have a lot of support. Congratulations, Susan.

Sharon S.
Wishing you all the very best!!!

Cindy S.
I applaud your courage & am happy for your true self to emerge publicly! Congratulations, Susan.

Ashley L.
I love you Aunt Susan!!

Vicki S.
I am very happy for you. You always should follow your heart, and it took a great deal of courage to post this. Different look, but same heart, only happier! It is my pleasure to know you, Susan. Happy New Year and wishing you well through this transition. Prayers for a smooth transition and quick healing with surgery. God bless you!!

Sarah H.
I am so proud to call u my aunt Susan I am want you to know I love you and always will u are my family too

Mark O.
Be who you are, and do not care about anyone who offers criticism. It is your life to lead.

Tina B.
Wishing you all the good luck Susan, see you this summer at the Winery.

Yolanda E.
Eloquently spoken! Much love & support to Susan

Bob P.
A beautiful and courageous account of your heart and soul! I wish you nothing but the best Susan!

Debbie K.
Susan even though I don't know you that well I wish you the best. Please keep me as a friend on fb as you change your name. May you future be filled with happiness now.

Patricia H.
Good luck and good wishes on your new life being the person you want to be, Susan.

I posted this on my wall later that evening....

The people of the City of Clarksville have really and truly impressed me today! Much love to you all!

Amazing responses, I'm really happy for you :)

'grats

A well-written letter. And those responses, well.....they reinforce my faith in that there is a better tomorrow for us all.

Congratulations. This is a brave move, and a great step forward. You're an inspiration, Susan.

The name change is filed, the lawyer says I will be legally Susan probably by Friday

Incredibly GOOD for you!

At first I did not believe my eyes, I thought you came out years ago... I don't know why I had this assumption.

That is a wonderfully written letter and I am very happy for you and for the responses you got. Thank you for sharing.
After helping so many people may you have the chance to practice smiling a lot :)

Also let me thank you for the 20 years you have put into running this site!

This is totally awesome, as are you, Susan. With the support you have in your personal life, as well as online, you're certain to get through transition issues and onto your real life easily.

Congratulations Susan! I will have a extra cookie Friday  ;D
I was surprised to read that you changed it not earlier,but its a other step.
So glad for you , as you has given many a chance to learn and be happy with this website.

More smile ? No you glow on that picture  :angel: 

WOW! Never thought I'd see the day! Hooray! :icon_biggrin: :icon_joy: :eusa_clap: