Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Greetings,

It was suggested by Sarah B. that I start a blog to track my journey of before, during and after GRS.

I've compiled what I've already posted to keep it together. Let's see where it leads.


On 1 August 2026, I will begin one of the most important journeys of my life. I will travel to Bangkok, Thailand to undergo gender reassignment surgery at the Preecha Aesthetic Institute under the care of Dr Sutin. My surgery is scheduled for 6 August 2026.


Although this journey will take me thousands of kilometres from home, its true beginnings reach back much further. I have lived my life as a woman since I was seventeen. For more than four decades, I have built a life that reflects who I have always known myself to be. I have worked, travelled, formed friendships and experienced the many joys and challenges that have shaped me into the woman I am today.


Gender reassignment surgery has been a long time coming. It was never a decision I made lightly or impulsively. I needed to know that I was emotionally ready, financially prepared and mature enough to understand the significance of what I was choosing. After many months of research, planning and communication with the surgical consultation team, I reached a point where I knew the timing was right.


Paying the deposit and securing my surgery date was a defining moment. It transformed an idea that had lived quietly in my mind for many years into something real. From that moment, I began counting down the months, then the weeks and now the days.


Before I could organise the journey itself, I needed to complete an important personal chapter. I successfully updated the name and sex descriptor on my birth certificate. This process gave me a sense of freedom and closure after carrying the burden of outdated documents for almost forty years.


Receiving my new Australian passport was another deeply meaningful milestone. For the first time, I could prepare for international travel with identification that accurately reflected who I am. Holding that passport in my hands made the journey feel even more real. It represented more than permission to travel. It represented recognition, dignity and the completion of a long administrative process that had once seemed overwhelming.


With my documents complete, I was able to finalise my flights and accommodation. The consultation team in Bangkok has organised a clear, concise schedule covering my appointments, assessments, surgery and recovery. They have also arranged transport from the airport, to my consultations, to the hospital and later to my accommodation after I am discharged. Knowing these details have been carefully planned gives me peace of mind. It means I can focus on my health and recovery rather than worrying about navigating an unfamiliar city during such an important time.


My preparation has also involved a series of medical tests. I have completed blood tests, a urinalysis, an electrocardiogram and a chest X-ray. A requirement because I am over 45 (I'm now 59), these checks are required to confirm that I am medically able to cope with the procedure and anaesthetic.


My regular doctor is away on maternity leave so I met with another doctor named Dr Emma. She was kind, respectful and genuinely interested in helping me. There was no judgement or disapproval when I explained that I was preparing for gender reassignment surgery. She simply asked what I needed and did everything she could to assist me. Her warmth and professionalism reminded me how important compassionate medical care can be.


I received my electrocardiogram result immediately and it was completely normal. That news brought a great sense of relief. The remaining results were then prepared to be sent to the surgical team in Bangkok.


My hormone treatment is also part of my preparation. After many years of taking oral hormones and injections, my doctor changed me to Sandrena oestrogen gel. The purpose of this change was to prevent any damage to the live and kidneys as everything that is ingested goes via these organs. I apply it to the tops of my thighs and have experienced no problems with it. In preparation for surgery, I will stop my hormone treatment two weeks beforehand and restart it according to the surgeon's instructions, usually around seven days after the procedure.


There are many smaller practical matters to organise as well. I need to prepare my luggage, complete my travel documents, arrange mobile phone connectivity and make sure I have a suitable universal power adaptor. I also need to complete the Thai Digital Arrival Card before entering Thailand. I've been following a vlogger on You Tube who does regular updates on Thai visa requirements, changes and lifestyle. Very informative that helps keep me on track and prevent any mishaps entering and leaving country amongst other things.


I do not plan to pack heavily. August will be hot and humid in Bangkok so I will take loose, comfortable clothing that will be suitable for the hospital and my recovery. Sarongs will probably become an essential part of my wardrobe. I also plan to purchase some of the things I need after I arrive, as many everyday items such as toiletries and sanitary pads/napkins etc, are affordable in Bangkok.


Before surgery, I will have several appointments, the main one being the surgery consultation, 2 x psychiatric assessments which will determine suitability, more blood tests and cardiogram. I have no concerns about these assessments and tests. I have lived my life openly as a woman for more than forty years and I know that I am ready for this final stage of my transition.


I am excited about arriving in Bangkok a few days before my surgery. I hope to explore some of the city, visit temples, see the cultural landmarks and experience the food and atmosphere. I know that I will not be able to do very much after the operation so those first few days will be my opportunity to enjoy some sightseeing before my focus turns completely towards surgery and recovery.


I am realistic about the recovery process. I know there will be discomfort, limitations and moments when I will need patience. I understand the importance of following the surgeon's instructions, taking the time to heal and remaining committed to my dilation schedule. I am not placing unrealistic expectations on myself. Every person heals differently and I will allow my body the time it needs.


I am not frightened by the operation itself. I know I will be asleep while the surgeon perform the procedure and I have confidence in the research I have completed. I have spent years studying the surgeons, the techniques, the facilities and the experiences of other patients. Knowledge has given me reassurance and clarity.


Of course, this is still uncharted territory for me. I like to understand every detail and make sure I have considered every possibility. Some people have advised me not to overthink the experience but this is a life-changing event. For me, careful planning is not a sign of fear. It is how I create a sense of security and prepare myself for what lies ahead.


One of the greatest sources of comfort will be having my dearest friend Sarah B beside me.


Sarah and I have been friends for thirty-seven years. Over those years, she has become much more than a friend. She is family, a sister and one of the people who understands me best. She will travel with me, support me through my appointments and help care for me during my recovery.


Knowing Sarah will be there means more to me than I can fully express. There will be times when I am tired, uncomfortable or emotionally vulnerable. Having someone I trust completely will give me the support and reassurance I need. She will be the familiar face in an unfamiliar place and her presence will make the journey feel less daunting.


I am forever grateful that she has chosen to share this experience with me. A friendship lasting thirty-seven years carries a lifetime of memories, laughter, challenges and understanding. To have that friendship beside me during such a significant moment is a gift I will never take for granted.


This journey is not simply about travelling to Thailand or undergoing a surgical procedure. It is about completing a chapter that began when I was very young. It is about bringing my physical self into greater alignment with the woman I have always been.


I have reached this point through determination, research, patience and resilience. I have also reached it because of the people who have supported me along the way.


As the surgery date approaches, I feel excited, calm and ready. I know there will be challenges during recovery but I also know why I am doing this. This is my decision, my body and my future.


On 1 August, Sarah and I will board the flight to Bangkok. We will carry luggage, travel documents and carefully prepared plans but I will also carry something far more meaningful. I will carry the experiences of the woman I have been, the hopes of the woman I am becoming and the knowledge that I am finally completing a journey that has taken a lifetime.


This is not the beginning of who I am.


It is the final step towards fully honouring who I have always been.

Stay tuned for more...

  @VictoriasSecret
Everyone here on the Forum is wishing for your success and happiness.

You could not have found a better woman to be with you before, during and after your Surgery.
@Sarah B is a kind and knowledgeable woman who has traveled the
path that you are about to take.  She will be of great assistance to you physically and mentally.

HUGS and Love from your Forum friends. ❤️
Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
The Forum Administrator    Email: alaskadanielle@yahoo.com

@Northern Star Girl.

Hey Danielle

Thank you for your lovely words and support.

It's very much appreciated.

Big hugs. xx

Thank you for sharing Victoria. What a wonderful thing it must be to have had a friend for so long and be willing to go on the trip of a lifetime with you.

I wish you all the best.

(I assume you are an Aussie girl)

Hey @Petunia,

Thank you for your well wishes.

Yes, I am an Aussies girl ☺️

Currently residing in Tasmania but thinking of relocating to back to Brisbane late 26 early 27. This will heavily depend on role transfers with the current company I work for or other full time work.

Hi Victoria

You mentioned in your first blog post:

"

Quote from: VictoriasSecret on July 17, 2026, 08:17:29 PMIt was suggested by Sarah B. that I start a blog to track my journey of before, during and after GRS.

Well, that is not exactly correct and as you know me, I am going to correct you.

Yes, I suggested that you write a blog about yourself, either directly or indirectly, during several of our conversations.  All right, perhaps it was only a couple of conversations, but I have been mentioning it for the past seven months.  Still, let us not split hairs over the details.

Do you ever listen to me?  Apparently not, and only when it suits you.

While we were discussing the idea, I suggested several times that the blog should be called Victoria's Journey.  After all, you still have your whole story to tell, preferably in minute detail, so that others can get to know you better and benefit from your accumulated wisdom.

I do have to question that "wisdom" part after you suggested changing the title to Queen Victoria's Blog.  Me face palm.

There are 3 things I'm going to annoy you with in the coming days and of course I will also annoy you about them in our future conversations, before I get serious with this post.

1) Your dislike of Promite.
2) Bangkok  is sinking.
3) Pronunciation of words like you say "tuh-MAH-toh" (British Dialect) and I say
"tuh-MAY-toh" (American Dialect)

I suppose I should stop nagging and annoying you for now.  I have waited thirty-seven years for this part of your journey to happen.

I still remember the first time I saw you.  You were walking down the hallway with me following behind.  I remember thinking, "I like her." That moment remains as clear to me as if it happened yesterday.

You are a strong woman.  You are intelligent, kind, hardworking and someone who stands for no nonsense.  You also rarely miss an opportunity to give me grief.

It should be noted that we Australians tend to give the people we care about a fair amount of stick.  There are no holds barred and nobody is treated as being above anyone else, regardless of where we may be in life.  In slightly less polite language, we take the mickey out of each other.

Why would we treat our friends and family that way?  Because we love them unconditionally.

Julie, when I once referred to you as my friend, you quite rightly corrected me.  As you said so elegantly, you are my sister.  You are not simply a friend.  You are part of my family.

So yes, I am going to Thailand to support you emotionally and to provide moral support.  I am also going to annoy you as I usually do and I have no intention of stopping.  I may even run a few errands to keep you quiet although I suspect that may well be beyond my abilities.

Most importantly, I will be there to honour and support you as the woman you have always been.  I will be there to witness this long-awaited part of your journey and to see the happiness, freedom and opportunities that I hope it brings you in the years ahead and to see that happen for you as it did for me.

This is a declaration of my love for you, but definitely not in that way, so do not get any ideas.

I'm also proud to call you my sister and honoured to be beside you for this journey and I will be waiting for you on the other side.

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@VictoriasSecret

@Sarah B.

Thank you sister dear for your words of love, stick and humour.

It never gets old!!!😁😆🤣

Thanks to both of you.

It's stories like this which restores my faith in humanity

@VictoriasSecret and @Sarah B : This is just beautiful, all of it. Victoria's story is one of fulfilment and determination and then Sarah's declaration of her sisterly love.
And I get tears in my eyes when reading...
I am sending my best wishes to both of you, but specifically to Victoria.
Godspeed!

@Petunia thank you for your lovely words.

Yes, we all have to stay positive and make the most of what life gives us.

Having a sister such as Sarah, shows us the good in the world we live in.

It's taken us decades to forge that sisterhood of good, bad and ugly!!!

@Finally Anna thank you for your lovely words and well wishes.

I am very excited for this part of my journey. 😁🙏

Good luck. Hope it all goes well 🙂

Very best of British to you Victoria! It must be so exciting, scary and beautiful all at once! I would love to read of your experiences when you are able to post.

Good luck and godspeed as they say!

@Stottie Girl thank you for your well wishes.

Don't worry, I'll be posting almost daily as the trip gets closer and through the journey!!! 😁🙏

Best wishes from myself as well.

@davina61 thank you so much. 🙏

Quote from: Charlotte Kitty on July 18, 2026, 02:37:38 AMGood luck. Hope it all goes well 🙂

Sorry @Charlotte Kitty I'm sorry i forgot to respond. Thank you so much for your well wishes.🙏