There are so many things that can go wrong during transition. I sort of overdosed reading about them, and was very apprensive as I began my own journey two years ago.
I'm in my late 50s, and as a MTF transitioner I guess I expected the worst. Instead, people have surprised me at every turn with their support and kindness.
Would anyone like to hear "what went right"? If so, I'm happy to share...
I started my journey at 35, but other than that, sounds familiar. 4 years later I wonder what I was ever worried about.
I started transitioning at 43, (Fall of 2013) and I can't believe how smooth everything has gone. With the exception of my father (who my mom divorced when I was 13 and we never had a good relationship), everyone has been super supportive. I had my name and gender changed on DL, SS, and Passport (but not birth certificate since TN will never allow my to change the gender on it.) At 3 1/2 months on HRT I went full time and pass. Voice was at first a challenge, but I've done well on that too. I still have more electrolysis (but there is not much left) and want to get SRS within 2 years, but other than that, I'm now me :)
Thank you! I don't feel so funny sharing the good stuff now. :)
Looking back, it was a huge help that I as was able to get on HRT quickly. I started transitioning in California, where "informed consent" is enough to get you started.
I happened to read Jennygirl's post (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,136547.msg1096372.html#msg1096372) about her endo, got all excited and made an appointment, signed the consent forms, and floated home with a brand-new implant.
That experience gave me confidence right at the beginning of the transition, which made it easier to tackle all of the remaining steps...
Transition has gone well for me too..started at 47 (now 50), had lots of laser, hormones have been very kind to me (in spite of my worries/anxieties LOL). Breasts, no body hair, noticeable face changes, unleashing my girl-mind, and will have SRS later this year (thank you, state ins commish)....
Job is 100% accepting and supportive, met a woman and her family who are 100% supportive, ex is in the friend zone but is very happy for me, 1 of 3 kids have totally come around (other two are inching their way as they realize that except for the male persona, I am the same person...same goofy sense of humor, caring, and sensitive to my loved ones needs.
Life. Is. Good.
:)
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 30, 2015, 09:22:36 AM
Transition has gone well for me too..started at 47 (now 50), had lots of laser, hormones have been very kind to me (in spite of my worries/anxieties LOL). Breasts, no body hair, noticeable face changes, unleashing my girl-mind, and will have SRS later this year (thank you, state ins commish)....
Job is 100% accepting and supportive, met a woman and her family who are 100% supportive, ex is in the friend zone but is very happy for me, 1 of 3 kids have totally come around (other two are inching their way as they realize that except for the male persona, I am the same person...same goofy sense of humor, caring, and sensitive to my loved ones needs.
Life. Is. Good.
:)
OMG that is great! I'm happy for you, especially on the relationships.
I had a similar experience - family and friends are totally supportive (even protective). And coming out at work was amazing, with full support from HR and a number of people being openly encouraging.
I find myself actually looking forward to the first person who gets ugly with me. What a difference from two years ago.