Hi. My name is Stephanie Garrett. I live in San Francisco. And I'm glad I live here. But I've run into some problems. I don't feel welcomed by the trans community here. I have attended many different transgender groups, and, unfortuantly I feel like an outsider every time. That discouraging. I know I haven't been so much of a bitch to deserve this ostracism. But, still, I may be wrong. Anyway, to be honest, it's very hard to go thru transitioning alone. You see not only am I transitioning, but I have acquired a most devastating complication because I have hiv. Presently I am in a wheelchair. So, in my mind, the reason I've yet to make friends is because I am new to the community and don't know how to act or talk. I hope I'm not being overbearing, but I really need to have a dialogue with someone. I have a big surgery coming up on June 27th. THat's when I get my ta-ta's;). I am so looking forward to that. But right now, I feel very alone. And that's not good going into the first of my two surgeries. So, I wish everyone a great day. Thanks. Cheers!!!
I'm sure there are many here, myself included, who would be happy to start a dialogue with you. You're welcome to post here or even PM me if that makes you more comfortable.
I know for sure that I've had that same lonely feeling more than once. A lot of that not belonging feeling can sometimes be just in your head too. I struggled with that quite a bit when I first started frequenting the LGBT resource center at my college. I often felt like I didn't belong, or I was invading a space that wasn't mine to occupy, but I kept going anyway, and eventually realized that was all untrue. Now I have a lot of friends there, and the support is vital. I don't know that your situation is similar, but if by chance it is, maybe try giving it a few more chances :)
Edit: I almost forgot, congratulations on your surgery :D
Thanks for the kind, reassuring and motivating words. I think, like you said, a lot of my problems start in my head. But as a Texas gal, the whole California thing was kinda overwhelming to me. Then after spending 2 years in a hospital, where I began my transition and emerging as a completely different person-- a transgender woman in a wheelchair. But I will overcome. And Felicity, thank you so much for reaching out. You've lifted my spirits. But now I gotta to sleep. I'm still recuperating from breaking my femur. Oh well, such is life:) I hope we can become friends. You're a really empathic person. Take care and much love, Steph
That is quite a bit to deal with in such a short time.
I'm glad I was able to at least make you feel a little better. And I'm always happy to make new friends :) Hope you have a good night.
Felicity