An introduction. I am 70 years old and have struggled with my dysphoria all my life. I've been in therapy off and on since the age of 19. Most of the therapists were quite judgmental making me feel even more guilt. I've been married for nearly 50 years to a wonderful woman who has struggled along with me. We have two adult children neither of whom knew I was trans until last night.
Twenty-five years ago I found a therapist who was sympathetic to my situation, and I have been on hormones for the past 20 years. I have a B cup, no body hair, and, I think, a milder disposition. I dress privately but, for professional reasons and lack of courage have never socially transitioned. I still feel quite alone.
Last May, my former endocrinologist reduced my dosages dramatically, and I went into a tailspin, seriously contemplating suicide. I got a new endocrinologist and with the counseling of my old therapist and a new one have decided to have GRS. It's scheduled for May. I am very excited!
I told my kids and my daughter-in-law last night, and they were awesome! Without skipping a beat, they expressed their unconditional love. They cried with me and showed unbelievable kindness to my wife and me.
I know I'm an oddity in this group. I'm medically transitioning but, unlike most of you, have not — at least up to this point — had the courage to socially transition. I'd like to commiserate if there's anyone else here in a similar position.
Thanks so much for this protected space.
Hi Stefanie
I'm Laurie I see that you are new here. So please let me say, Welcome To Susan's Place! Come on in and take a good look around. I'll add some links and information below that can help you get more out of our site. Please take time to become familiar with them especially the RED one as we are always getting questions that are answered there.
Laurie
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Laurie@susans.org
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Welcome to Susan's Place. I am only a little younger than you but I have had a much different past as I transitioned years ago. I can help you with your question as I have accumulated a few links on the subject. I also know a few other members that might be checking in who are living much like you and have done so for several years. If there is anything I can help you with, just let me know.
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,130268.0.html
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,218060.0.html
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,209589.0.html
https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,207785.0.html
Welcome Stefanie. There are a lot of us that didn't get on hrt till middle age. I'm one of them. I am attempting social transition though. My work and home life are ideal for that right now. I'm impressed you are doing bottom surgery too. Susan's is a safe place with friendly people. I look forward to seeing your posts!
Bari Jo
Congratulations on doing what is important for you! I'm happy that your family is being awesome!
Welcome stefanie.... just to let yu know.... im a late bloomer too....
Quote from: Stefanie on November 25, 2017, 08:17:52 PM
I know I'm an oddity in this group. I'm medically transitioning but, unlike most of you, have not — at least up to this point — had the courage to socially transition. I'd like to commiserate if there's anyone else here in a similar position.
There's no single right way to be trans. You do you.
Welcome to Susan's.
Welcome, Stefanie. There are many roads to happiness. Yours is right for you. I am happy for you that your family is supportive.
I am another late bloomer. I am transitioning at age 63. I transitioned socially seven months ago, and am in the process of getting set up for surgery hopefully next year.
Hi Stefanie. Your story is inspiring.
Stefanie,
Your kids sound awesome. I think they realize that your happiness is more important than their discomfort or confusion.
Good luck on the GCS.
- Denise
PS I started HRT transition a year ago at the age of 54. It's wonderful, isn't it? No voices, no more what-ifs.
Sent from my LG-H910 using Tapatalk
Hi Again Stefanie,
I started a lot later than you having less than a year on HRT. I will have 1 year on the 4th of December and I am now 65. So you have a big jump on me in that respect. I'm about a month behind Kathy in going full time I'm at about 6 months having started last June. Having GRS this late in life is not unheard of at all and one of our older members just had the surgery done a couple months ago. Tia Anne can tell you about it herself if she chooses to do so. As for myself? Well I just don't know. I'm dealing with a few other things right now that has me on hold for now.
I'm glad you found us and hope you find all you need for support here.
Hugs,
Laurie
Thanks so much to all of you who have responded! As you know, this can be mighty lonely, and your replies helped a lot. I hope I can get to know some of you better through this site. I need the support and hopefully some day I can assist others.
Much love,
Stef