Hello everybody. I'm a 37yo transwoman from eastern shore Maryland. I'm a long time lurker, but never made an account. This site was one of the first I remember visiting when I discovered that I'm trans, back in 2002. I spent years doing the research everything trans and then bury and repress cycle. Until my mental health declined to the point where I cracked and was forced to get help.
I guess I'm mid transition? I've been in therapy for about 2 years and have been on HRT for 14 months. I'm openly trans and out 100%. I've had a legal name change and been doing LHR on the face for close to a year. Just recently did a surgical consult for SRS.
The whole process has been incredibly positive. I went from a suicidal wreck with anxiety so bad I cold hardly leave the house and was terrified to be around people to having almost no depression at all and no anxiety. I never would have believed I could be going through transition and not be having panic attacks in public.
Coming out was a significant turning point. I've been incredibly fortunate to have a very supportive wife and also not lose any friends or family. I haven't been treated poorly by anybody. I suppose it will happen someday, but I doubt it will have any effect on me. I'm too comfortable now, I actually feel like a real person for once.
That's it for my into. I hope my time here will have a positive impact.
Hi Ashley 🙋♀️ Welcome to Susan's, I'm Jessica! It sounds your on your way! I'm glad your here to hopefully share your experiences.
I see your new here, so I'll post some links that may help you get better acquainted with the site.
Things that you should read
Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,2.0.html) | Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,54369.0.html) | Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,114.0.html.) | Cautionary Note (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,82221.0.html) |
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Hi Ashley,
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. You are only about a month ahead of me on the HRT ride. And I am also full time for about 7 months now. It is nice to be yourself isn't it? If you have been a long time lurker then you probably know your way around so I won't give you the tour. I'm glad to see you here as a member.
Laurie
Global Moderator
Laurie@susans.org
Hi Ashley :icon_wave:
Welcome to Susan's Place :) Glad to have you here, join on in the fun
Hugs
V M
QuoteThe whole process has been incredibly positive. I went from a suicidal wreck with anxiety so bad I cold hardly leave the house and was terrified to be around people to having almost no depression at all and no anxiety. I never would have believed I could be going through transition and not be having panic attacks in public.
It was actually the treatment of others caused by the depression. I was becoming not just an ass but a total ass.I was beginning to mistreat my wife verbally. I would never raise a hand to her. But I could get pretty out of control and hurtful. When you have invested 35 years and you act like this, it is time to get some counseling.I have been on HRT about a year and a half and the difference is profound and I would be happy just with the mental aspects. I've taken anti depressants for longer than I care to remember but they didn't seem to work. For 25 years everytime I went to the doctor, I reported being depressed until my last two times when I reported no issues. I think I am more proud of that than any of the other changes. You have a gift. The ability to make a difference and no it is not selfish. It's trying to cope with the cards we were dealt. I wish all the best to you and your family.
Hello!
Congratz on your transition so far. It is usually pretty-nerve wrecking and I, personally, am only JUST beginning mine. Your courage is awesome, so kudos to you!
- FleurGirl
Hi Ashley, welcome to Susan's!
You are very fortunate to have an awesome and supportive wife - along with friends and family. Sounds like you have a solid plan for your future and are truly enjoying life. Really glad you're here!
Kendra
Hi Ashley,
I am super happy that things are working out for you and that you feel comfortable with yourself! That is what I am coming to see as this whole thing is all about.
Happy posting,
Julie