Nice to meet you Samantha, and dad's can be that way as most of us know all too well. As long as you are strong being you, it will all workout, and he may come around with time. I do say I struggle with my parents, especially my dad, but I have to remind myself I have been struggling with this all my life and just accepting things at 45 once and for all. So I guess I need to let him have 45 years too, which means when he hits like 117 he will probably go "Eureka, Tony is really Toni! Funny I thought that a little when I was 72, but more and more it made sense until one day, snap, crackle, POP! It all made sense."

I guess what I am saying is, good luck with dad, I think your's will come along in time, though he may need 27 years.

Now if you need unconditional support, you will find a good amount here. I know I have and it is amazing to read all the different advice and experiences you will see posted everyday. Then always followed up with words of encouragement and/or understanding.
Be good, be yourself, be good to yourself.
Sincerely