I wanted to post this the other night, but after how hectic this week was I just haven't gotten around to it. Things have been happening pretty (awesomely) quickly for me: my (first) binder got here on Tuesday (and I'm slowly getting more comfortable with how it shapes my body/fits me), and on Wednesday night we went to the Cleveland Pride Clinic.
I know a few people here are from Ohio, so I did want to comment specifically about that. First of all, if you're wanting an appointment - make one EARLY. I originally called and got an appointment for October (called last week) - it was only by luck that I got in this last Wednesday, since the person who had called after I had was cancelling their appointment. The clinic itself was in a smaller building than I expected, but actually fairly easy to find, and parking out on the side lot was close. Most importantly, the appointment: super short wait to get in, and everyone as incredibly friendly and professional. Once I got in I waited a bit before doing my history with one of their med student interns (or whatever you call it), and then another bit of a wait before the doctor came in to talk to me.
I don't want to go through the entire experience, but I will say this: it was the most positive, most affirming experience I have ever had with a doctor (and I'm 31). From the start he used the right pronoun with me, used the preferred name I'd filled in on their sheet when signing in, and mostly so did everyone else. I think the experience is probably slightly different for people who are younger, but he was incredibly respectful since I came in knowing what I wanted and what my plan was. He also had a bunch of information about doctors in the area who worked with trans guys. The weirdest/most awesome moment was when he turned around at his computer and asked me what my "real name" was - I was a little put off, so I said "My legal name? Right now it's XX" and he said no no, your REAL name, the one you're going by. Wife was with me and was stunned as well (in a good way). Overall I was there for about four hours between the meeting, getting blood drawn, an all the info, but it was absolutely worth it.
I know some guys have wondered about Medicare/Medicaid covering stuff - both my appointment and the prescriptions I got were 100% covered at my local (mom and pop) pharmacy in town, including syringes (the only expense I had was alcohol wipes). So... yeah, awesome experience, first T shot down, and the world is already looking SO much brighter (and hey bonus, it feels like my energy is way up). If anyone has Q's about the Pride Clinic (or about a good pharmacy in NW Ohio), feel free to message me - I'm happy to share info!
