A very interesting thread, possibly one of the best I've read in a while, glad you decided to make it, and I find your experiences quite touching.
How do you feel about the advances in science that may make it possible to correct such conditions in the womb.
And if you did want children, how would that be possible, do you still have some preserved eggs from being a woman or would you have to go through some sort of fertility program. You are aware of course that these days women can have a child even into their fifties with fertility treatment.
Have you faced any prejudice, and if so how did you deal with it?
Do you feel that the experience of losing your childhood is all bad, or that there are some real positives that make you a tougher person?
What's your legal status, male or female? I know it's kind of irrelevant, but your birth certificate and other documents do label you a man, has it caused problems.
And finally, how are you? Is it going well for you, do you have any regrets apart from the ones you already mentioned?
How do you feel about the advances in science that may make it possible to correct such conditions in the womb.
"I really am undecided about that. Would I have wanted to be born complete and not have had this hardship? Sometimes I say yes. Yet sometimes, I feel that my journey has a purpose. Would I be the same understanding, loving man that I am today? I don't know. I think our experiences make us who we are. I love who I have become. I dont think I would want scientist to mess with things, nature made it this way for a reason."
And if you did want children, how would that be possible, do you still have some preserved eggs from being a woman or would you have to go through some sort of fertility program. You are aware of course that these days women can have a child even into their fifties with fertility treatment.
"If my wife and I ever decided to have kids, we would probably adopt. There are so many kids in need of adoption. I would want to provide a good loving home for one. But right now, our schedule does not permit it. Maybe one day".
Have you faced any prejudice, and if so how did you deal with it?
"I have been very fortunate. I have not faced any prejudice. I have been welcomed with open arms by all my clients, friends, and aquitances. I think its all about attitude, and how one views oneself. I like who I am, I feel no shame or regrets in what I have done. I am complete and happy. I think that rubs off on people."
Do you feel that the experience of losing your childhood is all bad, or that there are some real positives that make you a tougher person?
" I wish I could be a young child again, and relieve those moments in my right body, especially my teenage years. It does make you a tougher person, but the hurt will never go away."
What's your legal status, male or female? I know it's kind of irrelevant, but your birth certificate and other documents do label you a man, has it caused problems.
"I am legally a man. All my papers to include my birth certificate was changed to read male. Once you have an affidavit from the surgeon and doctors, they automatically change your paper work. Well not automatically per say. You fill out forms, the red tape. Some funny looks from the clerks and stuff, but once they call tallahassee and see what the protocal is they change things for you."
And finally, how are you? Is it going well for you, do you have any regrets apart from the ones you already mentioned?[/QUOTE]
"I am very happy. My wife and I are doing great. We have been married legally going on 3 years Feb 6th 2004. Our business is doing well. I am currently working on a documentary which I hope will make it to the big screen regarding transsexualism and gender identity. I want to set up seminars and conferences to help educate people. There are many of us out there lost and afraid. Very few people know the truth about transsexuals. I feel people really want to learn. "
No regrets, except wanting to turn back time.
Mark Angelo
