| By KATHLEEN HAY
Standard-Freeholder A trans-gender lifestyle is not a path one chooses. And it's a road filled with emotional and physical obstacles that, often times, seem unsurpassable. Michelle is a Cornwall man in his early thirties who will soon be under going trans-gender surgery, commonly known as a sex-change. He agreed to be interviewed on the condition that he was identified only as Michelle. Michelle said he struggled with emotional distress for many years before realizing what was causing his frustrations. Now he wants to help others who may be experiencing the same feelings. A member of Gender Mosaic, an Ottawa-based organization which provides support for trans-gender individuals and their partners, Michelle is in the process of establishing a support group in this area. "Joining Gender Mosaic made a world of difference to me," he said. "You really need someone to talk with when you cope with these emotions." Eventually, Michelle decided the best path was to proceed with surgery. It's an intense process and one which is not to be taken lightly. The decision to proceed with the operation is filled with fears of rejection from family, friends and employers. "Ever since I was six years old I felt there was something wrong, but I could never pinpoint the reason why," said Michelle. "Ironically, it was an episode of All in the Family, where they talked about Renee Richards (the tennis professional who had a sex-change) that made me realize this might explain my inner emotions." |
Many trans-gender individuals
say they are persecuted by those who, primarily through ignorance , may
subject them to criticism, insults, or violence.
Trans-gendered is a term used to describe anyone who challenges "traditional" gender roles: gay cross-dressers, straight cross-dressers, transsexuals, drag queens, transgender individuals and gender bender of all sorts. As gay men and lesbians challenge heterosexual norms by loving members of the same sex, trans-gender individuals challenge norms by wearing clothing not generally associated with their own sex. In some cases they may decide to modify their bodies to be more like those of the "other" sex. Most of Michelle's life was spent in a state of denial. Michelle even spent five years living common-law with a woman and fathered a child in a vain attempt to change his feelings. This isn't uncommon for those who are struggling with their emotional identities. Joanne Law is president of Gender Mosaic in Ottawa. Law was married for 23 years and is the father of two adult children. "I literally became the 'other woman'," she says. "I'm fortunate because my immediate family was very understanding. Even my wife, who has suspected for years, is now a friend." Law says a big misconception about trans-gender individuals is that they are gay. "Most people don't realize trans-genders are straight males," states Law. "As well, it's easier for women who are trans-gender because society allows them to dress in a more masculine manner, without any questions being asked." |
Typically transsexuals become
aware of their feelings in early childhood. The need to express their emotions
becomes more desperate as they age. Emotional repression can lead to violence
and even suicide.
Michelle confronted the problem in February 1996. After consultation with a psychiatrist, Michelle decided to pursue steps to have a sex-change. It's not a easy decision to make. Intensive testing at the Royal Ottawa Hospital and meetings with endrocrinologists first determine whether the individual will be a successful candidate. If successful, they begin hormone therapy. Michelle is now on estrogen therapy while taking a testosterone blocker. He is gradually assuming female characteristics and is undertaking electrolysis. By the end of the year, Michelle will be dressing completely as a woman. A criteria for surgery is living either while at school, or in full-time employment, in their preferred gender, for at least 12 months. Michelle has received a mixed reaction from family and select friends who know of the decision. Michelle's daughter, who is now five, hasn't been told yet, but she has her suspicions. "My daughter said to me, out of the blue,'Daddy, you'd be better off as a girl',"Said Michelle. "Kids understand a lot better than we give them credit." Anyone interested in becoming part of Michelle's support group is asked to call xxx-xxxx or contact Michelle via e-mail at michellea@oocities.com |
