This Boston Globe article about identical twins, one with male gender expression and one with female gender expression, outlines treatment options that I hope are available to everyone in the future. The article outlines how medications can be used to suppress puberty and allow family and professionals time to carefully consider the options and to explore the complex issues involved. Since puberty can be restarted at any time by simply withdrawing the medications, there are few drawbacks to this technique. If the person decides to continue, suppression of puberty reduces the amount of time, expense and pain that go into gender transition for people who have already gone through puberty.
This is one of those I wish they had that when I was young comments. The ruroesces available to today’s youth are simply amazing. The internet is a wonderful way to learn potentially important things. The really sad fact about all this though, is that what is happening on a young person’s screen in their mind is taking place many miles away. The thought becomes, how does that help me? Right here and now? The hope and prayer with me is that even though the message may be distant, it still will touch someone right here and now. In so doing it could help them lead themselves out of a dark place.When I was a youngster I didn’t have these marvelous ruroesces at my disposal. My dark wishes and subsequent attempt at 16 were a cry for help and a desire to end the torment. I am not at all surprised that some still today seek the same route. But even without the internet, I still recognized that I needed to seek help. Yes, my sexuality had a part to play in all this and I could ramble on further about that, but won’t here.p.s. I love the Seuss quote about Be who you are Bless you Jennifer, you are a really special gem. Hugs!Sarah