Postby JENNYJET » Tue Sep 23, 2014 8:16 pm
Hello, as a post-op, may I wish you the very best of luck and as easy a transition that your circumstances permit. It is going to be circumstances that dictate how you progress and at what speed. One thing should be made absolutely clear is that for you, it shall never be quick enough. For every candidate patient it is never quick enough.
In my own experience, transition was very easy relative to some very challenging medical and disability concerns and my sole human/no relatives baggage. My problems began as a post-op patient on the ward and followed me to this day.
As indicated, I have medical issues unique to me and every patient will have issues unique to themselves.
The beginning of transition has the ability to enclose one into a bubble of invincibility, it was for me as I was impervious to any negativity, but the day came when I had to submit to the authority of the Gender Identity Clinic at Charing Cross, and the long drawn out protocols they employ.
I consider CXGIC to be a fine establishment, they served me well and I have no complaints. This is because I allowed myself to be directed by those charged with my care and best interests even if I did not like it at the Time.
Drew, you asked the question and thank you but I have to respond honestly relative to my own experience. For you and others it may be trouble free but it is highly unlikely.
Transition is more than what the NHS has to offer, it is all about how you choose to handle transition because it shall be a unique journey for you as there is no written guide book. You shall need to deal with family, friends, personal documents, employers, moods, opinions and basic hostility from those that do not understand you.
As to that over drawn question of clothing, I admit at times the clothes mattered but now it matters not a jot because I have found my happy place living in a country location whereby a skirt is most unsuitable and probably unwise. I found my place and that problem dissolved unnoticed. Jeans, wellies and a waxed coat and I am recognized as female without question. The point here is that what to expect is not possible to describe generally because each patient is unique and I expect, as should you, the NHS shall do whatever it can for you and any candidate patient for Gender Reassignment.
Ooops! I have no experience of Leeds but I hope something of my essay! May be of help.
