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Just An Update


Guest Michele H

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Guest Michele H

It's been awhile since I have had the time to read let alone post, so here is what is going on in my life and some observations. I've been on the patch for 6 months now (Vivelle.dot) but it is no longer in formulary so will be starting a generic version when my present supply runs out. Estrodril levels are now in the mid normal female range but would like to see it higher. Some breast development ( I even built a measuring device to detect even small changes) At 63 apparently I still haven't learned patience! Starting Progesterone this week so will see how that goes. End of this month, I fly out to SanFran to see Dr. O for FFS surgery. Haven't made up my mind yet but want to see what he has to say. In early August, I see Dr. McGinn again to see what she has to say, I am presently in the process of going through a number of tests prior to having some repair work done from damage that resulted from a gang rape. That work has to be done prior to bottom surgery.

On the 14th of April, my name was legally changed to Michelle Pauline Hoffman. In the decree, the judge also directed the DMV to change the sex marker to "F". It was one of the happiest days of my life. Unfortunetly, my daughter did not attend - she was supposed to have been one of my witnesses. She had been very supportive, but I think, with the name change, she finally understood that they daddy she knew is going away and that a new relationship needs to be established. I am happy to report that things are much better now but I wish she had been part of the ceremony and the dinner that followed.

I have lived in my real gender full time now for a year and with the name change, it was officially recognized at work. The HR department really didn't know what to do but really wanted to make sure it worked out for me. When I came back the next day after my name change, there was a potted plant on my desk and I received several very nice emails. (A letter anouncing my name change went out the day I went to court). Effective that day, I began to 'Officially' use the woman's rest rooms. The company and most of the employees have been very gracious and accepting - with the exception of one senior director who has been causing me some problems.

Mostly I am working on building a new life for Michelle - things like self image, making new friends - all the things that take a beating when you live a lie for so many years. I'm a very conceptual person so I created a diagram that looks at relationships in terms of pre, during or post transition, by knwoldge of trans status and then put the people who support me on that grid - The relationship you have with those who knew you before transition is fundamentally different than those you meet on the journey or those who are not aware that you transitioned or are transitioning. I focus to add more people to that quadrant labeled "Met me during transition but only know me as Michelle and are not aware of the journey. I was met a number of women through some cooking and feminist 'meetup' groups but have not yet formed any friendships.

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Guest Elizabeth K

Michele

A wondeful reintroduction! And I an soooo glad I am no longer the oldest MTF here at Laura's - grin!

What a wonderous journey - yet I know it has been difficult sometimes - and it looks as though you are finally accepted as who you really are. It's an inspiration to me, so I know others will read and take heart.

Thank you for sharing! Do stay around for a while?

Lizzy

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Guest NatalieRene

What a sweet thing to do. I love flowers. :D

I'm happy things are going so well for you and there are so few road bumps for you. I can only hope I'm as lucky.

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Guest Donna Jean

Michele, Hon.....

It's so nice to have you back....

Your life is moving ahead wonderfully and we all cheer for you!

Thank you for the update and do stick around...we could really gain a lot from your experience!

Love & Huggs

Donna Jean

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Welcome back!

It is so good to hear from you.

I'm glad that things are smoothing out for you.

Stick around, we can use another voice of experience here.

Love ya,

Sally

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