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My child was in great anguish

It has been three months since my 15-year-old assigned male at birth child told us in a letter (two pages typed) that she was transgender. Admittedly, it took us by surprise to hear her say she wanted to live the rest of her life as a female. We did not see it coming and the memories of her obsession with construction, then superheroes, then Star Wars flashed in my mind. She had been a "happy little boy" growing up.

She sat with us while we read the letter, our eyes both watering. I stood up and hugged her, told her I loved her no matter what and that I had a lot to learn and would need time to process. She was understanding.

Since that day, I have read all I can, found a wonderful therapist for her, and joined supportive groups like PFLAG and groups I found online. I have learned a lot and have a lot to still learn. No child asks to experience gender dysphoria nor do they want to subject themselves to teasing and bullying.

Our gender-affirming therapist initially recommended that my child not undergo hormone therapy until age 18. I was happy about this as I wanted to take the process slow and like many parents, wanted to be sure we were heading in the right direction before starting with hormones.

After two months, our therapist was convinced that the dysphoria my child was experiencing was in fact so detrimental to their mental health, that she encouraged us to speak with an endocrinologist about hormones.

The therapist's encouragement to speak with an endocrinologist came from her understanding that my child was in great anguish. As the therapist shared some of the thoughts and experiences that my daughter shared with her, I came on board with her recommendation.

The experienced endocrinologist listened to my concerns and assured me that the percentage of transgender teens who regret taking hormones before age 18 was extremely low. She agreed to start her on a very low dose. My daughter was so happy on the drive home and that alone helped me to feel I had made the right decision.

She has been happier ever since meeting with the endocrinologist, knowing that we are all moving forward and supporting her to feel comfortable in her skin. I will continue to do whatever it takes to support her on her journey.

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