As the mother of an 18-year-old transgender woman, I have witnessed a marked and deeply distressing shift in attitudes towards the trans community since she came out to me five years ago.
She was just 16 when the puberty blockers ban was introduced. I remember that day vividly — I broke down in tears, overwhelmed and exhausted from what felt like a relentless fight. At times, I found myself wishing her life away, willing the days to pass so she could reach 18 and finally access the medication she needed. No parent should ever feel forced into hoping their child grows up faster simply to receive appropriate healthcare.
As a parent, my role is to advocate for my children and protect their wellbeing. The ongoing hostility directed at the trans community feels deeply personal, because it directly affects my daughter’s safety, dignity and future.
Being transgender is not a choice; it is an inherent part of who someone is. It deserves understanding, compassion and respect. Personal opinions, political agendas or ideological beliefs should never override the relationship between a clinician and their patient, nor interfere with evidence-based medical care.
Dr Webberly, I have learned so much from you and I am so grateful you do this work. I am not trans, and I don't have many trans people in my life, but I know from coming out as a lesbian in the 90's how important it is to be believed. I didn't care if the world understood me, I just wanted them to believe me. The hatred for trans people on the Internet sometimes takes my breath away, but the dismissal of someone's reality disguised as care is almost more upsetting. It's "I know what's best for you" because "you aren't what you say you are," and worse, "what you say you are doesn't exist." I'll always remember the first person who believed me. I can imagine what seeing your content would do for a young trans person. Your knowledge and voice is so needed at this time.
I'll never understand why anyone wants to gatekeep gender identity. I love meeting humans who are different from me, and authenticity is infectious! Where does the anger come in?
I've been waiting for more detailed information on this trial since it was announced. Thank you for this update and the thoughtful way you point out words and actions that raise valid scientific concerns. We need this approach in every scientific endeavor.
As the mother of an 18-year-old transgender woman, I have witnessed a marked and deeply distressing shift in attitudes towards the trans community since she came out to me five years ago.
She was just 16 when the puberty blockers ban was introduced. I remember that day vividly — I broke down in tears, overwhelmed and exhausted from what felt like a relentless fight. At times, I found myself wishing her life away, willing the days to pass so she could reach 18 and finally access the medication she needed. No parent should ever feel forced into hoping their child grows up faster simply to receive appropriate healthcare.
As a parent, my role is to advocate for my children and protect their wellbeing. The ongoing hostility directed at the trans community feels deeply personal, because it directly affects my daughter’s safety, dignity and future.
Being transgender is not a choice; it is an inherent part of who someone is. It deserves understanding, compassion and respect. Personal opinions, political agendas or ideological beliefs should never override the relationship between a clinician and their patient, nor interfere with evidence-based medical care.
Megan, thank you for sharing that so painfully yet beautifully. Sending love, solidarity and support. We will get there, the truth always wins. ❤️
Dr Webberly, I have learned so much from you and I am so grateful you do this work. I am not trans, and I don't have many trans people in my life, but I know from coming out as a lesbian in the 90's how important it is to be believed. I didn't care if the world understood me, I just wanted them to believe me. The hatred for trans people on the Internet sometimes takes my breath away, but the dismissal of someone's reality disguised as care is almost more upsetting. It's "I know what's best for you" because "you aren't what you say you are," and worse, "what you say you are doesn't exist." I'll always remember the first person who believed me. I can imagine what seeing your content would do for a young trans person. Your knowledge and voice is so needed at this time.
Oh my goodness that made me so happy. And yes, all people want is to be believed. And actually why should we have to persuade them?
‘I fancy women’ - OK
‘I’m not a boy, I’m a girl’ - OK
Thank you for sharing your insights. They will also help trans people who are struggling right now.
I'll never understand why anyone wants to gatekeep gender identity. I love meeting humans who are different from me, and authenticity is infectious! Where does the anger come in?
Thanks for responding. That made me smile too😊
Then we’re both smiling right now. Lovely 😊
I've been waiting for more detailed information on this trial since it was announced. Thank you for this update and the thoughtful way you point out words and actions that raise valid scientific concerns. We need this approach in every scientific endeavor.
Thank you, Emily. I get fed up with the news feeding us what they want us to hear without asking the experts and people who live this every day.