Nye, United Kingdom (they/them)

“I'm far from perfect, but my body's an honest reflection of who I am and I love it.”

Was there a definitive moment you realized you were trans? How old were you?

I was 14 my body was becoming alien to me - I couldn't see a future in which I was a woman, it just didn't and still doesn't make sense to me. I felt horribly detached from a body that seemed to be built for someone else's life and identity. At first it was little things, like I'd find myself wondering whether I'll look like a male relative when I grew up, only to realise that that made no sense, I was a girl - or I'd envy the way boys and men sounded and looked and wished I could look like they did. When I first found out about trans people I rejected the idea I was one at first, because in truth it scared me that I recognised myself in the description. I came to terms with the fact that that's what I was not long after.

How soon after did you start to make changes? What were these changes?

I set out a plan at 14 to try and medically transition via the NHS as quickly as possible. I changed my name and clothes, got a referral, and I changed my name legally with two friends as soon as I turned 18. At uni I finally got to start testosterone, and after I graduated I had top surgery. I finally feel at peace.

Have these changes started to make you feel more comfortable in your life and body?

Absolutely. I can listen to myself talking and it sounds like me. I can get dressed without feeling a horrible jarring sense of alienation from my body - I like the way I look. I'm far from perfect, but my body's an honest reflection of who I am and I love it.

What would you tell your younger self? Would you do anything differently?

You did good.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

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Have the gender-affirming steps you’ve taken impacted your overall happiness and sense of well-being?

Yes.