Parker, United States (he/him)

“Whether you take steps to medically transition or not, you matter and deserve to be seen as you are."

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

Funnily enough I fully realized in sophomore year of high school. So around 16-17 years old.

I was watching the musical Dear Evan Hansen and when one of the main male characters came on I thought, “Man I wish I looked like him.” Followed by, “…Do most girls want to look like men?”

There were plenty of signs before then but that was the first time I actively realized.

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

Sophomore/Junior year of high school. I bought more masculine clothes and was out to my school friends. Sadly my family is…Less than supportive so I couldn’t do much outside of school.

Luckily I’ve moved out and started Testosterone.

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

Yes absolutely. I have a lot of dysphoria about my body and voice so every little thing helps. It’s been so incredible watching hormones take me closer to being who I always should have been.

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

I would tell myself to not let my family make me doubt myself. That I know what’s best. And that I’ll have people that will see and respect me even if others won’t.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

To anyone reading please don’t let anyone tell you who to be. And just know, whether you take steps to medically transition or not, you matter and deserve to be seen as you are.

And just know even if things seem dark right now, it will get better. Please hang on, I can say from experience that it is so worth it.

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

Yes.