At its core, this is a story about a family. All families experience transitions. However, the transition this family is experiencing is one that is not only considered taboo, it is often feared. In sharing this story, the hope is that others will see the beauty in supporting one another to live life authentically. The hope is to enhance empathy and understanding for not only transgender people, but those who love them.

This blog is dedicated to two amazing women who fiercely believed that love is love, people are people, and education about the “other” is the most powerful tool we have to lead to acceptance of that which we do not understand.

My mother, Doreen, loved her grandchildren with a red-hot intensity. Her unrelenting support of her trans grandson was not to be trifled with. Doreen loved a good story – almost as much as her family. It was important to her that we tell the story of my son’s journey to help people understand and love him as much as she did. I hope that this blog will live up to her vision.

My longtime supporter, friend, and therapist, Emily, first suggested that I start blogging about this journey when it began in 2016. She felt strongly that it would help people. I told her I was too scared to take it on. I was scared about sharing our story, and I was petrified of what life would be like for my son as he grew up. Emily, in her stern but caring way, said to me, “He has been given a gift to start this journey at a young age. It’s going to be a beautiful transition. You will see.”

We lost Emily in 2020 and Doreen in 2022. I want them to be remembered for their beautiful spirits and for their love and support. This story is dedicated to them.