Summertime Sadness

The summer is a tricky time for people in the Trans community. With all of the pool parties, trips to the beach, and tanning sessions - there's a lot of pressure to wear a bathing suit. Some of us hate our bodies as it is, and/or can't find something we're comfortable wearing especially in public. So Saturday was a family BBQ and as dumb as it may sound, I felt left out when all of the guys just stripped their shirts and hung out in the hot tub. It's hard to explain what it's like to someone who's not going through it (as most things in life are). So when I was bummed about it, and tried to explain it - it never came out right. One one hand, I'm upset I couldn't just join them. On the other hand, it shouldn't bother me because some people don't like pools/hot tubs at all and wouldn't have gone in anyway. Also, it seemed as if the only one feeling uncomfortable or awkward in the whole situation was me. So I just kept thinking to myself that if things go as planned, I could be joining them shirtless in the hot tub next summer. Won't that be nice and awkward for everyone! =D Can't wait to see the looks on their faces. It'll be priceless.

As I was saying, plans are moving with surgery. I should be getting the letter from my therapist today to send to the insurance company and surgeon's office, and as soon as that is approved I can schedule a consult with the surgeon in MA that I want to use - and then schedule a date. It's very exciting and I can honestly say that I am not nervous about it at all. I mean, I'm nervous about the surgery itself, which is fine - but not the reason why I'm doing it. I remember when it was a debate in my head if I was ready for this type of surgery and now, I just can't wait to get my tits off. Seriously, it's every day I wake up and think how nice it's going to be to get that weight off my chest. ( That was for you, Finny <3 )

Now to just take my time with the right steps going forward and hopefully the surgery will be taking place early 2015! Wish me luck!

Just as a plug - if you want to donate to my fund here's the link to me GoFundMe page - CLICK HERE

So feel free to check it out and donate if you want! Personal thank you's to anyone who donates no matter the amount!

Leaps and Bounds of This Century...

As of October 8th, 2013 - Blue Cross Blue Shield Covers Gender Reassignment Surgery.

Guess who didn't know that? ..........................-_-

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So I was at work, and bored, and went on Google. As most of my generation is, I am a google master. I can find just about anything in less than 2 minutes. Seriously - there are a lot of us that have this power.

I found information that my insurance covers my full mastectomy surgery. I was wary, as this information was general about the company and it all depends on what group you are under. So I called them, and was told that it was covered. I asked about doctors I had in mind and they are, in fact, listed as in-network. I was excited, but still waiting for the other shoe to drop. I waited two days and just called again to get someone else on the phone. It's still covered and the Dr. I want to use is still in-network. WHAT?!

To think that less than a month ago I was CONVINCED that I would be paying COMPLETELY out of pocket - and now to know that I can use insurance.... saying "I can breathe easier" would be a huge understatement.

So please, if you are trans or know anyone who is trans - be sure to call your insurance company and see if they can help at all with payment. I am lucky enough (and by that I mean I pay quite a bit monthly to insurance) to have a reasonable deductible.

And the doctor is in MA instead of FL so we just have to drive, not fly.

If anyone has any questions for me about anything - me, trans questions in general, life questions, advice, surgery, who I'm looking to go to, prices - I have done a bit of research. So feel free to email me and I will do my best to help you!

My personal email is: Akircheim@gmail.com

Here's hoping that it all works out and I will keep you posted.

SO EXCITING!!!

The best day of their lives...as long as we all stick to the schedule.

David and I have not been friends forever. We didn't grow up together, or even meet as kids at all. We met as adults, only a few years ago - when I first started changing pronouns. He and Nicole have been nothing but amazing as friends and supporters.

They are getting married today.

I'm not going to say "it's hard to believe what good friends we become" because it's not. They are amazing people who have easily become two of my closest friends. I am beyond happy and excited for them to be getting married!

I do have to admit... I am a little jealous. ;-) It's okay though...my time will come eventually.

Sarah and I love you both and today is going to be awesome. We look forward to spending many more years as friends.

Mazel tov!