Useful

**jhoopsa** · 20-08-2007, 16:45

Are think your story is remarkable and, as a jounalist, I would like to tell the wider world.

Can you please get in touch,

John Ward - 07738 209 306

**Legs** · 20-08-2007, 18:31

If you were really a journalist, I would expect you to be able to spell it...

**BernardMcCabe** · 23-08-2007, 19:14

Mmmmmmmm,

**Legs** · 21-09-2007, 19:23

I suppose it’s a couple of months since my last update, so let’s see how things are now.

I have now been on feminising hormones for almost 3 months, and they are starting to have a noticeable effect on my figure. I have developed iddy-biddy breasts (although not even AA size yet – it’s not been long!) and a definite waistline. My bum has changed shape (so I’m told) and so, to a lesser degree, has my face. I am also noticing that my skin is becoming softer and more sensitive. I have also noticed that I have been calmer, and not as likely to fly off the handle at every little thing (ask my son – he downloaded a computer virus, and I didn’t even kick his teeth in!). I had another blood test last week and my oestrogen level has gone way up, and my testosterone has gone way down. That’s good, that’s what was expected. I’m back to see my specialist in a couple of weeks and we’ll see what his opinion is.

Just before Summer leave was my Re-Birthday Party. It was the first time that most of my colleagues had met me in female mode. The only dark shadow came when someone complained that I shouldn’t be in the British Legion bar (despite a member booking it, explaining to the Chairman what the party was for, and being signed in by another member). This person complained loud enough that we were just about to be kicked out, but thanks to a bit smooth talking from one of the guys we were allowed to stay. I must admit to being a tad annoyed by this. Isn’t the Legion meant to support soldiers – of whatever gender? Never mind, we didn’t let it get us down and a good night was had.

My family and I then took ourselves off to the Black Forest for a Summer Holiday. We stayed in park in Tennenbron. If you’re a biker, then you’d love the area. Lots of bendy roads and hills. Beautiful countryside. On the couple of sunny days we did plenty of walking – and on the dull days we did lots of walking too!

Anyway… I returned to work at the end of August. Only this time as a female. Was I nervous about walking into the HQ that morning? Well, surprisingly not. Most, if not all, of the staff knew what was coming and so were not shocked. A couple gave me a strange look when the reality struck them. Most though were fine. In no time at all they were treating me as they do any other woman in the HQ. I have noticed though that most of the females accepted me as one of them very quickly. There have been a few slip-ups in the pro-nouns, but I won’t get upset – unless it’s deliberate. Usually it’s the person who slips up who is more embarrassed than me!

I was measured up for a set of No2s a couple of months ago. I pretty much guarantee though that by the time they arrive (in 6 months time, so I’m told) I’ll have changed shape even more, and they’ll need more adjusting. The girls did plan for that they said, but we’ll see. I’ve also been measured up for Mess Dress. That’s an expensive business. Luckily the AGC Mess Dress Jacket/waistcoat is the same for females – so all that needs is just a little adapting. That’s saved me a couple of hundred quid!

It’s not only at work where I seem to have been accepted. Most of the others on the patch are happy to chat with me, and be seen with me. I drove a few of them out on a shopping trip a couple of weeks ago (girls only…) and no-one seemed fazed by me at all. I know that one of the husbands isn’t keen on me. I don’t think it’s just my change of gender, because he doesn’t seem to speak to anyone, and I am just noticing it more that he disappears if he sees me coming. Oh well, I can’t expect acceptance from everyone I suppose. I’d rather he ran away from me than turned around and punched me!

I had a trip out to the British Consulate in Dusseldorf yesterday to get my passport sorted out. It was a thrilling moment when I opened it up to see my new name, my photo and that all important ‘F’ in the sex box. It made me feel… real? I don’t know, but I was so excited to get it!

So what’s next? Well, back to London to see the specialist in a couple of weeks, and then again to London for an MoD LGBT Conference. Christmas is coming and with it the party season. Lots of posh frocks needed I think!

I have received so much support from friends and workmates, and the Chain of Command. I could not go through this fundamental change of life without support. I think at this point there are a few people who (PerSec in mind) deserve a mention for their support. My Supt Clerk, a Sgt in the next office, and my RAO. All three of these have gone to great lengths to help, support and accept me. From the beginning they have listened, made every attempt to understand and helped with the practical matters as well as being able to have a laugh about things with me. I love Army banter. I really believe that if the gentle pi$$ taking was missing, then acceptance would be harder to gain. So, to these three a special thanks.

Also there are those of you who have PM’d me, and those who have come up to me after reading my story and chatted. I’m sure I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. I believe the best way to combat bigotry is through education. Yes, I am going through some weird sh1t, but the person I’m becoming is the person I always have been – it’s just that now I can stop acting, and really be me. It has made me wonder though; how many people out there are really being themselves? How many put on a front, an act, to get them through the day? It might not be as intense as the act I had to put on, but still, it makes you think…

© Legs 2007

Copied from blogs (original entry) - post comments here.

**Mighty_doh_nut** · 21-09-2007, 20:34

Originally Posted by Legs

I have developed iddy-biddy breasts

Lets have a look then?

**halo_jones** · 24-09-2007, 07:06

rock on chicketta big chebs small chebs there all chebs ;)

**a_nony_mouse** · 24-09-2007, 07:24

Well done Legs, inspirational. Have a great future :D

**agcremf** · 27-09-2007, 15:19

Legs, may I send this to friend who is currently going through all kinds hell during her transition?

this will her get through it. :D :D

**RABC** · 16-10-2007, 07:45

Glad to hear it is going OK.

**old_fat_and_hairy** · 16-10-2007, 07:58

Great courage shown by you and family, and your honesty has gained respect everywhere.
You do realise that you now fall into my catchment area now? 'F' on pasport is all that is needed.

Seriously, hope it all goes smootly.