[sdiy] Time to de-lurk.

[paula at synth.net]

Dear list,

I am posting this because I know that it wouldn’t be possible to speak 
to you all individually. I wanted you to hear this “Direct from the 
unicorns mouth” so to speak, rather than you hearing anything via 
rumours or second hand, though some of you will have heard about this by 
now.

I have been seeing a specialist doctor for a while, who agrees with me 
that for a long time I have done, and do, identify as a woman. I have 
also been undergoing hormone treatment to help my body better align with 
my mind.

Most of you will have heard of people in my situation being described as 
transgender, or just trans. I have reached the point where I cannot 
continue in my old gender role.

As of the 27th of January I am living as a woman. This means that my 
appearance and the way I dress has changed, also, I am no longer known 
as Paul, but as Paula (hence my change of name on Facebook). Pronouns 
are tricky, but I am sure I can count on you all to refer to me as ‘she’ 
though I understand we’re all human and mistakes will happen from time 
to time.

I am remaining married to my wonderful wife Jessie whom I love very much 
and is supportive of my decision. I also have the support of my family 
(mum, dad and brother) all of whom I also love very much.
I appreciate that for many of you this will come as a surprise and for 
others probably less so.

Please feel free to ask me about anything that you don’t understand, or 
would like to know. I don’t mind answering genuine questions, and if you 
have uncertainties, I would much rather you spoke to me directly about 
them. I would ask you to ask yourself would you be happy answering the 
question before asking it of me.

Many thanks
Paula Maddox (formally Paul Maddox)