Martin, France (he/they)

“Transitioning can save lives.”

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

The person I dated back in middle school transitioned, catching up with him 6 years later at 22 made me realize I would truly love myself as a person and not an object if I transitioned.

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

A week after this hang out, November 19th, I started telling a few people I was trans. The rest went pretty quickly, and I am blessed to be surrounded by so many loving people.

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

I may jokingly whine about some changes, but the day I told the first person, I was fully prepared for every possible hardship. I'm so glad it's been a pretty smooth sailing so far. Nothing makes me more warm inside than hearing people refer to me with masculine terms.

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

Take your time, experiment, so when you're certain you can walk your true path, unwavering. Those who truly love you will follow and new ones will join. Focus on them. Life is worth it.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I didn't show signs as a kid or a teen. I repressed it so much, a few weeks before coming out I even assured my best friend that I wasn't trans. Transitioning was not life-changing in the sense that I am still the same person as before, with the same hobbies and shitty jokes. It was life-saving, because after realizing it, I wouldn't have been able to cope if I had not been in a healthy environment. Transitioning can save lives.

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

Yes.