Nico, Belgium (he/him)

“I would tell myself to lean in, to not be ashamed or embarrassed, and to not avoid exploring gender just to please other people.”

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

It wasn't until I was around 33 that I fully accepted that I was trans. It was a very slow process, and didn't all happen at once.

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

I spoke to a lot of people and eventually a gender care team, all who reassured me that what I was experiencing was valid. Hormonal treatment has been huge, and I am looking forward to having surgery too.

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

Yes, more than I expected.

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

I would tell myself to lean in, to not be ashamed or embarrassed, and to not avoid exploring gender just to please other people.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

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

Yes.