What mom cares about most is that I'm happy, healthy and enjoying my life.

Obviously the transgender movement has not progressed in the way that the gay and lesbian movement has. But Im an activist - thats just the kind of person I am.

Deep down, my mom had long suspected I was gay... Much of her anger and hurt came from her sense of betrayal that she was the last to be told.

I want to create a place where trans people and our allies could come together to share experiences, information and ideas. Being transgender or loving someone who is transgender can be challenging in our society and I hope that members of this site will also use this space as a place to support and encourage each other. Together, we can strengthen our community and open the hearts and minds of others.

It really bothers me when I see people doing my mother in drag. I mean, just imagine if you saw people doing that with your mother.

People who don't have gender dysphoria aren't going to catch it by watching me dance on television.

I've been embraced by a new community. That's what happens when you're finally honest about who you are; you find others like you.