[kelise]

Hello. My name is Kairi Elise Gatto. I'm 29, and hopefully will be getting my surgery soon. My story is pretty typical. I knew I was different at age 4 or maybe younger. I wasn't allowed to play with girls, and I hated doing the things the boys wanted to do. I was too embarrassed to ask for girls clothes and toys, but I do remember throwing a fit everytime my Mom cut my hair. I wanted long hair so bad. It only got worse through middle and high school. I started experimenting with my mom's clothes at age 10. When I turned 16 and got a car, I started going out regularly to hone my female appearence. I always had a plan to leave everyone I knew behind and start a new life fresh as a girl. I tried it in 2000 by moving to Vegas and not telling anyone. But I ran out of cash and had to come home to the closet. I fell into the same trap most fall into. In 2004 I married the first girl to say she was "ok" with my being trans, although I had to wear a tux at the wedding(shudder). In 2006 I couldn't take it anymore. I started going to the free couseling provided by my job, and shortly after began hormones. I came out to everyone, with surprising success, with the exeption of my father. As it became more and more 'real" my marriage began to fall apart, and it was I who finally ended it. In 2007, I changed my name, got a rhinoplasty, started laser, and returned to work as Kairi from that day forward. I've been full time ever since. I started exploring the lesbian realm after that, and felt right at home, even though I wasn't 100% accepted by the other girls. Regardless, I stuck to it, and six months ago I met the woman of my dreams. She was an out lesbian. We hit it off, she had no idea I was trans. I told her that night, she was shocked at first, but soon was totally cool with it. Today we live together and are madly in love as a true lesbian couple. Now I'm getting ready for my surgery. My insurance has said repeatedly they have approved me for it. We both are very excited and hopeful.

[bernii]

Well hello Kairi Elise Gatto :)

It is very nice to meet you.

I am glad that you have found a special partner in your life.

I wish you success in your transitioning, SRS, and your relationships :)

Love

Brenda

[Evan_J]

Nice (seriously). Welcome.

[Donna Jean]

Kairi.....

I loved reading your post....

It's a lovely story and has a happy ending.....

I like those....

LOVE

Donna Jean

[Elizabeth K]

I must have been napping - I missed this introduction! Then I saw you had visited Donna Jean's profile and was stunned by your beauty! Looking I found this introductory posting.

So a late - WELCOME WELCOME WELCOME

And your story is remarkable! I know it was terribly difficult for you for so long, but I know everyone will be encouraged at the near final results.

I too have a lifetime of gender dysphoria - but I was not able to address it until I was just over twice your age. I am transitioning and living full time in New Orleans except at work (I keep getting fired if I come out) my surgery is in my schedule for about a year.

Good to have you here.

Lizzy

[Gin]

Thank you for sharing your story! As Lizzy said, I am incredibly encouraged by where you are now. I am also jealous that you have insurance that covers everything ;) It's lovely to meet you.

luv

Gin