Yesterday, Wednesday, I had my first visit with an endo. She was VERY understanding and helpful, and I ended up with patches instead of pills for my hormone treatments and, for the first time, progesterone, as well. Additionally, I made serious inquiries about an orchiectomy. I was told that the V.A doesn't "do that", but there might be a way around that.

This was at the V.A. hospital in Buffalo, New York, and I have to say that I was treated at ALL times, with respect and understanding, as well as compassion.

My doctor, Amy O'Donnell, the endo, told me that the V.A. doesn't usually prescribe for TSs if they are coming in for the first time, but if they are coming in from another source, having already started on HRT, they WILL continue treatment. She also told me that she is a doctor first, and a V.A. doctor second, and she does NOT desert her patients, no matter what the V.A. says.

At least I now have much less worry about blood clots from the oral estradiol, and an understanding, supportive atmosphere in which I can continue my slow transition.

I want to thank every one of you out there who have supported, counseled, comforted and guided me in this. You all have been a lifeline for me, and I love you all. I hope your transitions go smoothly and without incident. I feel much more clear and at ease with mine, now.

I feel as though I am blazing new trails through the V.A. care system, and I hope that my journey will ease the trip for those who come after me. It IS possible to do this through the V.A. system, a fact of which I was not aware til now.

Goddess bless you all.

Catherine Linda Michel