A small number might have noticed that I am no longer using the username of Payter Eketta. Well there is a reason for this. Back in June of 2012 I finally started getting treated for PTSD/Depression by the VA. My PTSD is combat-related due to Desert Shield/Storm. However, my depression has absolutely nothing to do with my PTSD. After many years of struggling with myself I am finally going to ask my Therapist for a referral to the Gender Clinic in the Jamaca Plain Campus of the Boston VA. I also had lunch with my daughter (my youngest) today and told her about my decision. My daughter was very happy that I felt I could tell her about something like this before telling anyone else and is very happy for me and is supportive. Now I just need to tell my son and the rest of my family about my decision to transition. Tomorrow I will be driving into Boston to attend one of the thursday meetings of the Vet2Vet Peer support group.
Major decisions on my part
A word from our sponsor:
Comments
Very encouraging...
...I'm very happy for your progress and your continued healing. God Bless!
Love, Andrea Lena
I am so proud of you
I am a retired Marine and also suffer PTSD and depression. I would love to share my journey and support with you if and when you are willing. I have been with the VA system for over 5 years and am very content with it. My hormones and medical come from them, however I transitioned elsewhere and before they started their treatment/support with me. If you have not, please see the Vet Center for your PTSD. In my view they are much better than the VA mental health. I would not give up my therapist for anything at this point.
I wish you the best and will think of you.
Kendra Manderscheid
(One step at a time is working)
PTSD and the VA
For some inexplicable reason, I started being treated for PTSD in 2006, and was immediately put in their DBT program. I had no combat experience. They felt that post 9/11 events in my job, and various other trauma was sufficient.
They have been wonderful to me. If I can offer support to any of you, just ask.
Gwen
It sounds like a very brave decision
and I wish you well with all that you'll have to deal with. I'm really pleased your daughter was so supportive, I hope the rest of the family are as helpful.
Good luck,
Angharad
Angharad
Update
After going to the Vet2Vet meeting I went to see my Mother. My Mother was actually not surprised when I told her I was going to transition. It seems that she started suspecting something like that back when I was 16 years old. Looks like loving and caring Mothers really DO know all. Tomorrow morning I will be going to see the oldest of my Sisters to tell her she is no longer the oldest daughter.