The Doctor Is In

800 Days

You held Amanda's hand firmly. There was Dr. Laura Robinson, who came in first. She was the doctor that would be responsible for your continued hormonal treatments, for reasons other than your illness. Then there was Debbie Lopez, who would be your therapist for this journey. And finally, there was Erika Morales, a 6'0 transsexual female who would help you for the more practical issues you'd encounter.

"Well, I'm glad you are here ... do you prefer Dani?" Dr. Robinson asked.

"I'm planning to start using Danielle," you said softly.

"Danielle, perfect," Dr. Robinson said, smiling broadly. "Well, we are all here for you, Danielle. And understand that we are all kind of going towards one part of this transition, but collectively we're here to address any issue you may have. It may feel daunting right now. I understand from the oncologist that you've had a lot of HRT already, but there is a lot more to transitioning. From how you exercise, to how you talk and walk -- it's going to be a whole new world for you. And who are you?" she asked Amanda.

"I'm Amanda. Danielle and I are ... friends? It's complicated. We're kind of doing our own transition." Your transition team smiled at you.

"That is not uncommon," Debbie said. "There are going to be a lot of transitions in your life. But it's good you have someone to support you."

"That it is," you said, smiling at Amanda.