22nd of May, 2013. The day I will finally consider myself complete. It has been quite the journey getting to this point. Since I posted last, I have done a lot of things to get ready for this day.
Just before the end of last year, I started investigating surgeons. I ended up deciding on Dr Suporn Watanyusakul in Thailand. He is one of the most world renowned surgeons in the field and has pioneered his own techniques. It is for this reason that he is considerably more expensive than many other surgeons in Thailand. But for this, it’s well worth it.
On Valentines’ Day, I saw my psychiatrist, Dr Russel Date. He gave me the letter I needed approving surgery and also filled in the superannuation release forms. I then saw my GP and he filled out the other form. It was going so well that I contacted Dr Suporn’s office and told them to book me in.
Just yesterday, I received the letter from the Australian Department of Human Services approving my application to withdraw my superannuation for surgery. Needless to say I am extremely excited right now and can’t wait to get on that plane and fly to Thailand; to have the wish I have dreamed of my whole life come true. To finally be me, completely, in both body and mind.
I will be flying out from Australia on the 19th of May, surgery on the 22nd, then returning on the 15th of June. If anyone else reading this will also be in Thailand in the Bangkok or Chonburi area, let me know, I’d love to catch up.
You can withdraw your super for surgery?! I had no idea. Is it something like this? http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/enablers/centrelink/early-release-of-superannuation/compassionate-grounds-medical-treatment
Yep, that’s exactly what I used. Most trans women in Australia are completely unaware of this. To be honest, it was pretty easy.
Okay, that’s definitely something to keep in mind, when the time comes for me.
Thanks so much!
Im a happy for you! Thanks for posting this.
Hey im thinking about seeing this Dr Date guy… is he ok? i kind of have reservations with seeing a guy but hes like the only one in perth right?
He is really good. For me, I only saw him a few times and he did everything I needed him to do. The last time I saw him (before the surgery approval one), he said that I didn’t need to see him again at all until I needed approval for surgery, and that he’d be happy to give it. He is very understanding, and yeah, the only one in Perth.
Cool that’s very reassuring. I guess it’s about time I stoped wasting time and go see him.
I’m really glad I came across this as I had no idea about being able to withdraw superannuation for it. Thanks for making this post!
Any pointers for where you did research on who to have do your SRS? I wasn’t planning on it initially but after 4 months on hormones my feelings on it are changing and I should probably start doing some reading.
Well I’ve been doing research on surgeons for years now, asking around, reading articles, etc. I picked Suporn based on the results of many surgeons and determined his was the best for me.
wow Geek to Girl, you look so different from when you first started transitioning. You look great :o)
and good luck with your surgery too xXx
Hi, fellow I.T. professional !
How is life for folks like you and me, in Western Australia? I’m asking because I work for a huge international corporation called Oracle and am seriously considering asking them to be transferred elsewhere for a new start socially. I’m from Vermont, but Australia’s always been a dream for me. Perhaps you could provide a dose of reality?
Talk about being a procrastinator, I also felt as you did, from the time I was little… now I’m 48 and only getting started now. It warms my heart to read of your strength and accomplishments… and overcoming your procrastination.
You go girl !
Hugs,
Karla
PS You look _really_ beautiful in those pictures ! I am so glad you started young…
You look beautiful. Best of luck with your decision.
Violet Ivy, Author, Lucky Girl – How I Survived the Sex Industry
violet-ivy.com