I have been involved with the CD Orlando support group since 2004. It was a great help on my self acceptance process. Being validated as person while having relationships with likeminded people was a rewarding experience.

As with most of us old folks, I came from not knowing how to call myself to transvestite, cross dresser and today I use the inclusive denomination of transgender. With time I drifted from being extra concerned with myself to a concern with my community. I am not an activist by nature but I try to do what I can to empower my community and any oppressed minority.

My need to have an extra feminine appearance was transformed to find a feminine identity in harmony. I guess this is probably part o the aging process.

Very important.

I note from Ellen's SO

As Ellen's significant other (wife) for almost 20 years and having joined this group at the same time that she did, I have to say that it was great to find other wives (SOs) like me. I like to see things in a positive way and am good of making "lemonades" so finding a positive environment were people could be themselves and real was very important to me am to our relationship.