Would it be okay to join you? (Looking for trans community and support)

[Breathless Wonder]

I'm not sure where to post, but could use some community and support.  I found out recently that my youngest sibling, who is only slightly older than my oldest child, and is like one of my own, is transgendered.  I didn't want to crash anyone's thread, and I am still not sure if this is the appropriate forum to post in.  I don't see a forum for Queer Families, though, so my apologies in advance if there is somewhere else I should put this.  I have encouraged my sibling to join MDC, because of this forum, but didn't want people to ignore threads created by a new user. 

I am having a hard time finding resources for myself and my sibling.  Most of what I know about transgender issues actually comes  from this forum.  I have a 16 month old, and I live in an area that is not accepting of LGBT individuals.  There is no local group that I can attend, and I just would feel more comfortable here, with like minded people, if that is okay?

If you don't mind me being here, I look forward to getting to know you!

[justrose13]

you are most welcome here, though it's unfortunate (for you and your situation) that we dont have a "Queer Families" thread. most of us are TTC, pregnant or parenting as queer but that doesn't mean a new thread can't be made! or if you have specific questions or need advice, you might just create a thread for that specific thing.

i thank you, on behalf of the queer community, for being supportive!

[prettyisa]

Hi there! I was thinking about your post--although you don't say how old your sibling is, I thought this might be an interesting article for you:
http://www.autostraddle.com/19-terribly-interesting-tips-on-raising-a-trans-kids-from-a-trans-kids-136384/

As Wehrli said, we're all happy to talk, though some of us probably don't have tons of experience, we all know what it's like to be different.

[pokeyAC]

I just saw this book.  It's written by an expert on queer conceptions and parenting.  It might be helpful.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Transgender-Child-Handbook-Professionals/dp/1573443182/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1

[Breathless Wonder]

I just typed a huge response and lost the whole damn thing!!!  UGH!  I will try again later, but I wanted to thank those of you who have responded. 

prettyisa: the sibling is my 20 yo sister, who wishes to become male.

[CascadiaMama]

You should check out TransActive: http://www.transactiveonline.org/index.php

It's a Portland, Oregon based group for transgendered youth and their families. There's lots of good information on their site, and it's a great starting point to find further info. I know the woman who runs it, and she's incredible--regularly wins kudos and accolades for the amazing community service she is providing (to people all over the country!).

And I second/third everyone else--welcome!

[Breathless Wonder]

AmyPDX: Thank you!  I had not yet seen that resource!