Why I Finally Shared My Journey: Wandering No More
For forty years, I carried a heavy secret inside a gray duffel bag. Living as Tony, I battled depression and hid my crossdressing from my family, friends, and coworkers. But after attending my first transgender health conference in 2010, the jail doors opened. I finally understood who I was.
Many people ask me why I decided to write my transgender memoir, 40 Years and Wandering No More. The truth is, my life’s mission is no longer just about me—it is about making a difference for the transgender community.
A Bridge for Understanding
There is so much misinformation pushed by the media today about transgender individuals. I wrote this book to change that narrative. I want to build a bridge of understanding between the LGBTQ+ community and the rest of the world, including law enforcement and faith communities.
By sharing my late-in-life transition journey, I hope to show the public that we are:
● Dedicated military veterans, police officers, and doctors.
● Active community volunteers and loving family members.
● Everyday people who simply want to live authentic, happy lives.
Helping Others Find Themselves
My journey to gender-affirming surgery and full-time womanhood was paved with hope, faith, and love. I want this book to serve as a roadmap for transgender community support.
I wrote my story to:
● Help transgender youth and adults understand the secret person inside them.
● Encourage transgender people to live boldly and without apology.
● Educate cisgender allies on how to respect and protect trans lives.
The Mission Continues
We transition so that we can live. If my story can save one life or change one mind, then sharing my vulnerability was entirely worth it.