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A small number might have noticed that I am no longer using the username of Payter Eketta. Well there is a reason for this. Back in June of 2012 I finally started getting treated for PTSD/Depression by the VA. My PTSD is combat-related due to Desert Shield/Storm. However, my depression has absolutely nothing to do with my PTSD. After many years of struggling with myself I am finally going to ask my Therapist for a referral to the Gender Clinic in the Jamaca Plain Campus of the Boston VA. I also had lunch with my daughter (my youngest) today and told her about my decision. My daughter was very happy that I felt I could tell her about something like this before telling anyone else and is very happy for me and is supportive. Now I just need to tell my son and the rest of my family about my decision to transition. Tomorrow I will be driving into Boston to attend one of the thursday meetings of the Vet2Vet Peer support group.
Comments
Very encouraging...
...I'm very happy for your progress and your continued healing. God Bless!
Love, Andrea Lena
I am so proud of you
I am a retired Marine and also suffer PTSD and depression. I would love to share my journey and support with you if and when you are willing. I have been with the VA system for over 5 years and am very content with it. My hormones and medical come from them, however I transitioned elsewhere and before they started their treatment/support with me. If you have not, please see the Vet Center for your PTSD. In my view they are much better than the VA mental health. I would not give up my therapist for anything at this point.
I wish you the best and will think of you.
Kendra Manderscheid
(One step at a time is working)
PTSD and the VA
For some inexplicable reason, I started being treated for PTSD in 2006, and was immediately put in their DBT program. I had no combat experience. They felt that post 9/11 events in my job, and various other trauma was sufficient.
They have been wonderful to me. If I can offer support to any of you, just ask.
Gwen
It sounds like a very brave decision
and I wish you well with all that you'll have to deal with. I'm really pleased your daughter was so supportive, I hope the rest of the family are as helpful.
Good luck,
Angharad
Angharad
Update
After going to the Vet2Vet meeting I went to see my Mother. My Mother was actually not surprised when I told her I was going to transition. It seems that she started suspecting something like that back when I was 16 years old. Looks like loving and caring Mothers really DO know all. Tomorrow morning I will be going to see the oldest of my Sisters to tell her she is no longer the oldest daughter.