Melody’s Come-out Letter
Feb. 01, 2001
To My Friends and Acquaintances
Questions that have been asked and not asked is, what happened to Stan, Stan the man, Stan the computer man? Things are so very different. With this small communication I would like to inform you and very lovingly explain in a small account of what has taken place.
There have been many curious looks and questioning gazes. All of which I feel are very normal. Not in the least offensive. Firstly I would like to thank you who have expressed yourself to me personally and through others, of the love you have shown and the caring attitude toward me you have expressed. I am overwhelmed at times that so very many people care about me and are concerned about what happens to me.
Four years ago I was diagnosed with a birth defect, called Gender Identity Dysphoria (literally gender distress). In North America there are approximately one in 12 000 males and one in 37 000 females affected by the disorder. There is no known cause as well as no known cure at this time.
A question that often arises, are you gay? The answer to this is unequivocally "NO". Neither do I fall under the categories of Transvestite and Drag Queen.
Are you saying God made a mistake? "NO." It isn’t any different than a baby being born with one arm shorter than the other or birthmarks.
Over the last three years, I have been examined by doctors, psychiatrists, endocrinologists, and psychologists. The result of the examinations has put me into the category of female. The Ontario Government has granted me the change and all of my legal documents have been changed to reflect such. As far as the work place goes, I feel nothing will change. The same or better quality will still be performed. In fact, probably better because many issues and disturbances have been solved.
I am at far greater peace than I have been before.
Please, if you need to know something, don’t hesitate to ask. I would be delighted to go for coffee and explain it outside of work time. What to call me? Whatever is most comfortable to you. I will not be offended by being called Stan or Melody.
Thank you for you kindness and attention.
Sincerely
Stan (Melody)
This page last updated 22 March 2009 (site moved to new server).