“Born to Be” Documentary Screening

On the 10th of September, our chapter screened (virtually) "Born to Be".

"Born to Be" is an intimate portrayal of transgender and gender non-conforming patients who choose to undergo surgery and the doctor who cares for them. It is a hopeful look at a future where trans and gender non-conforming individuals have access to safe and high-quality transition-related care.

With extraordinary access, this film takes an intimate look at how one doctor's work impacts the lives of his patients as well as how his journey from renowned plastic surgeon to pioneering gender-affirming surgeon has led to his own transformation.

We were able to learn about a number of very different people and the pain they had experienced and the excitement they felt in realizing their dream. One young person's journey uncovered how achieving that dream does not always give them everything that they hoped for. On the other hand, we learn about someone whose long life has been waiting for their inner image to conform with their outer image and the contentment they are able to realize.

Our discussion was very interesting especially as. Dr. Jess Ting was able to join us despite the time difference and his early schedule. His update since the film was wonderful as he now has a staff of doctors so he isn't carrying the whole load. He said he had met with thousands of prospective patients who usually say "I knew I was in the wrong body before I could walk".

He told us that in a study of 2500 cases that less than 1% believe they'd made a mistake. In referring to the young person who realized that the surgery hadn't completely fulfilled their dreams he said "I can't repair the wounds to one's soul and mind which might involve a lifetime of hate".