My relationship with my dad has been getting better over the years.

[LizAllison]

My relationship with my dad has been getting better over the years. It was tough with him wanting me to open up and wasn't ready to. We got into it a few times, mom told him to give me time on it. He did and things changed for the better after I came out as transgender at age 17. Being his only kid, he knew to love and accept me for who I am knowing an unhappy son was going to be replaced with a much happier daughter in his life. After being diagnosed with gender dysphoria, I began living and dressing as female and he was there when I seen the hormone specialist to be put on the estrogen and male hormone blockers. Said he was ready to see a much happier daughter come out more to me. He supported me through my transition starting in 1996 including mom and also my decision not to have the GRS at age 20. Walked me down the aisle twice Dad found this song that remind of us when it first came out and told him it was true

 

[Karen]

That's a beautiful story of growth and unconditional support. Your dad's willingness to give you space until you were ready, then fully stepping up through your transition, shows real strength on both sides. Holding off on GRS at 20 and still feeling that family backing must have made a huge difference in owning your path without pressure. Walking you down the aisle twice? That's the kind of bond that sticks.

I just listened to that link—Bob Carlisle's "Butterfly Kisses." Perfect pick from '96, right when things shifted for you. Those lyrics hit hard on a father's love evolving with his daughter, from pigtails to wedding days. Smart of him to share it; songs like that cut through words and land straight in the heart.

What made the biggest change after coming out? Any specific talks or moments that sealed it for you two?