Left: March 2016; the first time I actually paused to listen to that little voice tugging on my heart and thought about what my future might hold if I was true to myself. Right:November 2018; almost an entire year of publically speaking my truth and being my true self. The difference is night and day. I no longer dread the start of a new day, wishing I had died and not been forced to open my eyes for another numb, bleak, grey day with nothing to look forward to. I have a renewed sense of self and of hope that now has me cautiously excited about what each new day will bring.

I am so grateful to live in the country that I do, I am grateful for the resources that are available to me for minimal costs. Canada is an amazing place to live as a Transgender person. I am so appreciative of all of the supports and the continued commitment of the community to learn and begin to accept me and my fellow Transgender siblings. I know it isn’t that way everywhere, which breaks my heart. On this transgender day of remembrance I want to take a moment to thank all who have gone before me, and continue to fight for a voice and a place to feel accepted by sacrificing careers, housing, education, family, financial security, personal and mental health, and even their lives in order for the moment I am currently finding myself in to be the reality of the achievements you have accomplished. I will never have to struggle as hard or fight as valiantly because the ground work has been laid in blood, sweat, tears, tiaras, oversized hoodies and sequins. I love each and every single one of you. Thank you for what you have given to mine and future generations. Your tireless efforts have not fallen on a numb heart.

Thank you for allowing the safety for me to be who I truly am without fear for my life. I have picked up the torch where you left off and am ready to continue to strive for a brighter future by letting my light be a beacon of hope.