2 minute read
PFLAG - Sam Dawson
by Focus
focus_contributor.
PFLAG
with SAM DAWSON
from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
THIS MONTH I HAD A CHANCE TO CHAT TO NICOLE, A MOTHER IN OUR COFFS HARBOUR PFLAG GROUP AND IT IS GREAT TO HEAR HER PERSPECTIVE.
Nicole, please tell us
about you and your role as a mum of a transgender child?
My role as a mum to my daughter has made me change my perspective of transgender children. Our journey started very early in my daughter’s life, so I had to adapt and change my thought processes about how life should be. I am a single parent and so I had to manage my way through this on my own. I was a very black-and-white person in my thoughts, but with research and great support from professionals I was able to see a whole lot of rainbows, and it’s been an absolute pleasure seeing my daughter grow into a lovely girl.
How have you found the journey with people around you?
I have nothing but praise, our family and friends have been my rock and have supported me throughout this journey. I have had fantastic support from professionals, such as Angie Laussel from the Counselling Space in Coffs Harbour, she has been amazing, and the support from my daughter’s school and the Coffs Community has been great.
What roadblocks have you found?
I have not experienced any roadblocks yet; we have been very blessed that this has been a positive journey.
What should people understand?
This is not a choice. This is who she is – all transgender children feel something within themselves, that they believe they are who they are. Until you witness it with your own eyes it is hard to understand, but with education and compassion you will understand they are ALL beautiful children who need to be loved, supported and nurtured.
What can our community do to make life easier for you and your family?
To be more educated and not judge. Just accept that child for who they are, like you would any other child. It takes a lot of courage to be their true selves and embrace who they are.
What advice would you give to other families in the same situation?
Reach out to other families who have had experience with this, educate yourself about Transgender and join groups – and don’t forget to breathe, this doesn’t have to be a huge thing in your life. Speak to a professional about how you are feeling, both parents and child. Only speak to the people you know will be supportive. And be gentle with yourself.
What are the best resources you have encountered?
Angie Laussel from the Counselling Space in Coffs Harbour has been a tremendous support. Also the Maple Leaf Gender Clinic in Newcastle, Facebook groups for Parents, and PFLAG Coffs Coast.
PFLAG is here to give help, support and information to families and friends of all gay people right here on the Coffs Coast. pflagcoffscoast.com PFLAGcoffcoast 0417 861 045
