John Casey on Growing Through Gender Dysphoria

Grow Through It: LGBT Challenges

John Casey, founder of The Sustainable Journaling Project, describes living with gender dysphoria and finding his way to transitioning in his 40s after meeting other people who were gender non-conforming. He took baby steps throughout the process and had a ‘transition buddy’ that helped him meet his goals. His advice to everyone is to develop a list of resources on which to rely, and to keep a daily journal as a way of checking in, documenting and honoring the experience.

Kelly Beischel on Growing Through Her Two Sons Coming Out as Gay

Grow Through It: LGBT Challenges

Kelly Beischel, author of the forthcoming book The Love Project, describes coming to terms with her two sons coming out as gay. She realized that she had to choose love and acceptance or she might lose her children. Kelly learned not to pin her hopes and dreams on her children, to have flexible thinking, and self-compassion. While religious beliefs often hold people back from accepting their gay children, Kelly dedicated herself to love and acceptance, not rejection.

Jacob Rudolph on Growing Through Coming Out

Grow Through It: LGBT Challenges

Jacob Rudolph, Executive Director of The Pride Network, tells his story of coming out as gay during a high school awards ceremony. He stresses the value of authenticity and living a life of integrity. And suggests to others to seek support to get through the tough times.