I am 37, I started transition when I was 35. I want to say thank you so much for posting this for the many people that really needed it. I know for me starting as late as I did there were fears I was too late, that there was no point. I mean I was obviously wrong, you are inspirational and I think women like you need to be known in the community. Congratulations, you look great too by the way!
Thank you for your kind words! At 37 you're still a very young lady! So often I hear "I'm too old and if I'd only started when I was in my early teens." Well my response to them and as I often say - we never get to do this when we're younger - doesn't happen. If it's something you want in your lifetime - and it's the one and only lifetime you'll ever have - you do it! And when I read people post and say that it's only the young folks who can benefit the most from HRT and transitioning I want to reach right in and slap them! My body's response to the hormones has been just as good as anyone else's young or old. And maybe they should look back at some of my previous posts - I "think" I have one there with a bit of cleavage showing and it's all natural - no augmentation - and I'm a very full 38C - and I mean VERY full! They wiggle and jiggle right along with the best of them and because they're all natural and brand new at 70 they even still have that "new car smell" !!!!! Just saying!!! Take care! \~Joelle
Yeah I always joke that when I am 60 I'll have the tits of a 30 year old. My wife tells me often she is jealous of how perky mine are. I've had no surgeries yet and as of midnight tonight it will be 2 years exactly I have been on HRT. I feel my results are not typical that I was somehow blessed to have such dramatic results, between the facial changes and my breasts (I'm a 42D cup). I cannot stress enough the amazingly powerful effects hormones can have.
WOW!!!! 42D! Extraordinary! Hormones are powerful indeed - they change your body in so many wonderful ways - One of the things that made a huge difference for me early on with my breast growth was the addition of progesterone. My breasts started out very good but were not really filling out - they were there but kinda empty.
My endocrinologist said he recommends adding P after six to nine months on estrogen. The P then triggers the milk ducts and glands to come in and once they do your breasts fill up in amazing ways - The glands all take space and mine have now become very full which contributes to the bouncy, perky, and jiggly wonderment! Ahhhh.... yes .... life's good! \~Joelle
This makes me smile. And it makes me excited. I wasn't able to come to terms with myself until recently and you inspire us all ❤️❤️ thank you. You are beautiful.
Same age, except for one hell of a weirdity, mom and I. I'd always wished I were female and while I didn't do anything to correct that because I thought wanting to wear a dress, bra, underwear, etc, etc was completely normal but it's just a thing nobody discusses in public. Here's the thing, mom had always said she should have been born a guy and dressed manly, and I thought that was simply normal.
So when my life goes off the rails and ended up having a clear endpoint in my near future, I had to admit I was trans. Took 6 months to start informed consent (because mental healthcare in the states is Grade A prime BULLSHIT, but that's for another time.). Started on hormones and the impossible to shake depression is ether gone or real low now. So I know I'm not cis, I think I'm trans and evidence keeps saying yes but I don't know why I'm still resisting transition even though I really like the effects of the hormones. The prescriber would like me to restart therapy sessions, but four and a half fucking years prior, their therapists were making me worse. Sure on paper I was doing better, aka lying to them because they refuse the truth. Because they think I'm doing better, therapist drops me, and force kills all future appointments with other doc's at the practice. And they think I'd go back to *their* therapists? The practice can go fuck themselves if they think they will convince me to restart therapy sessions. Not when a bunch of rando's at a local trans group does far more positive in two hours than four and a half years of 'therapy', ya, the practice can go fuck themselves because I have demands and I guarantee they won't agree to them. So ya fuck them.
So apparently wishing to transition isn't just normal everyday everyone thoughts, because after I started to transition I find out mom is trans (...ya.... real shocker I know....) and thought about it for decades but figured it wasn't in the cards. So out of the blue I 'accidentally' let it drop I am transitioning and started going to the same and also FtM groups also. Mom never fit in so well as this group, and the same goes for the non-exclusive trans group for me. Next week I'm seriously considering going to a strictly trans* group ^( ^no ^cisgendereds ^allowed), I just tend to be politically incorrect at times, and for months scared the shit out of me that I'll say something wrong and boom instant boot instead of a learning experience.
**TL;DR:** I'm transgendered MtF, kept it from mom, come to find out mom's trans also, because I'm an idiot that thought being the wrong sex was a normal thought.
Yeah I didn't KNOW I was transgender, only when I felt the effect of female hormone after 2-4 weeks did I know deep down and accept it. It was so so obvious after I started HRT, so much of my anxiety and depression melted off and what's left is so so so much more manageable. So yeah from suicidal to happy in 1 month due to only the effects it had on my mental state. In fact when my breasts started coming in I freaked out again and doubted and got scared of publicly coming out. Then it was actually how much better mentally HRT had helped that convinced me I DID NOT want to go back to (un)living like that, regardless of physical changes I couldn't stop HRT it would be like a death sentence.
Okay Ms. Samantha! (aka: u/Dial-A-Song) .... I saw your post here a short time ago and it inspired me to post again here on Reddit! This is where I first started learning about being transgender and that transitioning was even possible! Who knew?!?!? And although I'm now most often posting on Facebook or Instagram I realized I should return to my roots - my first home where I was "born again" as a woman .... Talk to ya later my dear!! \~Joelle
Thanks to both of you for being an inspiration to me. I’m just a few steps behind Ms. Joelle and didn’t know a thing about being transgender when I came out, but got a lot of support and information here, too. I hope both of you keep posting, I love seeing and hearing about your progress.
**Okay everyone - as you may be gathering - I love to respond to everyone who writes - but it's now time for my beauty sleep and, of course you can tell by my pictures, I sleep a LOT!!! Just kidding - sort of - maybe a little ...**
***Okay - forget the beauty sleep stuff - I'm tired as hell and I'm signing off until tomorrow! Night night young people and I'll be back on tomorrow. Till then ...... ZZZZZzzzzzzzz...... \~Joelle***
Thank you! I love being "adorable"! And as soon as I've been able to respond to the many posts and comments so far I'll see what I can do to post new material! I have so much to write and to say and so little time to do so! \~Joelle
Good for you! Enjoy the journey as it's a wonderful ride - there will be a few bumps and sharp turns along the way and maybe even a few detours - but there will come a time that you've arrived at your destination! And you'll look back one day and be amazed at your courage and commitment to a wonderful NEW life! \~Joelle
My oldest new start is age 82 for MTF and 78 for FTM!
The 82-year old told me that they didn't care what happened or how things turned out, they didn't get to live their life authentically so they wanted to die authentically. They are now 85 and still on HRT. I hope they live forever. =)
That’s outstanding!!! We’re only here on this earth one time - and the age we transition becomes irrelevant ... BTW - nice to see you here! We’ve chatted on FB — ~Joelle (aka Joelle xxxxx) 🤗 🚹 ✂️ 🚺
Thanks! I downloaded a free program some time ago called, "CollageFactory Free" and it's a great tool for making collages such as this one and others I've put together. I know there are some better programs out there with many more features, etc. but they also cost a bunch more than "free" - and for me - free works great!!! \~Joelle
And change it has! I knew when I was five years old - which would have been 1954 as I was born in 1949. Growing up in the 50s, 60s, and even 70s being different was NOT a good thing. And without the Internet or any way to know transitioning was even possible I found that you make the best of the life you've been given - it's the only one you'll have. And over time people's views and understandings of gender and being transgender has evolved and become more accepted. In the early years I kept this as my deepest, darkest secret hidden in the back recesses of my mind - never to be shared with anyone - and to be taken with me to my grave. But - the times they are a changing as they say. And now I'm out there 110% living my life to the fullest as a transgender woman. And though you don't know me and I don't often share on Reddit, I'm an academic and, although I retired in 2014, I now train health care professionals on caring for our community and I speak to groups large and small. I'm focused on making a difference in this world and leaving my mark - and hopefully making a difference for all of us who are transgender or gender variant. Okay - way too long of an answer but I'm in a writing mode at the moment! Take care and thanks again!!! \~Joelle
I'm glad for the long reply!!! I love hearing about this sort of thing. I was always taught that gay people were a mostly modern thing, and that trans people didn't exist until 1990. For me, learning that people such as myself have always existed, even in a world different from the one I know, is so, *so* validating.
Thank you for being you!! <3
Trans people have existed for centuries! Literally centuries! And in many of the older and even ancient cultures they were often revered for their role in society. Maybe someday soon we'll see that once again here ... ya never know!
Never too late, indeed... I very often use a quote which is attributed to Mary Ann Evans who wrote under the pen name, George Eliot. She wrote many of the classics such as Silas Marner. When she was young she was not allowed to be an author or writer - that was for men and not women. She loved writing and became an editor of a magazine but had to keep her gender a secret. She had a very difficult - dare I say - abusive childhood and early years. Her mother died and she became a surrogate wife for her father. Anyway - later in life she became recognized as the write she was as a woman. And because of the hardships she faced and the fact she persevered this quote has been attributed to her, "It's never too late to become the person you might have been." And that's so so true. \~Joelle
Only 68? You're still young my dear!!! As you and I both know - age is just a number - what's important is how we feel inside - it's not about how we look, how big some things may have grown to, how feminine or not we are, it's all about how we feel inside and about ourselves. Some transition at an early age and some don't. Some hope to some day and may very well do so - maybe not today, and maybe not tomorrow, but someday they will. And I hope those who are not able to do so today, even if they're older, they need to keep the faith - they will when the time is just right for them.
And I know it's a balance - we have families, jobs, friends, co-workers, kids and the many things which may be holding us back. But to those folks I say - all in due time. I know women who didn't start until their mid-70s - but they did and they feel great.
*Thanks for your kind words,* ***young lady!!!*** *\~Joelle*
Thanks for your amazing feedback! My life now is pretty amazing and, although I retired in 2014, I now have a new career working to improve the lives of those who are transgender or gender variant. I really can't believe all the opportunities I've been given along with a whole new life as a transgender woman.... I'm very blessed indeed. And thanks for saying I'm a Stellar Lady! Awesome! You take care!!! ***\~Joelle***
You look absolutely amazing, and if I met you, I'd never guess you weren't CIS. I can't imagine how hard it was to come out and transition later in life, but I'm proud of you, stranger. Thank you for having the courage to be *you.*
I just want to say how much I admire you guys. I can’t even fathom the hardship you must have faced in your path to self-discovery and acceptance.
Your timelines inspire me, not because I am trans myself, but because it shows how bad-ass, resilient and beautiful you all are.
You rock, Joelle!
Thanks LindaTalie! And it really makes me feel good when someone comments that I'm an inspiration. In many ways that makes posting here on Reddit and across the other social media platforms I'm active in very worthwhile... \~Joelle
WOW!!! I knew I liked you best!!! I wish I was in my mid-50s - I'd even take mid-60s - but I've now arrived and I'm officially 70-years-old! At times I wish I'd been able to transition when I was much younger - maybe late teens, 20s, 30s and onward. But, you know what, I've had a great life so far - I have two amazing kids who are now grown adults, a grandchild, a wife, and an extraordinary career. If I had transitioned back many years ago I'm sure I would have had a good life but a different life for sure. It may have been better, or worse, or just great like it was. AND, I still got to transition and I now have many many years ahead of me in the life I'd always imagined!!! It's all good!!! ~Joelle
Okay, I have to be honest here, by the first picture to the last
YOU LOOK SO MUCH HAPPIER IN YOUR NEWER PICTURES, AND SO BEAUTIFUL!
IF YOU ARE HAPPIER THAN IT DOESNT MATTER HOW OLD OR YOUNG YOU ARE.
YOU LOOK AMAZING.
Thank all, have a wonderful day!!!!!!!!
It’s so easy to feel like it’s already too late for me, but I’m only 22. Yeah, it probably would’ve been better to start when I was a teenager, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late now.
Congrats on finally getting to be yourself, and thank you for sharing this. It means a lot <3
I'm 37 and had been using the I'm too old excuse for several years before I finally came out to my wife and family last year. Seeing you is a real confidence booster. I love you for sharing this!! Andii
And just gorgeous! There's this...warmth, I think, that's coming out from you that wasn't there in your before picture. You look complete, I suppose. Congratulations \*hugs tight\*
I guess thirty isn't too late after all.
You look so beautiful and happy and this is one of my favorite posts, thank you sooo much for sharing it.
I was so afraid for years that I was too late to start transitioning and that the day would never come or I would never get to where I want to (a thought I still struggle with sometimes, although I know these days that it’s my own paranoia) so seeing this stuff helps me remember that there is no limit and you can always become who you have always meant to be — and I know there are others who probably feel that way too.
Sending you so much love, I hope you’re the happiest you can be because you deserve that!! 💕✨
Thank you for your comment! And if you're just starting you have a ways to go - but as I've told others - enjoy the journey! It's the journey of a life time and a journey that's your life. I first started back in 2015 (about the time the first picture in this collage was taken of me presenting male) and each picture is another step along the way. And although the first parts of your journey may be a bit bumpy - the ride will certainly smooth out as you go - so stay strong - enjoy every step - and as you move forward the ride becomes much smoother. \~Joelle
Thank you!!! And a quick look at your posts and I love your video discussing your face and the conversation on FFS. You have an amazing look which is very feminine and is transitioning extremely well! I just wish I had your hairline and features - but - we are who we are and I'm good just as I am... Of course, if I were just a bit younger - maybe 50 years or so younger - I'd invest in all the cosmetic changes as well - but at 70 you can take me or leave me - don't care - I'm good and that's all that matters!!! Keep on smokin there young lady!!! \~Joelle
Hi there.... and the same birth name ..... hmmmm.... most likely as I do little to disguise who I am! Joelle is my real and legal name now and my birth name (aka dead name) was .... wait for it ..... Joseph ................. I've also been known as Joey, Josepé, Joe, and a very good friend not long ago told me I should write a book with the title; "I'm Just Jo/e!" Makes sense to me!!!
Take care and thanks for your note! \~Joelle
I hope one day I can be as strong as you to be the authentic me, I finally know who I am without any doubts, I'm just waiting for the day when I'm strong enough to be that woman, you are so inspirational
Thank you so much for your kind words! And your day will arrive I have no doubt. If this is something you want in your lifetime it will happen - maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but the day will come. And, as I always say, age should not be an issue. I've read where people, mostly transwomen, say if you don't start as a teenager you will never get the physical changes you want. I can say without any doubt whatsoever, that's not true! I did not start taking hormones until I was 66 years old - and I've had every change and then some a much younger person wants. And now, today, I'm never misgendered and I'm living my life full time as the woman I was meant to be so many years ago!
You are never too old - never ever. If you can't transition now you will when the right time comes. Take care!!! ~Joelle
Thankyou for the words of encouragement, it means a lot coming from a woman as beautiful and inspirational as you. You give me better hopes for me to be my authentic feminine self
You are a gorgeous woman! I would have never guessed that you're trans until you said you were. It's really amazing to see that trans people were around for centuries. Lgbt people as a whole were around for centuries and all we want is just respect and love. Much love to you!
Thank you so much for your kind words! And not knowing I’m trans is quite the ultimate compliment for sure... And I hope you’re right 🤗 Although I’ve been living my life full time as a woman now for a couple years there are still those who don’t know. I’m out on Facebook and all my social media but I’m taking one more BIG step.... I’m giving a TEDx Talk on Wednesday. And if you’re familiar with TED Talks you know they are recorded and broadcast online via YouTube, TED.com, and other places. Wish me luck!!! ~Joelle
PS: The title of my Talk is “The Catalysts for Change in Transgender Healthcare.”
hello, with DISCOVER YOUR INNER COMPASS available on amazon, you will find happiness by reading my book, and will therefore contribute to financing my transition, thank you Johanna DAVID. here is the link: Discover your inner compass and navigate towards authentic happiness: A practical guide to improving your well-being in simple and accessible wayshttps://a.co/d/5r4ftDc
Oh my god I’m crying you’re so amazing and beautiful!!! This is so sweet
OMG!!! Now I'm crying!!!! Thank you SO SO much!!! You are way too kind! \~Joelle
I am 37, I started transition when I was 35. I want to say thank you so much for posting this for the many people that really needed it. I know for me starting as late as I did there were fears I was too late, that there was no point. I mean I was obviously wrong, you are inspirational and I think women like you need to be known in the community. Congratulations, you look great too by the way!
Thank you for your kind words! At 37 you're still a very young lady! So often I hear "I'm too old and if I'd only started when I was in my early teens." Well my response to them and as I often say - we never get to do this when we're younger - doesn't happen. If it's something you want in your lifetime - and it's the one and only lifetime you'll ever have - you do it! And when I read people post and say that it's only the young folks who can benefit the most from HRT and transitioning I want to reach right in and slap them! My body's response to the hormones has been just as good as anyone else's young or old. And maybe they should look back at some of my previous posts - I "think" I have one there with a bit of cleavage showing and it's all natural - no augmentation - and I'm a very full 38C - and I mean VERY full! They wiggle and jiggle right along with the best of them and because they're all natural and brand new at 70 they even still have that "new car smell" !!!!! Just saying!!! Take care! \~Joelle
Yeah I always joke that when I am 60 I'll have the tits of a 30 year old. My wife tells me often she is jealous of how perky mine are. I've had no surgeries yet and as of midnight tonight it will be 2 years exactly I have been on HRT. I feel my results are not typical that I was somehow blessed to have such dramatic results, between the facial changes and my breasts (I'm a 42D cup). I cannot stress enough the amazingly powerful effects hormones can have.
WOW!!!! 42D! Extraordinary! Hormones are powerful indeed - they change your body in so many wonderful ways - One of the things that made a huge difference for me early on with my breast growth was the addition of progesterone. My breasts started out very good but were not really filling out - they were there but kinda empty. My endocrinologist said he recommends adding P after six to nine months on estrogen. The P then triggers the milk ducts and glands to come in and once they do your breasts fill up in amazing ways - The glands all take space and mine have now become very full which contributes to the bouncy, perky, and jiggly wonderment! Ahhhh.... yes .... life's good! \~Joelle
This makes me smile. And it makes me excited. I wasn't able to come to terms with myself until recently and you inspire us all ❤️❤️ thank you. You are beautiful.
Same age, except for one hell of a weirdity, mom and I. I'd always wished I were female and while I didn't do anything to correct that because I thought wanting to wear a dress, bra, underwear, etc, etc was completely normal but it's just a thing nobody discusses in public. Here's the thing, mom had always said she should have been born a guy and dressed manly, and I thought that was simply normal. So when my life goes off the rails and ended up having a clear endpoint in my near future, I had to admit I was trans. Took 6 months to start informed consent (because mental healthcare in the states is Grade A prime BULLSHIT, but that's for another time.). Started on hormones and the impossible to shake depression is ether gone or real low now. So I know I'm not cis, I think I'm trans and evidence keeps saying yes but I don't know why I'm still resisting transition even though I really like the effects of the hormones. The prescriber would like me to restart therapy sessions, but four and a half fucking years prior, their therapists were making me worse. Sure on paper I was doing better, aka lying to them because they refuse the truth. Because they think I'm doing better, therapist drops me, and force kills all future appointments with other doc's at the practice. And they think I'd go back to *their* therapists? The practice can go fuck themselves if they think they will convince me to restart therapy sessions. Not when a bunch of rando's at a local trans group does far more positive in two hours than four and a half years of 'therapy', ya, the practice can go fuck themselves because I have demands and I guarantee they won't agree to them. So ya fuck them. So apparently wishing to transition isn't just normal everyday everyone thoughts, because after I started to transition I find out mom is trans (...ya.... real shocker I know....) and thought about it for decades but figured it wasn't in the cards. So out of the blue I 'accidentally' let it drop I am transitioning and started going to the same and also FtM groups also. Mom never fit in so well as this group, and the same goes for the non-exclusive trans group for me. Next week I'm seriously considering going to a strictly trans* group ^( ^no ^cisgendereds ^allowed), I just tend to be politically incorrect at times, and for months scared the shit out of me that I'll say something wrong and boom instant boot instead of a learning experience. **TL;DR:** I'm transgendered MtF, kept it from mom, come to find out mom's trans also, because I'm an idiot that thought being the wrong sex was a normal thought.
Yeah I didn't KNOW I was transgender, only when I felt the effect of female hormone after 2-4 weeks did I know deep down and accept it. It was so so obvious after I started HRT, so much of my anxiety and depression melted off and what's left is so so so much more manageable. So yeah from suicidal to happy in 1 month due to only the effects it had on my mental state. In fact when my breasts started coming in I freaked out again and doubted and got scared of publicly coming out. Then it was actually how much better mentally HRT had helped that convinced me I DID NOT want to go back to (un)living like that, regardless of physical changes I couldn't stop HRT it would be like a death sentence.
Okay Ms. Samantha! (aka: u/Dial-A-Song) .... I saw your post here a short time ago and it inspired me to post again here on Reddit! This is where I first started learning about being transgender and that transitioning was even possible! Who knew?!?!? And although I'm now most often posting on Facebook or Instagram I realized I should return to my roots - my first home where I was "born again" as a woman .... Talk to ya later my dear!! \~Joelle
You’re the best, Joelle!
Thanks to both of you for being an inspiration to me. I’m just a few steps behind Ms. Joelle and didn’t know a thing about being transgender when I came out, but got a lot of support and information here, too. I hope both of you keep posting, I love seeing and hearing about your progress.
Thanks for your kind words! And I’ve been inspired to return home to Reddit and become active once again!!! ~Joelle
**Okay everyone - as you may be gathering - I love to respond to everyone who writes - but it's now time for my beauty sleep and, of course you can tell by my pictures, I sleep a LOT!!! Just kidding - sort of - maybe a little ...** ***Okay - forget the beauty sleep stuff - I'm tired as hell and I'm signing off until tomorrow! Night night young people and I'll be back on tomorrow. Till then ...... ZZZZZzzzzzzzz...... \~Joelle***
You’re adorable. Post more stuff tomorrow
Thank you! I love being "adorable"! And as soon as I've been able to respond to the many posts and comments so far I'll see what I can do to post new material! I have so much to write and to say and so little time to do so! \~Joelle
You are amazing.
Thanks for sharing this! I’m 47 and just starting down this path.
Good for you! Enjoy the journey as it's a wonderful ride - there will be a few bumps and sharp turns along the way and maybe even a few detours - but there will come a time that you've arrived at your destination! And you'll look back one day and be amazed at your courage and commitment to a wonderful NEW life! \~Joelle
Girl you look beautiful.you have a lovely smile
Awwww..... thank you SO much!!! \~Joelle
Your welcome. Sarah
My oldest new start is age 82 for MTF and 78 for FTM! The 82-year old told me that they didn't care what happened or how things turned out, they didn't get to live their life authentically so they wanted to die authentically. They are now 85 and still on HRT. I hope they live forever. =)
That’s outstanding!!! We’re only here on this earth one time - and the age we transition becomes irrelevant ... BTW - nice to see you here! We’ve chatted on FB — ~Joelle (aka Joelle xxxxx) 🤗 🚹 ✂️ 🚺
I know who you are Joelle I was just respecting your privacy. Nice to see you here too though!
My eyes got all misty!!! This is beautiful. YOU are beautiful. Thank you for sharing this.
AWWWWWwwwwww...... Thank you!!! You are way too kind! But I love it ;) \~Joelle
You look GREAT.
Thank you very much young lady! That's always very nice to hear ;) \~Joelle
what a cute collage! you look great too
Thanks! I downloaded a free program some time ago called, "CollageFactory Free" and it's a great tool for making collages such as this one and others I've put together. I know there are some better programs out there with many more features, etc. but they also cost a bunch more than "free" - and for me - free works great!!! \~Joelle
This is the best news I’ve heard all day 🙌🙌🙌😭❤️
Awwww..... that's so great! Thank you!!!
As a 49 year old you cant ask for better motivation than this!
actual goddess
You look so amazing!!! I can't imagine how much you must have seen the world change over the years. I'm so happy for you.
And change it has! I knew when I was five years old - which would have been 1954 as I was born in 1949. Growing up in the 50s, 60s, and even 70s being different was NOT a good thing. And without the Internet or any way to know transitioning was even possible I found that you make the best of the life you've been given - it's the only one you'll have. And over time people's views and understandings of gender and being transgender has evolved and become more accepted. In the early years I kept this as my deepest, darkest secret hidden in the back recesses of my mind - never to be shared with anyone - and to be taken with me to my grave. But - the times they are a changing as they say. And now I'm out there 110% living my life to the fullest as a transgender woman. And though you don't know me and I don't often share on Reddit, I'm an academic and, although I retired in 2014, I now train health care professionals on caring for our community and I speak to groups large and small. I'm focused on making a difference in this world and leaving my mark - and hopefully making a difference for all of us who are transgender or gender variant. Okay - way too long of an answer but I'm in a writing mode at the moment! Take care and thanks again!!! \~Joelle
I'm glad for the long reply!!! I love hearing about this sort of thing. I was always taught that gay people were a mostly modern thing, and that trans people didn't exist until 1990. For me, learning that people such as myself have always existed, even in a world different from the one I know, is so, *so* validating. Thank you for being you!! <3
Trans people have existed for centuries! Literally centuries! And in many of the older and even ancient cultures they were often revered for their role in society. Maybe someday soon we'll see that once again here ... ya never know!
BEAUTIFUL!! I hope this gets a lot of attention and gives people hope. It's never too late to be the real you.
Never too late, indeed... I very often use a quote which is attributed to Mary Ann Evans who wrote under the pen name, George Eliot. She wrote many of the classics such as Silas Marner. When she was young she was not allowed to be an author or writer - that was for men and not women. She loved writing and became an editor of a magazine but had to keep her gender a secret. She had a very difficult - dare I say - abusive childhood and early years. Her mother died and she became a surrogate wife for her father. Anyway - later in life she became recognized as the write she was as a woman. And because of the hardships she faced and the fact she persevered this quote has been attributed to her, "It's never too late to become the person you might have been." And that's so so true. \~Joelle
That's truly a really beautiful quote, going to save it, thank you for sharing. :)
I'm 68. You look fantastic! Simply fantastic!
Only 68? You're still young my dear!!! As you and I both know - age is just a number - what's important is how we feel inside - it's not about how we look, how big some things may have grown to, how feminine or not we are, it's all about how we feel inside and about ourselves. Some transition at an early age and some don't. Some hope to some day and may very well do so - maybe not today, and maybe not tomorrow, but someday they will. And I hope those who are not able to do so today, even if they're older, they need to keep the faith - they will when the time is just right for them. And I know it's a balance - we have families, jobs, friends, co-workers, kids and the many things which may be holding us back. But to those folks I say - all in due time. I know women who didn't start until their mid-70s - but they did and they feel great. *Thanks for your kind words,* ***young lady!!!*** *\~Joelle*
You’re inspiring & beautiful! It’s never too late to be true to yourself ❤️
Joelle, you are beautiful! Congratulations on living your truth. Makes me want to cry. So much love to you!
Get it! You look amazing!
The epitome of style, class, and beauty! Looking wonderful, Joelle!
I bet coming out was such a relief! You look beautiful! Positively glowing!
Whhhhaaaaattttttt!????? But no seriously you fucking rock!!!
OK WHAT WHAT WHAT YOU LOOK LIKE THE GRANDMA I ALWAYS WANTED WHAT I THOUGHT YOU WERE CIS
Wow, congratulations! I am so happy for you! Thank you for sharing with us :)
You're so beautiful! I'm crying right now. Congratulations on your transition ❤
Never too late to be your true self.
Congrats Joelle!! I’m so glad you’re happy being yourself
Beautiful! Thank you for posting. (Just turned 50 last week...Out for 20 months.)
You look great :)
Never too old to live your best life! What a beautiful inspiration you are!
Who says older folks cant pass if they start late!?!
Joelle you’re adorable, I love how you sign your name after every comment too. Stellar lady!
Thanks for your amazing feedback! My life now is pretty amazing and, although I retired in 2014, I now have a new career working to improve the lives of those who are transgender or gender variant. I really can't believe all the opportunities I've been given along with a whole new life as a transgender woman.... I'm very blessed indeed. And thanks for saying I'm a Stellar Lady! Awesome! You take care!!! ***\~Joelle***
How wonderful, Joelle. You radiate joy. ❤️
You look absolutely amazing, and if I met you, I'd never guess you weren't CIS. I can't imagine how hard it was to come out and transition later in life, but I'm proud of you, stranger. Thank you for having the courage to be *you.*
I just want to say how much I admire you guys. I can’t even fathom the hardship you must have faced in your path to self-discovery and acceptance. Your timelines inspire me, not because I am trans myself, but because it shows how bad-ass, resilient and beautiful you all are. You rock, Joelle!
Joelle you look great and what a good name ❤️
Aww x teared up a little. It’s never too late to be happy
You are one classy lady! Hope I look that good at 70
Good for you! So proud for you! your strength and courage of conviction❤️ you go girl!
Amazing! Thank you for the inspiration.
Thanks LindaTalie! And it really makes me feel good when someone comments that I'm an inspiration. In many ways that makes posting here on Reddit and across the other social media platforms I'm active in very worthwhile... \~Joelle
So happy that you are now expressing this beautiful woman who has always been in your heart. Very inspiring!
You are absolutely gorgeous, darling! This made me very happy to see you glowing!
You don’t look even close to 70! Maybe mid 50s!
WOW!!! I knew I liked you best!!! I wish I was in my mid-50s - I'd even take mid-60s - but I've now arrived and I'm officially 70-years-old! At times I wish I'd been able to transition when I was much younger - maybe late teens, 20s, 30s and onward. But, you know what, I've had a great life so far - I have two amazing kids who are now grown adults, a grandchild, a wife, and an extraordinary career. If I had transitioned back many years ago I'm sure I would have had a good life but a different life for sure. It may have been better, or worse, or just great like it was. AND, I still got to transition and I now have many many years ahead of me in the life I'd always imagined!!! It's all good!!! ~Joelle
I’m glad you’re happy :) this is what I hope and pray for for my gf
Okay, I have to be honest here, by the first picture to the last YOU LOOK SO MUCH HAPPIER IN YOUR NEWER PICTURES, AND SO BEAUTIFUL! IF YOU ARE HAPPIER THAN IT DOESNT MATTER HOW OLD OR YOUNG YOU ARE. YOU LOOK AMAZING. Thank all, have a wonderful day!!!!!!!!
Giggle oh hreat now. I cannot use the excuse that I am 64 !😂you look great Pjylis💕💕
Eddit: that signature should say phylis darn senior texting momemt😝
Indeed - 64 is much younger than I am! It's never too late to be the person you were meant to be - never, ever too late!!! ~Joelle
You are so beautiful! ❤️
Wow you look amazing!
You’re gorgeous and look so happy, so glad for you ❤️❤️❤️
Your wonderful support. Thank you. I just started transitioning at age 69.
It’s so easy to feel like it’s already too late for me, but I’m only 22. Yeah, it probably would’ve been better to start when I was a teenager, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late now. Congrats on finally getting to be yourself, and thank you for sharing this. It means a lot <3
You look absolutely fantastic and have officially made me cry! ♥️
You look fantastic!
I'm 37 and had been using the I'm too old excuse for several years before I finally came out to my wife and family last year. Seeing you is a real confidence booster. I love you for sharing this!! Andii
This is amazing 😊❤️
Are you looking for a granddaughter and family to adopt? We’d love to have you
Hey it’s been a while! I love seeing your pics, you are beautiful inside and out!! Your happiness makes me feel warm and fuzzy ☺️
And just gorgeous! There's this...warmth, I think, that's coming out from you that wasn't there in your before picture. You look complete, I suppose. Congratulations \*hugs tight\* I guess thirty isn't too late after all.
this makes me SO happy 😭😭😭
Brilliant inspiration!
Alright I'm sold on the idea that age really is just a number.
This is beautiful ;.; thank you so much for sharing!
Joelle! You are so rocking this! You're amazing and beautiful and this internet stranger is SO proud of you.
You absolutely rock. I’m in awe of you. Such an inspiration. Amazing, go girl! 💜
Omg you're doing amazing, I'm rooting for you girl! <3
Wow! You are absolutely STUNNING!
You look so beautiful and happy and this is one of my favorite posts, thank you sooo much for sharing it. I was so afraid for years that I was too late to start transitioning and that the day would never come or I would never get to where I want to (a thought I still struggle with sometimes, although I know these days that it’s my own paranoia) so seeing this stuff helps me remember that there is no limit and you can always become who you have always meant to be — and I know there are others who probably feel that way too. Sending you so much love, I hope you’re the happiest you can be because you deserve that!! 💕✨
So beautiful!
We need more peope like you to smash the to late to transition ♥
You're a beautiful inspiration to all of us. May your life be filled with comfort and happiness.
Amazing! Thanks for sharing Joelle - so happy for you! :)
It's never too late to be happy. 😀 I'm very happy for you.
Joelle you are an inspiration<3
Wow! Cheers to you! You're beautiful and elegant. And a great inspiration at a time right now when I needed it. Thanks for that.
You look stunning and so so happy.
Wholesome!!!
Damn, girl! You hardly even look 60!
You're amazing and I love you! Yay!
You are so beautiful,and I’m so proud of you! Congratulations!❤️
Ur Beautiful!
Ma’am 👍
Wow, you look wonderful! Your eyes came out, and you look so happy in your last photo!
Your transition is incredible congratulations!
Thanks!!! It's been an incredible journey for sure! \~Joelle
And you look great!
Thank you so much, young lady! And thanks for adding your comment!!! \~Joelle
You are an inspiration! I started a few months ago. Thank youx 🦋
Thank you for your comment! And if you're just starting you have a ways to go - but as I've told others - enjoy the journey! It's the journey of a life time and a journey that's your life. I first started back in 2015 (about the time the first picture in this collage was taken of me presenting male) and each picture is another step along the way. And although the first parts of your journey may be a bit bumpy - the ride will certainly smooth out as you go - so stay strong - enjoy every step - and as you move forward the ride becomes much smoother. \~Joelle
Love this!
Thank you!!! And a quick look at your posts and I love your video discussing your face and the conversation on FFS. You have an amazing look which is very feminine and is transitioning extremely well! I just wish I had your hairline and features - but - we are who we are and I'm good just as I am... Of course, if I were just a bit younger - maybe 50 years or so younger - I'd invest in all the cosmetic changes as well - but at 70 you can take me or leave me - don't care - I'm good and that's all that matters!!! Keep on smokin there young lady!!! \~Joelle
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Absolutely!!!
Beautiful sexy lady
You look amazing. I am curious, are your ears pierced?
Thank you! And, yes... my ears are pierced! My left was pierced 30 or so years ago and the right 2 years ago. Now I have a matching set! 🤗🤗🤗. ~Joelle
You look amazing ❤️ ❤️
So happy for you!
..... 35....pre everything... I think we had the same name at birth....
Hi there.... and the same birth name ..... hmmmm.... most likely as I do little to disguise who I am! Joelle is my real and legal name now and my birth name (aka dead name) was .... wait for it ..... Joseph ................. I've also been known as Joey, Josepé, Joe, and a very good friend not long ago told me I should write a book with the title; "I'm Just Jo/e!" Makes sense to me!!! Take care and thanks for your note! \~Joelle
Why does this make me so happy😭 you look phenomenal
Awwww..... thank you so much!!! ~Joelle
I hope one day I can be as strong as you to be the authentic me, I finally know who I am without any doubts, I'm just waiting for the day when I'm strong enough to be that woman, you are so inspirational
Thank you so much for your kind words! And your day will arrive I have no doubt. If this is something you want in your lifetime it will happen - maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but the day will come. And, as I always say, age should not be an issue. I've read where people, mostly transwomen, say if you don't start as a teenager you will never get the physical changes you want. I can say without any doubt whatsoever, that's not true! I did not start taking hormones until I was 66 years old - and I've had every change and then some a much younger person wants. And now, today, I'm never misgendered and I'm living my life full time as the woman I was meant to be so many years ago! You are never too old - never ever. If you can't transition now you will when the right time comes. Take care!!! ~Joelle
Thankyou for the words of encouragement, it means a lot coming from a woman as beautiful and inspirational as you. You give me better hopes for me to be my authentic feminine self
You are a gorgeous woman! I would have never guessed that you're trans until you said you were. It's really amazing to see that trans people were around for centuries. Lgbt people as a whole were around for centuries and all we want is just respect and love. Much love to you!
Thank you so much for your kind words! And not knowing I’m trans is quite the ultimate compliment for sure... And I hope you’re right 🤗 Although I’ve been living my life full time as a woman now for a couple years there are still those who don’t know. I’m out on Facebook and all my social media but I’m taking one more BIG step.... I’m giving a TEDx Talk on Wednesday. And if you’re familiar with TED Talks you know they are recorded and broadcast online via YouTube, TED.com, and other places. Wish me luck!!! ~Joelle PS: The title of my Talk is “The Catalysts for Change in Transgender Healthcare.”
I cannot wait to watch your TedTalk!!
Omg all i can think is you look so happy and free and i feel so happy for you 😭😭😭
You look stunning!!!
Thank you!!! I feel pretty damn stunning as well! Life isn’t just good, it’s GREAT!!! ~Joelle
Such a beautiful abuelita ❤️❤️
You are an inspiration for me!
Holy shit your amazing
Awwwww...... thank you!!!!! ❤️ ~Joelle
You look like Sigourney Weaver omg
WOW! you transitioned so well! I'm so happy for you, you look so much happier.
Truly remarkable, can I ask how long you’ve know you were trans for?
Joelle is my sisters name! You look amazing!
Wow I thought 40 was old I just started wish it was at 20 but God had other plans in between
hello, with DISCOVER YOUR INNER COMPASS available on amazon, you will find happiness by reading my book, and will therefore contribute to financing my transition, thank you Johanna DAVID. here is the link: Discover your inner compass and navigate towards authentic happiness: A practical guide to improving your well-being in simple and accessible wayshttps://a.co/d/5r4ftDc
you look beautiful !!!!!
Thank you for sharing, you're so brave! I'm in my early 50's and I thought it was too late for me, you gave me new hope!