Came out as trans: A story of acceptance and loss
A transgender woman said that she spent decades secretly wishing she was her wife and only came out as trans after the unexpected passing of her partner. Cherylin Hall, 57, was born a man in England and realized this at a young age.
Hall, who was then known as Tony, lived in the closet for many years, eventually marrying Therese in the late 1980s. They were married for 30 years before Therese’s passing in 2019, which prompted Hall to accept her true identity as a trans woman finally.
In an interview with PA Real Life, Hall said, “I thought life was far too short.” My “eureka” moment was when I realized I just had to take the wheel. Photos show that Hall, who is now undergoing gender confirmation surgery, resembles her late wife, with blonde bobbed hair.
Hall said that as a young child, she lusted after her mother’s clothes and makeup, saying, “I used to watch my mother put on her makeup, wondering, “When can I do that?”.” I used to wear a beautiful bright pink tutu with flowers that Mom had every Friday.
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Facing societal hostility and finding acceptance within family
Despite facing hostility from some people, Hall’s kids have accepted her new identity, and she is transitioning. She said she is delaying dating until after her bottom surgery and is still determining her future romantic preferences.
Hall’s story is a reminder of the struggles that many trans individuals face in accepting and expressing their true selves. It also highlights the importance of acceptance and support from loved ones in coming out as trans.
