I wore oversized clothes to hide my curves and bind my chest to appear more masculine. But now, I finally feel comfortable in my own skin,” she says.
Now, the trauma of potentially losing all the progress she has made is overwhelming. “The thought of going back to how things were before terrifies me,” she says.
She and other members of the LGBTQ Forum have been protesting outside the Nelson Mandela Bay clinic, demanding answers and access to treatment. They have also been reaching out to other organisations for support and assistance.
“We will not be silenced. We will fight for our rights and for the healthcare services we deserve,” says Xinana.
As the uncertainty looms, Mahote remains hopeful. “I believe that we will find a solution. We will not give up,” she says.
For now, she holds onto the hope that the clinic will reopen soon, and she can continue her journey towards self-discovery and self-acceptance.
And as she waits, she continues to embrace her evolving body and identity, knowing that she is not alone in this fight for access to gender-affirming healthcare services.
The recent funding cuts to trans health services have caused a major setback for individuals seeking gender-affirming care. One individual shared their experience of finally feeling comfortable going to the lady’s bathroom, only to now have to go back to being referred to as a guy due to not being able to afford the necessary drugs. This regression has brought back the trauma of being called names and having to use the men’s bathroom.
The Department of Health has not provided any indication of how they plan to address the gap in trans health services, leaving many in the community feeling uncertain about their future care. Without access to gender-affirming hormones, individuals are left in a vulnerable position, facing discrimination and harassment in public spaces.
Dr. De Vries, a healthcare provider, emphasizes the importance of ensuring the well-being of those in gender-affirming care. He suggests that creating a way for transgender and gender-diverse individuals to access hormones at government clinics could help alleviate the impact of the funding cuts. By prioritizing the needs of this community, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive healthcare system.
As we navigate these challenges, it is crucial for policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize the needs of transgender and gender-diverse individuals. By advocating for accessible and affordable healthcare options, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live authentically and without fear of discrimination. Let’s work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our community.
