Kerry Whybrow has been taking hormone treatments to make the change from male to female since January 2006. Over the forthcoming year, she will be writing a diary for BBC Norfolk and sharing the highs and lows as she gets closer towards her dream of becoming a woman.  | | Kerry at home feeding her animals |
The latest diary entry will always be posted first, you can read back through her story by following the links: 7 July, 2006Hello - here's just a few new diary notes to share. Mid-June saw me getting into gear for the Royal Norfolk Show. I had four alpacas entered, so a trailer had to be prepared, halters sorted out and care for my llama. I was going to take them to the show, but as they are not halter trained yet, the thought of two loose llamas running around the show ground is the stuff of nightmares and mayhem! They stayed at a friend's farm. The alpacas took 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place in their class. I was very proud of them. I also did the alpaca show ring commentary and I'm pleased to say it was well received. While at the show a lady came and talked to me about my family name. She could be a distant relative. She told me she's been following my story on Radio Norfolk so I now have to do some family research for her. Photo shootOn Tuesday 4 July, I had a professional photographer from London visit to do a photo shoot.  | | Kerry becomes a magazine cover girl |
It's for a feature in the September/October issue of Balance, a magazine by Diabetes UK, which looks at the story of my gender change. They may use a photo for the front cover of the magazine. Who knows - maybe page three next! But more likely in a horror magazine. It was a fantastic experience being on the receiving end, and very daunting, but the photographer did his best to put me at my ease. I had to use several changes of outfit and posing with animals is very stressful. In the trade they say never work with animals or children, how true it proved to be. Do I want to see the results? Yes, in some ways - but in others no. A busy month aheadThe hormones are kicking in heavily now. Skin change is noticeable, as is my bust development. My moods can be mercurial, but I've just had my annual diabetes MOT and passed with flying colours. July sees a busy medical time for me with visits to the ENT specialist and in August another visit to the gender consultant. As time passes my confidence and determination grows to carry on and complete my journey into womanhood. I saw the other day an acquaintance who has just had the re-alignment operation. I can only describe the expression on her face as that of a newly and happily pregnant woman ie. fulfilled contentment. It's a state I hope to ultimately achieve - yet I know my journey is still fraught with pain and pitfalls. I must publicly thank the media, especially BBC Radio Norfolk and listeners for their faith and support. I do not share publicly my story to be self-grandiloquent, but in the sincere hope it may help others and eradicate bigotry. The plus side for me is 'a trouble shared is a troubled halved' - so easier to bear. I did have hair extensions done a few weeks back, but now have them removed as I was beginning to look like Ozzy Osborne's twin brother! So it is back to wigs for the time being. My own is growing - but it's ultra fine and wispy. Regards, Kerry - Balance cover shoot image by Steve Hickey
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