Ermina Waters was born male, and named Paul. Married with four children, two years ago he realised that he wanted to live as a woman...

Even as a young child Ermina knew she was different. Brought up in a male dominated house, she enjoyed the company of girls and female pursuits.

Ermina is married and her wife was pretty shocked at first, but once she realised how important this is to Ermina's happiness she was very supportive.

Their children are 9, 13, 17 and 18. They saw Ermina dressed as a woman around the house and gradually got used to it. The move to 'dressing up' full-time was a gradual one.

Ermina has been living as a woman for a year and says its been wonderful. She is an ICT consultant, which means that she trains people in computers. Part of her job is to teach school children, and she says her employers, the children and the teachers have all been terrific. There are only around 5,000 transsexuals in the UK, so the chances are that Ermina is the only one many of the children have met. She feels a deep contentment in her new life.

Laura, Ermina's 13 year old was initially embarrassed and shocked by her father's transformation, but has got used to it. Her friends have been great. The boys at school have been a bit difficult, but she now gets asked 'How are your two mums'?

Ermina says the relationship with Laura has changed a bit: they go shopping together, and Laura helps Ermina choose clothes. As Laura says, the good thing about it is that she gets more clothes for herself. Her younger brother Thomas is completely unfazed by Ermina's transformation. He calls Ermina 'Dad', and enjoys creating a bit of a stir, shouting 'Dad!' at inopportune moments.

Useful Links:
The Beaumont Society
The world's largest transgender society
Yahoo Groups: Transsexuals UK
A site for transsexuals
Depend
Supporting the Families and Friends of Transsexuals