“I Was Born With Male and Female Parts” | Listen Up | ABC Science

Big thanks to Stephanie for sharing her story.

#ListenUp #ABCScience #Intersex
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[hsugraduation]

No one should ever be humiliated over a birth defect.

[almariekuit]

Awww. It breaks my heart that anyone could be that mean. You're beautiful and brave. Thank you. ❤

[alanb]

Thank you sister, for sharing. I was a DES baby and had a surgery on my testes when I entered puberty which resulted in the doctors finding that I had non functioning but fully developed female reproductive organs, which they removed after a fight broke out between my pediatrician and the urologist as to whether I should be assigned female or male gender. I spent years on hormones to " keep him from developing genital cancer". It didn't work. I also developed gynacomastia and have to have regular mamograms. I learned to live with being myself after years of rejection, physical pain and humiliation and the horrors of well meaning but knife happy urologists and endocrinologists. Be strong, stay strong. You inspired me to write about my condition for the first time ever. Thank you.

[timpsonsampson]

Nothing wrong in being born intersex, but what is wrong is doctors choosing what sex you should be by performing surgery on a child that is under the age of consent

[morwaengmotswasele]

"it is normal to be different" is such a powerful statement and opens a new reality of human interaction. Thank you for this reality check❤

[heisdeadjim]

It has been my honour to have known Steph for several years now.

She is my inspiration

[sarahmacintosh]

Thank you, Stephanie. Education and exposure is how we reduce stigma, so I really appreciate you sharing your story 😊

[wdwerker]

I think schools should be required to address bullying and not sweep it under the rug. Bullies should be made to understand the repercussions of their actions and their parents too! If the parents had to pay therapy bills might be a good start, for their kids as well as their victims. Intersex people should have advocates and protections from birth. Parents should be advised of the consequences by intersex people who have grown up with the aftermath of doctor’s recommendations. These children should be protected from religious pressures too.

[BenSussmanpro]

I don’t know how this story ended up in my feed, but I watched it and am really impressed by how she dealt with her situation with apparent grace, maturity & humor, though I’m sure it’s been difficult. I think any friend or suitor would be lucky to have her.

[anuad]

Primary schoolers and teenagers can be very toxic. It's so sad 😢 for many people school brings horrific memories 😢

[quattron-]

Stephanie. I only see a very beautiful woman who has nothing to be ashamed of with a caring heart enough to love the world ❤

[bradthurkle]

Kids can be so cruel. Amazing story. Up lifting. Amazing young lady.

[mymatemartin]

"I Pick Me" is such a powerful affirmation and speaks volumes about the incredible person you are and journey you're on. Thankyou for sharing your story. I'm sure you've brought such relief to others by doing so and of course through your work in helping to set improved social policy.

You're a wonderful person.

[jodiemartine]

Hi. My name is Jodie. I am intersex too, although internally I am fully functional female and my appearance is female but externally my genitalia is mostly male. So I know what you're going through. You are NOT alone and you are loved, be strong

[MrPnew]

People can be so cruel, it brings a tear to your eye. Take care Stephanie, you are a beautiful young lady

[azajek]

"its normal to be different". Thats the best quote I have heard for a long time now ! ❤
Stephanie, you are pretty human being inside and outside!

[mixey]

Beautiful on the outside and she has a beautiful heart on the inside. Keep being that strong person that you are Stephanie

[esousa]

God Bless Stephanie, She is a brave person for being so open, and explaining her story to us HIGHEST RESPECT to her !!!

[sparkyswearsalot]

I really wish doctors would stop doing those surgeries on intersex babies. I know they think they're "fixing" them, but it seems to be becoming clear that it's unnecessary and the child should get to just grow up.

[lazzstreets]

She’s so brave for telling this to the world. I’m so glad you were able to find happiness. You’re incredible beautiful and sweet.