This week I really wanted to focus on drafting something insightful and interesting for this final blog post. However, I decided that instead of putting yet another bit of unrealistic pressure on myself, I am going to give myself the gift of just sharing my truth. And yes – that truth is undoubtedly the most popular topic this semester: being terrified, exhausted, and hopeless all at once while attempting to maintain any level of output & functionality in pandemic times.
Continue readingAuthor: gatofrio
Mental Health Accessibility for the Trans Community
I have been conducting a qualitative research study survey as part of my writing intensive course surrounding navigating the healthcare system for mental health services as trans individuals.
Continue readingImmigration & the Cheeto Administration
cw: an image featuring trumps face
Existing as a queer and trans Pakistani immigrant under the Trump administration has been one of the most exhausting things I’ve gone through. I came to the US when I was only 10. Now, as a 27 year old, I still do not have citizenship and the rights and privileges that come with it. This has been directly due to the immigration policies made by USCIS under the command of the Trump Administration.
Continue readingQuarantine Body Blues: Top Surgery
TW: chest dysphoria, surgery
For as along as I can remember, I’ve always hated my chest. At age 12, I had B cups and by age 21, I had triple DDD. This became especially devastating as I gained a better understanding of my gender identity as a nonbinary individual in my mid twenties. To cope with the body dysphoria and feel somewhat more happy and connected to my body, I began using binders regularly. Being fat and binding is a special kind of torture, especially during humid Maryland summers, but the physical discomfort was always worth the confidence binding gave me.
Unruly Bodies 