From what little I know about the science behind all this, transgendered people have the brain chemistry of the gender they think they are. Conversely, homosexuals have the brain chemistry of their physical gender.

Mike most likely truly is Christine in his/her brain, just not in the plumbing.

James, my understanding is that you are right, and I have to admit to being a little insensitive here. We had a similar case down here in Florida with a city manager. The guy/girl/whatever left his family - which included a 13 year-old boy who is now going through "only God knows what" kind of grief and torment over it, and will surely be affected by it for the rest of his life.

So I guess my being judgmental and my prejudice is showing here, but I can't help but think people should set aside there obsession with their "self discovery" and their obsessions with their sexuality and just get on with the more important things of life.

I feel bad for saying it but it just seems icky and tacky. On the other hand, maybe I'm the one being tacky.

Hi Richard - no, not being tacky. It's confusing, and heartbreaking for the family.

My son, nearly 6, is taking it well. Daddy started turning into a girl nearly 2 years ago now - rare medical condition, only 1 in a thousand transsexuals have it. Yes, it wasn't voluntary, just very welcome. A heck of a way for a 25 year marriage to end though.

I didn't have Christine's courage. I was going to keep my secret safe, and die of a stress related illness before 55, as so many do. Sure, my boy would be orphaned, but hey, no-one gets embarrassed, and that's what's important, right?

Please have a look at http://cs.anu.edu.au/~Zoe.Brain/is_ts_hr.html

Including the links. By the time you reach 48, it's transition or die. Often suicide, but heart attack and stroke are both contenders too. Mike had a heart attack last year. Christine wants to live.