A Trans Person’s Guide to Job-Hunting, Insurance, and Retirement

Leslie McMurray’s retirement account didn’t survive her transition from male to female. The 58-year-old had to spend almost $70,000 on medical treatment, including electrolysis to remove hair from her face. “It’s hideously painful,” she says, “and costs as much as a Hyundai.” An additional $100,000 went to living expenses, when her transition abruptly ended a 35-year career in radio and TV. She finally found a nonprofit job paying less than a fifth of her old salary. McMurray also lost a 33-year marriage, a 4,500-square-foot house in the Dallas suburbs, and most of her possessions.

“And,” she adds, “I’ve never been happier.”