Meja Foss's Race Against Time

Season 1 Episode 2 | Sep 14, 2023
Rachel Fishwick, Phoebe du Maurier, Meja Foss

Transitioning can be a complex and challenging journey, but when that journey is embarked upon globally and rapidly, it adds a whole new layer of challenges and experiences. Our latest podcast episode features an inspiring conversation with Meja Foss, a trans woman who decided to take charge of her destiny, racing against time and borders to transition medically and surgically.

Meja's journey is an incredible testament to the resilience and determination of the trans community. As a successful serial entrepreneur, her path to transitioning was filled with obstacles and emotional strains, particularly in waiting for hormone replacement therapy. However, Meja remained resolute in her decision to embrace her true self.

She took us through her gender-affirming surgeries in Seoul and Istanbul, emphasising the importance of staying longer than recommended post-surgery to prevent complications. Her candid discussion of the unexpected side effects and her decision to embrace the results rather than chasing perfection provides a raw and realistic view into the world of gender affirmation surgeries.

A significant part of Meja's transition journey was the psychological and emotional impacts of these procedures. In particular, she opened up about how her bottom surgery eased her dysphoria, offering an insightful perspective on the emotional journey of transitioning.

As we delved deeper into her life, we explored the challenges she faced as a trans woman, from passing to contemplating the concept of a magic button to become cis. Meja's story doesn't end with her transition, she is also a successful woman, wife, and mother.

In our discussion, Meja stressed the importance of community support and representation for trans individuals. She recalled her struggles as an 11-year-old trying to get access to puberty blockers in the UK and how despite these challenges, she managed to build a successful life for herself.

Meja's story is a reminder that transitioning isn't just about the physical changes. It's about self-discovery, resilience, and navigating a world that is often unprepared to accept and understand the nuances of the trans experience. Her journey highlights the importance of having the courage to embrace who you are, even when faced with challenges.

Her journey, filled with determination and resilience, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others who might be navigating their own path of transitioning. As Meja aptly puts it, there's no right or wrong way to be trans. The most important thing is to seek community, believe in oneself, and remember that being trans is a part of the human experience.

In conclusion, Meja's journey is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of the trans community. Her story underscores the importance of visibility and representation, and her experiences serve as a beacon of hope for others in the trans community. We are privileged to have had her on our podcast and share her inspiring story with our listeners.