I am a retired ER/ICU nurse, author, lifelong learner, and am an ordained Elder in my church. Throughout my career and personal journey, I found myself asking questions about biology, faith, identity, and compassion that eventually became the foundation for my book, Following the Trail. This website, Trail Without a Map, grew out of that same journey and continues the conversation.
For much of my life, I felt like I was walking a trail without a map. Along the way I found trail markers, people, experiences, scientific discoveries, and moments of faith that helped me understand where I was and where I was going. This website is my way of leaving trail markers for others. I don’t expect everyone to walk the same path or reach the same conclusions, but if something I have learned helps someone else find their way a little sooner, then the journey has been worthwhile.
I was born transsexual and completed my transition in 1990. That experience shaped many of the questions I would spend the next several decades exploring, but it is only one part of my story. My years in emergency, critical care, and long term care, my Christian faith, and countless conversations with people from many different backgrounds have all contributed to the perspective shared throughout this website.
Whether you came here because you’re trying to understand yourself, someone you love, or simply because you’re curious, I hope you’ll find thoughtful discussions that encourage both compassion and critical thinking. My goal isn’t to tell you what you must believe. It’s to leave trail markers that may help you on your own journey.