A love letter to my transgender child

International Transgender Day of Remembrance, November 20, isn’t just about raising awareness. It’s about the strength, courage, and uniqueness of every person around us. It’s a reminder that everyone deserves to be honored for who they truly are.

Today, we’re sharing something special: a heartfelt letter written by Maria Chacon, Senior Administrative Assistant in Novartis. Maria is the mother of a transgender child. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s all about unconditional love. This letter is a beautiful reminder of how powerful it is when loved ones step up, show up, love you for you, and learn the power of being courageous and open.

Through her words, Maria not only celebrates the love for her child but also reflects on what so many parents, siblings, colleagues and friends could learn: being there for each other is the start of making each other extraordinary.

As we honor the transgender community during the month of November, let this letter inspire you to love louder and stand taller for the people you care about.

“My beloved child,

From the moment I dreamed of having you, I knew my life would change in the most extraordinary way. When you were born, the joy and euphoria I felt were indescribable. I remember the little moments, teaching you how to snap your fingers and tie your shoes, and the excitement of buying your first pair of tap shoes. I can still see you tapping away on those wide steps by the door, turning them into your own little stage.

Watching you grow has been an incredible journey. When you came out at 10 and a half, your courage and self-discovery inspired me in ways I never expected. You’ve taught me so much, from the importance of using the right pronouns, to learning about the many different LGBTQIA+ flags and the identities they represent. Most importantly, you’ve shown me how to embrace others with empathy and understanding. Your bravery gave me the strength to embrace who I am as well. Because of you, I had the courage to share that I, too, am part of the LGBTQ community, and I will always be grateful for that boost to be my authentic self.

Your dedication to music and the Dover High School Marching Band amazes me. Learning to play four instruments, bassoon, guitar, baritone, and marimba, shows such incredible talent, passion and hard work. I’ll never forget that car ride when I asked what instrument you thought I’d play, and you said the clarinet, picturing me as perfect for its sound. You showed me a different way to see myself, and it made me smile.

You once told me that when you grow up, you want to adopt teenagers to give them the love they may not have received. That speaks to the kindness and compassion you carry in your heart. You continue to teach me new ways to see the world, others, and even myself, and I’m forever grateful for that.

Thank you for your courage, for teaching me, and for showing me what it truly means to love and be yourself. I’m endlessly proud of you, and I can’t wait to see all the beautiful things you’ll accomplish in the future.

With all my love,

Your mama”

Maria Chacon, Senior Administrative Assistant, Hispanic/LatinX Network Employee Resource Group Chair, PRIDE Employee Resource Group member at Novartis in East Hanover and loving mother