Born To Be

2019, English, Garnet Rubio, USA,

Director: Tania Cypriano
Release Year: 2019

Synopsis:

Tania Cypriano's documentary Born to Be offers an intimate and powerful glimpse into the transformative world of gender-affirming healthcare at the Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery in New York City. With unprecedented access to the personal and professional life of Dr. Jess Ting, the film showcases how compassionate medical care can profoundly impact the lives of transgender and gender non-binary individuals.

 

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving landscape of transgender rights and medical care, Born to Be captures the groundbreaking efforts of Dr. Ting, who has dedicated his career to providing quality gender-affirming care. The film illustrates how Mount Sinai has become a beacon of hope for many, offering a range of surgical procedures that can help individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity. Dr. Ting’s journey from a renowned plastic surgeon to a pioneering gender-affirming specialist is a compelling narrative of personal and professional transformation. As he navigates the challenges and triumphs of his patients, viewers witness not just the medical procedures but also the emotional and psychological journeys that accompany them.

 

One of the film’s most poignant stories is that of Cashmere, a transgender woman from the Bronx. Now in her later years, Cashmere’s life is a testament to the struggles many in the transgender community face, particularly among marginalized groups. At just 16, she left home and was thrust into a world of survival, relying on black-market silicone injections to achieve the body she desired. These risky procedures, while intended to help her feel more like the woman she identified as, ultimately led to complications that necessitated corrective surgery. Under Dr. Ting’s care, Cashmere is seeking vaginoplasty to complete her transition and undo the damage of her earlier decisions. Her story underscores the harsh realities many transgender individuals encounter when accessing care and the lengths to which they often go to attain their identity.

 

In stark contrast to Cashmere’s experience, Garnet Rubio, a 22-year-old from Texas, presents a different perspective on the transgender journey. Raised in a supportive family, Garnet faced her own set of challenges, including bullying and isolation during her childhood. Her decision to move to New York City marked a pivotal moment, allowing her the freedom to explore her identity in a more accepting environment. As one of Dr. Ting’s first patients to undergo a new type of vaginoplasty, Garnet’s story is one of hope and transformation. She also undergoes breast augmentation and later facial feminization surgery. Garnet’s journey illustrates the importance of family support in navigating the complexities of gender identity, while also highlighting the personal courage required to pursue authenticity in a world that can often be unkind.

 

Mahogany’s story adds yet another layer to the documentary, presenting a narrative of loss and resilience. Once a successful male model and celebrity in South Africa, Mahogany’s life took a dramatic turn as she battled gender dysphoria. Her struggles led to a loss of her career and required her to seek disability assistance, illustrating the profound impact that societal rejection can have on mental health and personal well-being. Returning to Dr. Ting for facial feminization surgery, Mahogany embodies the loneliness that can accompany the transition process. However, her journey is also filled with hope and determination, as she dreams of returning to modeling as her true self. Mahogany’s story resonates with many who have faced setbacks but continue to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity.

 

Born to Be goes beyond the clinical aspects of gender-affirming surgeries; it emphasizes the emotional and psychological dimensions of transition. Through the stories of Cashmere, Garnet, and Mahogany, viewers are invited to engage with the complexities of identity and the importance of supportive healthcare. Dr. Ting’s compassionate approach serves as a model for the kind of care that is essential for transgender patients. His ability to connect with his patients on a personal level allows them to feel seen and validated in their journeys. The documentary highlights the significance of quality medical care, not just for physical transformation but also for the mental and emotional well-being of transgender individuals.

 

A Call for Compassionate Care Tania Cypriano’s Born to Be is more than just a documentary; it is a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and society at large to recognize and support the needs of transgender individuals. By showcasing the real-life experiences of patients at Mount Sinai, the film encourages viewers to foster understanding and compassion towards those navigating the challenges of gender identity. In an era where discussions about transgender rights and healthcare access are more crucial than ever, Born to Be serves as a vital reminder of the power of empathy and the importance of quality care. As Dr. Ting and his patients demonstrate, the journey to becoming one's true self is not only about medical procedures but also about human connection, understanding, and the courage to embrace one’s identity. Through their stories, we are reminded that everyone deserves the opportunity to live authentically and with dignity.

via: borntobefilm.com

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Image credits: YouTube