In news from late yesterday, Chastity Bono has announced that she is changing her gender from female to male and the process began just after her 40th birthday.   He will now go by the name of Chaz. Very little details are being provided on the announcement and Chaz is not currently available for media comment other than to share (through publicist):

“He is proud of his decision and grateful for the support and respect that has already been shown by his loved ones,” Bragman said. “It is Chaz’s hope that his choice to transition will open the hearts and minds of the public regarding this issue, just as his ‘coming out’ did nearly 20 years ago.”

Here’s a smattering of news clips on the announcement:

Here at Queercents we have lots of great information on transgender finances, transgender financial discrimination, and how to pay for sexual reassigment surgery from the very people living this experience every day.   It’ll be interesting to see how celebrity status does or does not impact Chaz’s experience.   Stay tuned as I’m sure our writers will be all over it.

Photo: Amazon.com Cover of Bono’s book.

Paula Gregorowicz, owner of The Paula G. Company, offers life coaching for lesbians to help you gain the clarity, confidence, and courage you need to have success on your own terms. Get the free eCourse “5 Steps to Turn Fear Into Freedom” at her website