In April of 2022, 15-year-old Jason Pulman was found dead in Hampden Park, Eastbourne, East Sussex. His parent’s urge national services to provide more moral support for transgender youth to prevent similar tragedies.
Jason, who was trans-masc, was given a referral to a specialist for gender affirming care in 2020, but was told several months later that there was a 26-month wait period just for a first appointment. He never received gender-affirming care, let alone any other support, for over two years. This systemic issue may have been a factor that led to his early death.
His stepfather Mark Pulman says Jason became increasingly frustrated and had “given up.” His mother, Emily, says, “They (transgender youth) need so much more resources and not to have one appointment that’s years away. There needs to be regular input with these kids, so it’s not just about their gender; it’s about their mental health overall.”
Information collected by PA Media and reported by The Guardian suggests that more than 5,700 transgender youth in England and Wales are waiting an average of 100 weeks for a first appointment. Jason’s stepfather believes the numbers are “hugely underestimated” and hopes families are given faster responses and moral support.
“We want to change the system, and we want to change it for the families because it’s a very lonely, isolating place to be when you think you’re the only person whose child is going through this,” he tells the BBC.
“I don’t want people to think (being) transgender and suicide are the same thing because they are not. I don’t want people to automatically be fearful. If your child feels (they are transgender), you’ve got to believe them and support them. Families of trans children need to take charge of the system and not let it “take charge of you,” he adds.
Here in America, 25 states are putting forth legislation banning transgender healthcare for minors. Experts at UCLA estimate that the bans could ultimately affect more than 144,500 trans youth ages 13 and older.
Around the globe, both LGBTQ+ adults and children suffer every day from systemic oppression that in part leads to deadly declines in mental health.
To those who are struggling, just know that your continued existence in and of itself is an act of rebellion against those who wish for your death. Let hope motivate you to keep fighting for your freedom and happiness. And, if nothing else, spite can be just as encouraging.
Readers who are affected by the issues raised in this story are encouraged to contact the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255. For those in the U.K., contact Samaritans on 116 123, or Mind on 0300 123 3393.
