Stephanie Peloza after the facial feminization surgery. (Photo courtesy of Stefanie Peloza.)Stephanie Peloza after the facial feminization surgery. (Photo courtesy of Stefanie Peloza.)
Chatham

CK YouTuber's Story Goes Viral

With over 400,000 subscribers on YouTube, Stephanie Peloza -- who grew up in Wallaceburg -- is documenting her life as a transgender woman.

Peloza (also known as Stef Sanjati) had recently undergone facial feminization surgery in December 2016.

Not too long after going under the knife, Peloza started updating her recovery process.

"When I was looking for information on this surgery or doctors that I might want to consider, there wasn't very much documentation," says Peloza. "So I decided to fill that void with my own experience."

Stephanie Peloza after the facial feminization surgery. Photo courtesy Stephanie Peloza. Stephanie Peloza after the facial feminization surgery. (Photo courtesy of Stefanie Peloza)

During this documentation process, Peloza says it has allowed her to become more connected with her subscribers.

In terms of recovery, Peloza says she's doing great both emotionally and physically.

"I've honestly felt almost no pain during the entire thing," says Peloza. "The support of my family has made it very easy for me to bounce back into my regular life."

As Peloza's mother tells BlackburnNews.com, her family has stuck by her side through everything.

"There's absolutely no reason ever to discard or disown or anything like that of your children," says Catherine Peloza. "You need to be there for them."

Background:

Picture taken as a child. Photo courtesy Stephanie Peloza. Picture taken as a child. (Photo courtesy of Stephanie Peloza)

Stephanie Peloza was born and raised in Wallaceburg.

At 19 years old, Peloza started the transitioning process.

"I would have known a lot earlier if I had known that trans people were a thing that existed," says Peloza. "I would have known maybe as early as four or five-years-old."

Now that Peloza has been able to bridge the gap, she says it has done wonders for her mental health.

For other transgenders who are thinking about facial feminization surgery, Peloza says research is key and make sure it's what's best for you.

"Know that your life and your experience is always going to be different from anybody else's, she says. "Don't compare yourself to anybody else -- especially when it comes to transitioning."

To view videos of Peloza's recovery click here.

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