In a moving story of identity, transformation, and unconditional love, A’Jay, a transgender father, is sharing his journey of transitioning — not just as an individual, but as a parent walking side by side with his son, Vari.
Their story, featured in a Truly documentary, is resonating deeply with audiences for its honesty, mutual respect, and generational understanding.
A’Jay, who gave birth to his son, began his transition a decade later — when Vari was just 11 years old.
“My mom became my dad,” said Vari. “When I was younger, I called him my mom. I started calling him my dad when I was probably in middle school.”
The bond between the two remained unshaken throughout A’Jay’s transition. In fact, it was Vari’s openness and wisdom beyond his years that helped pave the way:
“He asked me how I’d feel about it, and I said, ‘If you want to be my dad, you can be my dad, because you already dress like a boy anyways. And don’t let anyone bring you down — just do what you want to do.’”
The father and son’s journey was not without thoughtful preparation. A’Jay stressed the importance of counseling, which they both engaged in for over five years to process and understand the transition on an emotional and mental level.
“I think it’s very important for a lot of trans people to put their children in counseling to get them more understanding of what they’re getting themselves into,” A’Jay shared. “Because not everybody is going to accept you right away.”
He continued:
“It was best for him to give me the opportunity to have a choice — or him have a choice — and together we both made one. And his choice was first, and then I accepted it.”
Now older and still incredibly close to his dad, Vari describes A’Jay as a constant in his life:
“He’s always there for me whenever I need something.”
Their story is a testimony of courage and truth. It is also a reminder of the power of communication and trust in family relationships, especially during life-changing transitions.
As more trans parents begin sharing their narratives, A’Jay and Vari’s journey is helping normalize the many forms that love, parenthood, and family can take — and how, at the heart of it, what matters most is presence, support, and acceptance.
