Double Mastectomy Analysis

To start David’s transformation began by “using tape to flatten the breasts”, and dressing like his brother, Brian (183). Soon enough, he began to grow facial hair, and “grew over an inch in height”(183). To his family, friends, and doctors, he finally seemed to be truly happy. In 1980, David then underwent a double mastectomy, which is having both breasts surgically removed. About a year later, David went through another surgery, which was to fabricate a “rudimentary penis” (184). He also took a “lifelong course of testosterone injections” (216).

After having an encounter with his girlfriend, David had to explain to her what happened to him as a child, and because of what he told her, it is believed that she told everyone his “secret”. David had begun to feel ashamed and ridiculed, just like he was throughout his childhood. As a result of this, he attempted to take his life, twice. The first time he overdosed on his mother medication, and the second attempt, he did overdosed as well, but also tried to drown himself. Although, once he recuperated, Brian introduced him to a young woman, Jane. Ultimately they began to develop feeling for one another and soon enough, got

His case was also known as the “John/Joan” case (216). Dr. Milton Diamond was the one who renamed David’s case, in order to ensure some privacy. Additionally, he gave the world his perspective on the topic of Nature vs. Nurture. From his stance, nature conquers nurture. He believed that no one can force a gender or a sexuality on someone. A person cannot nurture a boy or a girl, into the opposite sex. Conversely, Dr. John Money believed that if under the right environment, a person can turn a baby boy/girl into the opposite sex. For example, Ron and Janet making who was Brenda, wear dresses, play with dolls, wear makeup, and act “like a