Digem

Chapter 12

Caroline Rodgers was an unusual woman to say the least. She could practice medicine on animals just as well as any doctor on people. When she took over the primate research of the Digem program, she was probably the most qualified person for the job.

Being married to the most famous doctor in the history of America was just a bit tougher. People seemed to be more interested in their home life than her professional life and work. This disturbed her greatly. She told the people who she allowed interviews, that this bothered her. If they didn't ask about the research she was doing, she probably wouldn't ever let them interview her again. To her, a persons worth had a lot to do with what they could do and not what they were. (A lot of people were beginning to feel this way) It did begin to fit in with the way she was treated. Word does get around.

What she kept to herself was the life at home she shared with Me. She felt that it was no ones business what their life was like at home. She was proud of me. She loved me and I was her friend. She had lived with me for 6 or 8 months before she decided to marry me. It was an easy decision for her except for one issue, Alice. She wouldn't even dream of telling him how she felt sometimes about his cross dressing. But she knew it was part of the package. Who hasn't accepted positives with the negatives. Some people get drunk and other things. For her, it wasn't the cross dressing it self. It was the danger and the lies that were necessary to keep things going. If he got caught, it could be very bad for the program and for them. Cross dressing was still a socially unacceptable behavior. So she always got him to ask permission and plan outings. She even went sometimes. But she was not into the makeup and hair and appearance, but she had to change her appearance now too. She was a famous personality now too.

Caroline's father was coming to the "Hotel". Her mother was also going to be here. Robert wasn't interested in what we called Queen 101, "How to act a lady." But he would have to get some information about being female. After about 11 months, a GEM patient would develop a period. There was some hygiene needing to be taught.

The Hotel was now fully operational. Patients were operating the kitchen and cleaning. We were even setting up cottage businesses. Some of the patients could do crafts and we encouraged as much activity as possible. Leslie stayed so busy with the Hotel business, she felt kinda left out.

Leslie

Leslie told Billie everything.. The Quarter was always full of adventures. "Every once and a while, I would get out of the Dress For Success suits that I wear for office and slipped into something trashy and go into the quarter. Everyone still knew me. We were big business in New Orleans.

This was one of those days. Everything was crazy. So when things quieted down, I went to the apartment building and changed into something that made me look like a whore, and went sight seeing. I was blending in well when I noticed a lot of noise on the street. I stepped out to see what was going on. There on the side of the street, a transvestite was getting beat up. I yelled for the bar keep to call the police. I knew he would. So I ran down there and tried to stop the nonsense. I had both heels in my hands as weapons and was in the process of poking the eyes out of some asshole when the cops showed up. As usual, the jerks ran. I had tore the dress I was wearing and was almost indecent. But I had stopped the beating. The patient was one of the new people and looked like he/she had some broken ribs. Marilyn showed up in the Hotel van and took us both to the emergency room. I was bruised but OK. I couldn't understand why the gay people standing around watching this crap didn't do anything for us. I think they would have killed her if I hadn't gotten involved."

Billie had heard all of this before......After all, she had lived it....

While there was a lot of hate and confusion, there was a lot of compassion and understanding to. The news media which had been liberal and pro-gay for years were starting to state our case too. There seemed to be a lot of interest in our situation from a lot of churches and civic organizations. It seemed that everyone knew someone on the program. So while things were bad in one case, there always was a silver lining.

I was getting calls every day from a newspaper or TV. station wanting to interview Doc or come by and have a tour of our facility. I had a strict policy of no media or pictures inside the "Hotel". This was a private treatment center with hospitality. I had even gotten Marilyn involved in the selection of the key lock and pass keys for the patients. We even had a special entrance for them so they could enter in a secured area. We also had one of the patients who used to be a taxi driver. He (not quite one month as a patient) had volunteered to set up a little service with the "Hotel" van to pick up and deliver people in the quarter and around New Orleans. Marilyn wouldn't have to do this anymore. She could concentrate on her main job. -----------------------------------Leslie-------------------------------------

That job was getting more difficult. There were 50 patient beds and extra family rooms available for them. Then there were the secret service people on the top floor. They insisted on knowing everything about every patient in the building. The conflict between patient confidentiality and security was continuous. We took the stand that they would not have access to patient files unless Marilyn decided that the person involved would be dangerous to any one. They had not found one yet. We also had a policy of open door. Any one who was a patient in the place could roam every where in the hotel. This drove the feds nuts. So they always had someone very close to the area where the presidents son and family resided. There had only been a few problems. The word got around that they were a bit sensitive as to who went up there. The family was making friends inside the hotel and sooner or later, things would get better.

I had a running bet as to when you-know-who (Jack) would try to dress as a woman. No matter how macho a person was, the curiosity had to be there. I couldn't wait to see the feds try to protect her in the quarter. This was going to be a gas.

Doctor Allen Gurber had officially requested help with the program and wanted to set up an intern program with Tulane and the DIGEM patient and research program. With the Presidents son here, you could bet what the answer was. They would set up as soon as possible. Of course, Dr. Gurber would have the first rounds and would be the resident until some of the interns were up to speed. Allen had some rules. Anyone with a bad attitude toward any patient would be transferred out. Also the Hotel staff could not be interfered with for any reason. If any of the interns had a problem with a staff member, then they could take it up with Doc. But not the person in question. (He was thinking of me, Marilyn and Billie). The school agreed to the terms. (If he had asked them to kiss his ass before entering, they would probably have done it.)

The first interns came in a week later. It was very obvious that they were being very careful as to what they said to any of us. But there were friendly questions asked. I had this conversation with a young female intern who was going to be a physiologist. I wasn't being put on the couch, but she asked some very probing questions. She started by asking "How did you feel when you found out that you would have to become a woman to save your life?"

"I was one of the few who liked it. I was a transvestite before this."

"So you were ready for the change while some were not?"

"Yes, I was. It has been the best thing to happen to me in a long time. I am having fun and am doing something I really like too."

"Have you had to deal with discrimination and sexism yet?"

"Girl, just look where you are sitting. I deal with pricks everyday. Every man who comes in here thinks I am a dim headed bimbo. They make innuendoes and sexual advances all the time. They just go gugu over these set of DD's and a figure. I could probably flatten any of them quick. I just smile and tell them I was a man once and their bull shit won't get them anywhere here. Play me straight and you get business. Play me stupid and you won't get anywhere here."

"What do they do?"

"They make a hasty retreat or they straighten out and some even ask questions."

"Questions?"

"Yes, they ask how it feels and I kinda think some of them are like I was. Transvestite or gay or fascinated with the subject. I can usually tell you which ones are wearing women's underwear too."

"You have to be kidding me."

"You asked."

"Well, I guess I did. By the way, has your sexual preference changed?"

"NO, it hasn't. But I have decided to not have a sexual relationship with anyone. I have always been a loner. But you could now call me a Lesbian."

"You don't have any curiosity about having sex with a man?"

"No, but I did the next best thing. I was given a dildo. If I start getting a bit fascinated with certain things, then I go and fix the problem. The fact that I was once a man makes me difficulty prefer a female. What can I say?"

"You mean you haven't wanted to try a relationship with someone?"

"Why ruin a perfectly good friendship. I would be very difficult to deal with. I have the emotions of a cold fish. It was all the years of technical work and dealing with medical patients. I haven't got any emotions I want to show to anyone. And sex is emotional. Its got to be with the right person. Not just some romp for fun."

"You know, I like your attitude. I run into all these people who want instant gratification. This is really nice to find someone who isn't superficial."

"Isn't it crazy that you are getting this from someone who was always superficial in public for years. Even now, I am a superficial person as far as the way I dress. I dress this way because the job demands it. I would dress like a total whore if given the chance. I like to watch the men watch me. I like to blow their minds. But I would never let any of them get close. So you get the good with the bad. The women's libbers probably hate me because I look like the very thing they hate."

"You know, I think I would like to go and see you do that. I bet it burns many of them up."

"Well, I do have to be careful. I don't flirt with any of them. I don't lead them on. I just sit there and look pretty. Some of them try, but I stop it quick."

"I think I like you a lot. I would like to go out in the quarter with you one night."

"You know it might be dangerous. You will have to also dress the part. Have you got anything sleazy?"

"What girl doesn't?"

"I know a few nuns."

"Ah come on."

"I have to go. I have to find out about the laundry." She left me while I was trying to figure out who was going to work in the laundry room for the next week.

The interns were very corgal and curious with the patients here at the hotel. I found very few problems. Allen was breaking in the new folks. He would do rounds at around 10 every morning. He did it that way so that some of the patients would know when they were coming. They were kinda sensitive and shy right now. If you were being turned into a woman or a man you would have a problem too. There were patients who dealt well with the poking and prodding. Then there were those who didn't. The presidents son stayed away from the interns. He would only let Doc see him. For the most part, he stayed upstairs and worked on finical stuff. Jack and his wife were talking to Allen some very privately. I was betting that it wouldn't be long before we were seeing a new girl coming out.

Beth was a very good wife. Being married to the president's son wasn't so bad. But the security was a bitch. She had been wandering out in the hotel and security in tow. One day, she came by the office door and wanted to talk. Since Billie and Allen were all the time going somewhere and were never around when someone wanted to talk, I usually was approached. I didn't mind at all. If things were getting crazy, I would just work late. I remember many nights, staying up and working well into the morning. I lived in the apartment building just down the street with Allen and Caroline up on the top floor. I usually just walked. Tonight, I was working very late and had the door to the office open. She stuck her head in and wanted to talk. She didn't just ask to talk. It was just the way she acted. I stopped what I was doing and asked "How you doing?" I didn't expect for her to unload on me.

"Were you one of the patients here?"

"Yes, but I have completed and now run this place."

"You are not married, are you?"

"No, been single all my life." I told her my story of how I got to be director of the Hotel. She had a lot of questions.

"Physically, how did it feel to be transformed into a woman.?"

"Well, I was used to the female clothes. But there was a lot of pain. The 2nd month was the worst. After I got over the cramps and burning and fevers, I was all right. But then I got emotional. I would just start crying over nothing. Is he doing that yet?"

"Yes, especially if something didn't go right that day."

"Sounds like he is getting cabin fever. You know he will have to dress like a woman sooner or later. He needs to get out of this place for a while. Can you lose the goons?"

"Unfortunately, No I can't." "Then take them along. Maybe only one or two discretely placed around so that they can be observant. Maybe, one or two can do drag and look like they belong in the quarter.........."

"I have thought about it and that is a good idea."

"Who can go with us to guide him around?"

"I could do it. I am kinda well know around here and I can show him some life in the quarter. Is he trying on the clothes yet?"

"I think he has. But I haven't seen him do it yet."

"I think I need to have a talk with Dr. Gurber. The secret service will probably go along with this idea if he suggests it."

"OK, sounds good to me." She went back upstairs and probably talked to the hubby about this. After all, it wasn't good to be cooped up like this.

During the next few days, there seemed to be a lot of activity upstairs. Then I got the call to come upstairs and talk to the security folks. "This is going to be fun." I thought.

"This was your idea so we figured we would ask your help." The Secret service guys didn't know any thing about 'drag' at all. They needed some serious help. "First guys, you don't have to pass, thank god. You just have to look like a queen. That is easy enough. You will need some supplies. I can get you everything you need. But the question is, do you know what your sizes are and can you go buy the stuff?"

"No and with difficulty."

"OK, I need to get your chest measurements and sizes. Guys, this is hard work. But, I can garentee you that you will look the part. The smallest of you will need to do this. Physical size makes a difference."

"We have just the two people for the job."

"Good, get sizes and what you need."

"We have no idea what we need."

"OK, these two guys need to go with me and we will shop. Send them to me and we will get started."

"What is Jack doing?" I asked Beth. "I will need some help with him too. Some of the foundations are going to be difficult."

"I know just what to do. When you get ready, I will take them somewhere and fix them up."

I made some phone calls and set up an after hours appointment with Krauss and took the two agents, Jack and Beth. The lady set up everyone and I think they were amazed at how easy it was. Panties and bras were a bit on the embarrassing but the two agents never cracked up. They kept the same stone face that all the agents had. We bought what I would call queen stuff for the two agents and passing stuff for Jack. Beth wouldn't let Jack look like a queen or whore. I thought that was good.

We had to do the makeup and hair next. The wig shop was set up the same way. After hours appointments did the trick. The Hotel had makeup and supplies for the patients. So I didn't have to get any of that stuff. School was next. "Well folks, we need to get to know each other. I have been doing this stuff a long time. I know what hurts and what works. So first we need to know each others names. I am Leslie. I have been doing this for all my life. The drug that Jack here is taking will make him into a real her. I have finished my transition and am now a female down to the genetic level. Only a pelvis x-ray will show the difference." The two agents names were Bert Douglas and Ken Elliot. Bert and Ken were being troopers. I had to show them how to put things on and how to hide their penis. Bert would have to use a gaff. Ken didn't have to. Bert and Ken were 5'6" and 5'7". Things were going well until I asked the two agents to shave their arms and armpits, chest and back. They would not have to shave their legs. The padding I was teaching them to use make it unnecessary to shave. They of course, had many complaints but I told them that if they want to do it right, they would have to do this. The next day, they appeared ready and garments on and everything ready for makeup and hair. We were going to just practice tonight. Jack and Beth were working together and she was taking care of Jack's makeup. I would have to help Ken and Bert. "You guys want to fit in, in the quarter or do you want to go for passing?"

"What ever will let us do our jobs and be invisible." came the answer. I made them up as queens. You could imagine their reaction.

The next thing was to teach them how to move, act and talk. They all would have to learn this lesson. Several variations of the behavior could be used.

I had to first teach them how to walk. Can you imagine these super macho types playing the sway and strut. I couldn't help it. I left the room and broke out laughing so hard that they thought I was sick or something. I came back in the room and explained that I didn't want to offend them, but they were not very good yet. They would have to loosen up considerably. "Look girls, you have to have fun with this. You know that you will have to do this and you need to fit in. So laugh at yourselves and play the game. After all, that is all it is. Just let go." They started to loosen up and have fun with the costume. Then they started the jokes.

"Hey Bert, where are we going to put our guns. We don't have room in these bras." I spoke up. "Wear a sweater and a shoulder holster. I found that it worked for me very well. It's cool enough outside that even Queens wear sweaters." Both of the agents turned and looked at me and wanted to know why I wore a gun.

"I used to be a special policeman for New Orleans. I used the fact that I dressed this way and got the city to issue a gun permit and I occasionally helped them out in special situations. I think I still have the commission." The two's attitude toward me somehow changed. I was now one of them. It was incredible.

Jack had not picked a female name. I told them all that they would have to do this. Bert could use his name as a her. But Ken couldn't get away with that. So while dressed up, I suggested Karen. He agreed and now we had to find a name for Jack. Beth wanted in on this too. Look, none of you are quite ready for the quarter yet. Tonight was sorta kinda a dress rehearsal. I also needed to teach them what they needed to look like and the makeup.

"I suggest that you practice on a regular basis. After all, Jack needs to do it too. You will need to be ready for the detail."

They both looked at each other and just laughed. "The other guys in the detail will never let us live this down."

"If I catch any of them laughing at you, they will have to take your place."

"Good attitude Jack." They all went back to the living quarters upstairs and I can just guess what the other agents did when Bert and Ken appeared in 3" heels and looking like queens.

Everyone had agreed to work on sway and strut. The heels would have to be practiced in too. I really wanted them to stay in the clothing all the time for the next couple of days. They would need the practice if they wanted to be invisible in the French Quarter. They didn't have to talk, just look and act right.

I got word that the other agents had left them alone. I had spread the word around that if I heard of any one of them laughing at Bert and Ken, I would personally respond by getting Jack to put them on the detail. That kept the wise cracks to a minimum. The agent in charge of the security detail liked the idea. So Bert and Ken were instructed to dress as women all the time. They would be Jacks permanent Quarter detail. They could dress as regular agents when they were not going into the quarter. They would have to get used to the foundations and padding. The heels would be the thing they needed to get used to. They were wondering around in the clothing but no makeup for the next few days. I had agreed to help them with makeup lessons and how to cover their facial hair. I personally think they were getting into the detail. They had finally accepted the challenge. They were only worried how the other agents would react to their being "Queens for a detail." (Oy Vey, another good one.) I was also teaching them queen slang. I was giving them the voice inflections and phrasing. They were constantly going around and acting as fairy as possible. I was watching the other agents when Bert and Ken were doing this. Any one who didn't personally know these agents would have thought these two were "Flaming Gays."

It was time for the first real outing. Jack still hadn't picked a name. When Jack was present, Bert and Ken were the paragons of professionalism. You had to see this sight. Bert, the smallest of the two, was wearing a sweater, vest and stirrup pants. Ken was wearing a leather mini and a gold lamay top with a leather jacket. Both had radical 4" heels and matching purses. They had shoulder holsters with 9 mm's in them. They were small and easily concealable. They were wearing nail polish but not fake nails. I suggested agents that because, if they needed to act quickly, they would get in the way. Their makeup was queen to passing. Loud but not tacky. They did not look like men. That was good. They didn't look like agents. That was good. They looked questionable enough that no one in the quarter would give them any trouble. That was good too.

Jack was doing the respectable bit with a dress. It was safe too. He had not mastered the padding and didn't want to go through the trouble. It would be real soon enough.

I had decided to go with these people for the first outing. After all, they didn't know anything about the quarter. There was no way they could just prearrange a visit to any local establishment. It would have been a loud announcement to anyone who wanted to know.

We were off on foot. We were going to take the scenic route.

"I got the perfect name for you Jack."

"OK, I'm game, what?"

"Jill, as Jack and Jill went up the hill."

"It's the best I've heard yet. OK, I'm Jill."

Bert and Ken were doing OK in the heels. They would be walking several miles today. If they were not ready, they would be very sore tonight. But one thing about the padding scheme that I had arranged for both. I use support stockings to hold the padding in place. That was going to help the legs for both of the new queens.

The purpose of the outing was to give "Jill" a chance to see what it was like to interact with people as a female. Just do some shopping and go to a restaurant and eat and just fool around. I wasn't worried about anyone making Jill, but her reaction to some jerk who figured out that she was a GEM.

GEMS were always welcome in the quarter. In fact, a lot of the queens and transsexuals in the quarter were fascinated with the subject and always wanted to talk to our "guests". This was such an occasion. I tried to stay in the background and act like I was alone. I knew most of the girls in the restaurant we were in. They made Jill very quickly. One eased over and tried to start a conversation. Bert and Ken were quietly sitting off to the side and not interfering. I had told both of them that this would probably happen and to just let it. If they interceded too quickly, then everything would be blown.

"You are one of the cancer patients, aren't you?" one of the local girls came up and asked. "Well, yes. It's my first time out. I hope I'm not that obvious?"

"Not to a tourist, but to us, you stand out."

"I'm Jill."

"Hi, I'm Jo Beth. Who are your friends?"

"They are a couple of friends who wanted to go with me for the first time."

"I hate to tell you but they look like cops."

"Oh no, I'm sure they aren't cops."

"Well they act like it. It must be because they are military."

"I bet marines." Bert spoke up.

"I was an army ranger. My friend is a Marine."

"Yep, that's it. You girls need to loosen up. You stand out too much."

Then Jo Beth spotted me. "Leslie, you need to teach your girls better than this."

"Jo, give me a break. This is their first time out. They need some work, yes, but you know it always takes time. This is Bert and Karen. "

"You girls need to loosen up. That military bullshit will get you in trouble down here."

"Our head is up our asses today. What are we doing wrong?"

"You are carrying yourselves too tight. Let your arms loosen up and move around some more. Be more expressive and outgoing. You both are made up like sluts. Be sluts. I think you two are worrying about what everyone else is doing and not having any fun."

"You know, I think you are right." The two went into the little act they had used at the hotel. Everything was now fine and they were beginning to blend in. Jo Beth was one of the local hustlers. She was a friendly sort so I just hung back and let her and Jill talk. This was the best thing for Jill in the world.

When the conversation was over, I eased over and asked how it went. "Just fine. We talked about all the girl stuff. It was fun. Leslie, I never knew it was going to be as tough as it really is. Being a woman is going to be the biggest challenge of my life."

Bert and Karen spoke up. "You can say that again. I will never again complain to a date that she took too long to get dressed. I will never again complain about anything a female does. This shit isn't easy at all."

If they could see themselves from the rear. Bert and Karen were walking just like a couple of very fairy gays. Not like a woman. I would have to point that out to them. Minor adjustment. Jill was walking like a man. We stood out like sore thumbs. O well, they were at least trying.

They continued to shop and walk around for several hours. I just hung back and fiddled a bit. At the end of the outing, everyone went back to the hotel and talked about what happened and how things went. There was always a debriefing after every detail and both Bert and Karen had to describe what they had experienced. I was personally going to take care of those two guys. They had guts.

I was going to recommend to the Secret service commander that these two sit in on all classes we taught the GEMS. They could be really well trained in female body language and behavior. It would be very useful in undercover and bodyguard details in the French quarter or in a Gay environment. Just as I thought, he didn't have to be talked into it very much. He agreed. I had two new students. After all, they would probably be around when "Jill" was attending the same classes.

The interns were doing well in the Hotel. Tulane had been very cooperative. Except for security. They were still trying to take over the facility and security was one of the sticking points. I was the other. They wanted their own people in charge of both jobs. Politics was causing both me and Marilyn big trouble. If either of us screwed up, it would be the end. I had to talk to Doc.

It took a while, but I found him on rounds. "Doc, I have to have a talk. Can I schedule an appointment?"

"How about later today?"

"Perfect. Its more trouble with Tulane. They want to give me and Marilyn more trouble."

"OK, I will come by the office later." He took off again with the interns on rounds.

Doctor Gurber showed up later that day with the administrator of the medical facility from Tulane. "Tell this man your problem."

"Great, thanks for coming over here. The problem is that some of your people are trying to move me and our security chief out of here and replace us with Tulane employees. We know what is going on over here better than any of your people. Also, Dr. Gurber here owns this facility. Is there any way you can call them off us?"

"I don't think I can help you that much. They are under the personnel director and I think the personnel director wants only our people around. This will probably be an on going problem." "Who do we see to fix this?"

"Probably one of the board of directors. But it might be one of them that is the problem. I will see what I can find out." Dr. Gurber smiled and winked at me. I knew he had a plan. I would be patient.

Life in the hotel was now very busy. People were coming and going all the time. Friends and families were constantly visiting the patients. We had temporary accommodations for the visiting family members. But the spouses of patients could stay with patients at no additional cost. We had set it up that way. It would be traumatic enough for a married couple to end up having a lesbian or gay marriage. Most of the female to male patients had the most trouble with transition because the husband would usually divorce the spouse after the treatment was completed. Most would try to adapt. But it never seemed to work out. So we made it possible for the patients and spouses to live together while the other was in transition. We were keeping most patients for the full year. Some could go home before then. But we were very specific as to the conditions which that could happen.

I was now a year and a half old. The Digem program was officially 5 years old. My life was the best it had ever been. I had a job with a purpose and was making a very nice living. Doc was sharing the wealth from the program. Cancer was not a cheep desease. By the time the patient was completely transisioned, their insurance would shell out 100,000 bucks. Then the drug Dr. Allen Gurber had developed cost 8 to 10,000 dollars a year. He wasn't charging that. The drug companies were. Doc made at least a 25% commission. There were patients who could not afford the drug or the therapy. There were foundations that would help a patient with some of the cost. Also, we would allow patients to work for the Hotel.

We found some interesting statistics from the research with human patients. I also had compiled some very interesting social statistics.

The more conservative the Man to woman patient was, the more outrageous they would dress. The local teen stores were beginning to carry Plus sizes in the young fashions. We had to have a little talk with the new patients before they made the mistake of whoring out in the quarter and getting beat up when they didn't put out. (Have sex) We had to be very specific about what was acceptable dress and what was not. Of course, if you wanted that look for a party or going to one of the queen bars, then it was OK (in groups of 2 or more).

It seemed that a man's image of a woman was different from man to man. He would dress like his image. The assholes were the worst. We usually let them make a mistake and almost get beat up once just to show them why it wasn't a good idea. We did keep a good eye on them. (Someone was always watching.)

The women didn't have too much trouble. It was easy to pass as a man. But they usually ended up looking like a gay. The voice always was the problem. The girls voice would change very slightly, but not enough to be really macho. But the clothing was easy for them. Allot more simple than female clothing. But there was still codes. Men didn't wear the really bright colors. They toned down and went with earth tones and simple stuff. This did change if they were going out. But usually, shirt and tie was the code.

We were continually updating our data base. We would track our patients from day one to where ever they were in the real world. We also would track their re birthday.

One of the brand new patients was a city policeman with a very difficult cancer in his genitals. They had removed all of his genitals to try and remove the cancer. But it had gone too long and spread into his gland system. They had brought him into the clinic on a stretcher. He was physically unable to walk. The doctors who were treating him didn't give him even one week. This was going to be the closest any of Dr. Gurber's patients were going to come to dying. It was going to be an interesting experiment.

Jill was doing better. She was going out now with her two agents. Sometimes, they wouldn't do any of the costumes. They would just go as tourists in sweats. It worked well. Jill only needed the queen squad when she wanted to go into the quarter at night. But there were other problems. It seemed that the press had somehow picked up on the story that Jack was on the program. Marilyn had spotted a camera set up in a building and was inquiring in the naborhood as to who it was. The press (a national tabloid show) was video taping people coming and going from the hotel. Marilyn sicked the Secret service on them right away. It started quite a fuss. They were screaming that they had a right to do this because Jack was a public figure. This was going to end up in the courts. But until then, we set up the extra special makeup stuff.

We had some experience with latex and form changing face work. The crew built a life cast of Jack and started the special work of making a new face. It was only going to be used to mislead the press. We also found a secret service agent who was the same physical build of Jack and did the male version of the same thing. It was going to be the best wild goose chase we would ever concoct for a patient.

Jill's new face was of a 55 year old woman with slightly gray hair. Bert and Ken would always be around, but they also got the "Job" done to them too. We even turned Bert into a Black woman. Ken wasn't really interested in the extreme latex job. So Karen would do the legit bit and go for passing. Bert looked fabulous.

The scam went so well that the press guys found the Jack look a like on the street and started taking a lot of pictures and sticking mikes in his face.

"Mr. Erricson, is it true that you are now a GEM?"

"Who are you?"

"We are from Video Tabloid."

"I am not Mr. Erricson."

"You sure look like him."

"You familiar with bate and switch? We got you assholes!" A bunch of agents jumped out and grabbed the press people and arrested them for harassment.

"You can't do this. This man is a public figure!"

"Guess what, he has never been a public figure. Just because he is a son of the president doesn't mean that you can follow him around and harass him."

"Yea sure cop, see you in court."

"We have video of our own. You have a fight on your hands." With that, the secret service took the reporter and camera man to jail. They would be on the street in a couple of hours. But they would be a lot more careful about how they approached anyone from the hotel. The old lady makeup stayed around for a couple of weeks more. The feds got a restraining order and the tabloid disappeared. They could not substantiate weather Jack was even there or not. But the rumors were flying. They would have to go public sooner or later.

One week after the bait and switch job, I had agents in my office waiting for me. "We are going public with Jack being on the program."

"Before you do anything rash, let me get everyone around here ready. We really don't want the publicity."

"This came from the President. How soon can you get Dr. Gurber to come to Washington and have the press conference?"

"Good question. I will contact him and let you know as soon as possible." These people were used to us by now. They didn't argue or complain. They just turned around and left. 30 minutes later, I had Doc on the phone and he was not happy.

"I will have to hire 50 more security people just to guard one family."

"I think this can be handled."

"Well, I guess we can't stop it. When do they want to do it?"

"In Washington and this week."

"Shit"

"Yep. It is."

"Get the crew ready. We are going to Washington again."

This trip was becoming old hat. I think the airline had special reserved seats on this one aircraft. We had been on it enough. One more time, Dr. Gurber would be in the press. The President and Mrs. Erricson with their son would have a press conference. There they would explain the program again and the fact that Jack would have died a month before if he had not op-ed to go on the program. He would become a she as a result and should not be viewed negatively. Dr. Gurber would be present to answer questions again and present examples of people who had to go through the program.

Some of the most consistent questions asked by the press went from profound to just down right stupid. The press conference went just as we expected. Here are some examples of questions asked.

"Dr. Gurber, why do your patients have to stay in your facility for a year?"

"The main reason is that we need the research data. Every patient reacts to the drug in the same manner. The result is the same but the level of cancer effects the speed in which the transformation occurs. There is pain and discomfort during this time period. Also the patient will go through serious depression and emotional distress while the hormone levels change and re-adjust. Our program has always been supervised. The other clinics around the country didn't do that. They have had cases of attempted suicide and many deaths. That is why we keep these people in what we call the "Hotel" for a year at the most."

The next most asked question was "Dr. Gurber, why do you make your patients wear women's clothing?"

"We don't make them do anything. If a patient wishes to learn how to dress and act like a lady or man, depending on their situation, then it is best to do it in safe surroundings. Most of these people are sensitive to redicule and are already in a serious emotional state. So we offer classes and outings in public. We give them a way to learn and not worry about the social consequences. You have to understand that if they are just turned out into society, then they are truly confused. They will look like a real woman or a real man. The drug does this. One of the side effects of this drug that we still don't understand is that a Man to Woman patient will develop large breasts. Usually D's or larger. This can be fixed by surgery. But can you imagine what our patients would look like in this condition trying to act like a man?"

There was usually several follow up questions to this one. "How complete is the transition from Man to Woman?"

"We have not had a pregnancy yet. But most of our male to female patients menstruate. The female to male patients have full function. But as to fathering children, it hasn't happened yet."

"Is there any way to tell if a person is one of your patients?"

"Yes and No. I am not giving you any more because that is patient confidence."

"Then there is a way?"

"Again, Yes and No."

"What do you mean yes and no?"

"No comment!"

This is just a few of the many examples of what they asked. There were all kinds of questions directed to Dr. Gurber as to the many legislative actions concerning GEM patients.

"Dr. Gurber, do you support legislation protecting the confidentiality of GEM patients and their past lives?"

"Of course"

"How do you feel about employers not wishing to rehire or to terminate employees who have gone through the process and are coming back to work as females when they were once men?"

"There are discrimination laws already on the books to prevent discrimination against a person because of their sex or gender. They must rehire or admit them back. One more thing, You have to remember that the change in 99 % of these cases is not voluntary."

"You mean that there are some cases that want to be the other sex?"

"Yes. Most are gay and the rest are transvestites."

Doc had a speech prepared at this point. "Gentlemen and ladies of the press, you have to understand that in too many cases, people reject what they don't understand. Transvestites and transsexuals have gone through these pressures for years and years. Now we have people who are changing their sex because they want to live. What in the hell is wrong with that? What difference does it make as to what clothing I wear. Society should be big enough to allow for this. The next time I come in front of you people, I should do it in a dress. Its just clothing. You are part of the problem. You continue to perpetuate the social separation of the genders. Americans are always too hung up on sex. We are the only country that has laws that require men and women's toilets. In Europe, they only have one room for both. People act in a proper manner. Is it the religious folks doing this? No, it is just the way its been done for too many years. I am personally going to shake America into realizing that they are just too hung up on the Sexes and need to lighten up. Men do not go around prowling close to the ladies room to peep and see them in an undressed state. They just want to take care of their business and leave. A necessity of life. Give me a break."

That one usually stirred up the press into all kinds of frenzies. They would say "Mad doctor wants to make America sexless society." or another one, "Doctor wants to change your sex." They would sensationalize what ever they could.

The press conference went like it usually did. The press asked all the expected questions. Poor Jack / Jill was in the frying pan trying to answer what she could. The answers to most of the questions was "I am going day by day. I have no idea what the hell I am going to do. I may have to live like a woman, because that is what I will be. And no, I don't particularly like it. But it is necessary for my social benefit and acceptance. What would you guys do if you were me?" The big question that was asked was, "Because of the growing violence towards GEMS, do you feel that this will legitimize the procedure and allow the general public to accept GEM patients?" The answer Jill gave was "I have no idea again what the effect will be on the general public. But the law is very clear that discrimination is wrong."

This one was directed to Dr. Gurber. "How do you feel about middle class America saying NO to destroying their customs and traditions?"

"Destroying their customs and traditions?"

"Yes, the differences between men and women. If you do this, there will be no differences between them."

"To answer your question, I am not destroying anything. I am perpetuating it. We just ask that we be accepted as what we appear."

"We?"

"Yes, We. We are all in this together, aren't we?"

That usually stopped the show. I was keeping notes. I was sometimes confused as a reporter and hustled out of the room before the security people figured out that I was part of Dr. Gerber's party. I have only been read once and by a woman reporter. In this particular case, she quietly slipped up to me and asked what I did for Dr. Gurber.

"I am the director of the Housing facility for the patients."

"You one of the patients?"

"How did you guess?"

"You didn't give yourself away. Dr. Gurber gave you away by looking at you a lot and the way you were taking notes. You are not used to the long nails yet, are you?"

"Well, you got me."

"How long have you been complete?" "Its been a year and a half now."

"You must have been in the second group of patients that started in Arkansas."

"You seem to know an awful lot about our program."

"I know a few of your other patients."

"We will need to talk later."

"Sounds good to me, and of course, off the record."

I got some phone numbers and left. The president and new daughter were in the oval office taking pictures and then a private chat. When they came out, the president wanted to talk to Dr. Gurber and Me. I had no idea as to why he wanted to talk to me, but I went in.

"Leslie, I want to thank you for helping my, uh......, daughter getting ready for life and helping Beth."

"I am always ready to help any one who needs it. We all need to help each other."

"Dr. Gurber, I might need some of your people around to help me with consultation. I have no idea as to how to address the issues that are connected with all of this. Jill can't possibly know enough to help with the press."

"Thank you Mr. President. But my place is with the doctor and staff. I have a job to do and when that job is done, then maybe I will take you up on the offer." (I can tell you Dr. Gurber was very happy that Billie was not with us on this trip.) I couldn't believe that I just turned down the President of the United states. But I enjoyed what I was doing and the prestige was not something that I needed.

Then the President came back and asked differently. "Leslie, then could I impose on you every once and a while to ask questions and possibly come up here occasionally to just help keep us straight?"

"I would be honored to help. I don't think that would disrupt the work at the Hotel."

"Is that what you call it?"

"Yes, after a joke we had in Arkansas, The Hormone Hotel."

"OK, I get it." We left in a very good mood.

The woman reporter that bumped into me at the press conference called me up at the hotel room just before dinner.

"Can you meet me down stairs?"

"Sure." Joan Beasly was a very beautiful woman. She was the kind of woman who could get any man to talk about what ever she needed to know. But I once had been a man. I wasn't affected like I used to be by a beautiful black haired woman. I was 5'8" barefoot. I usually wore 4" heels just because I liked them. This lady was almost as tall. I had the feeling that she was going to put moves on me. But I was going to be careful. I had a suspicion what the subject was. "I found the conference very interesting today." Joan said, greeting me.

"Yes, but it went like most of the others. Same questions over and over."

"Dr. Gurber said something very interesting today though. When he said that he might appear in a dress just to shake up the reporters, I got the feeling that he might have some experience." I knew it. They were looking for dirt.

"I can personally tell you that Caroline wears the dresses in that marriage."

"You mean Dr. Caroline Rodgers?"

"Who else?"

"You know, he would make a great looking woman."

"I have never thought about it. Maybe your right. But I doubt you could get him to do it. It would be too much work. He is the type who doesn't really care about the way he looks. Typical male slob."

"You know there is all kinds of rumors about him."

"No, I didn't. I have to tell him that. I think he would find that funny."

"Leslie, you are very sharp. You knew just what I was after, didn't you?"

"No I didn't, but if you really want to find out anything about Allen, then you need to just ask him."

"How long do you plan to stay with his organization?"

"As long as he will have me."

"Oh the stories I bet you could tell."

"Oh the lawsuits I would be in if I did."

"You are a brick wall, lady."

"Thank you for the complement. As the director of the hotel, I get requests for interviews daily. I have to be very hard about what I do."

We ate and sat around and talked about the social ramifications of the gender swapping. We sat there and fixed society. Rush Limbaugh would have been proud of us. Then the thing that I didn't expect happened.

"Leslie, you know that I am Lesbian?"

"I had no idea. That is a hell of a come-on."

"I am not attracted to men. I am a Lesbian and you are turning me on."

"Joan, the brain is still male. But the body is very female. I am attracted to Females. But I haven't been in a sexual relationship since the change. But I know it works."

"Sounds like you have a rubber friend."

"Well, (heavy chuckle) yes. It was a gift from a friend."

"I have one too, But it was designed for two."

"Thanks for asking, but I really am not interested. I really have to know someone a lot better to get involved like that. It is too complicated enough around the hotel to have a love affair."

"Who said anything about love?"

"That is exactly the point. I need the emotional connection for it to be any good for me. I am not driven by my body. I need to feed the emotions. It would not be a pleasurable thing." I got up and made the usual excuses and left the restaurant. It was going to be a very long day of traveling tomorrow. The group was going back to New Orleans at noon.

That was the first time a Lesbian ever came on to me that way. Direct and to the point. It would give me a lot to think about when we got back to New Orleans. I think also it was time for Dr. Gurber to know about what me and Joan Beasly talked about.

Me and the Doc were in the very back of the plane one the way back. I had the needed conversation with him. He was aware that someone in the quarter had blabbed. But what could you do? It was going to happen sooner or later. What would happen if he decided to go public? There would have to be some serious conferences with the whole inner circle of the DIGEM program.

Caroline was not as receptive to the news of the rumors as Allen was. She was livid. I didn't want to be around too much until they had the needed conversation. It was going to be a hum dinger.