Tale of inspiration: Spike in inquiry on gender change surgery

Lalit Salve's surgery has been quite a story of inspiration. Recently, a resident of Pune met him in his ward to gather the confidence to undergo a similar surgery.

Three days ago, a 21-year-old girl visited St George Hospital to gain more knowledge on gender change surgery. Doctors said Salve's case helped her come forward and take this decision.

Speaking about the case, Dr Madhukar Gaikwad, medical superintendent, St George Hospital, said, "The girl from Pune visited the hospital to know more about the surgery. She identifies and behaves like a male and wishes to change her gender. We have called her for medical examination. She might visit the hospital after two weeks for the same."

"We allowed her to meet Lalit so that she can gain confidence," Dr Gaikwad said. This is no lone story of inspiration, however. Dr Rajat Kapoor, who treated Salve, and Dr Gaikwad, both have received many calls inquiring about the surgery.

Looking at the success of the genital reconstruction surgery (GRS) of Lalit Salve, St George Hospital has started receiving letters of appreciation from citizens. Recently, a Baroda resident wrote to the medical superintendent, lauding them for supporting Salve's cause.

Elaborating what the Baroda resident told, Dr Gaikwad said, "He said he was happy to learn of Salve and added that the team did a good job."

SETTING AN EXAMPLE

• Three days ago, a 21-year-old girl visited St George Hospital to gain more knowledge on gender change surgery. Doctors said Salve’s case helped her come forward and take this decision.