just an update on this . 5 years on from the beginning of transition and it's starting to feel like the path is widening and looking positive . Less than two years to financial goal now . Have made 2018 a year of personal development . Fitter and stronger now both physically and mentally . The goal date doesn't feel like a line to stagger across now . It feels like a lauching ramp which will be approached building up speed preparing to launch . Feeling true happiness for the first time in 5 years ..and not a day of it , but weeks at a time . Transition is a nasty journey , but the rewards might be worth the struggle .