Sixteen years ago, Thomas Beatie made history as the first man to experience pregnancy. Originally born female, he transitioned to male and gained worldwide attention with the birth of his daughter, Susan, marking a significant milestone in his journey to parenthood.
This groundbreaking event, however, was not without challenges, including receiving numerous death threats from those opposed to the idea of a man giving birth. Despite the hostility, Thomas remained committed to being true to himself, and his family has since grown to include two sons.
Born in 1974 in Hawaii as Tracy Lehuanani LaGondino, Thomas began identifying as a boy at age ten and started testosterone therapy at 23.
He excelled in modeling, martial arts, and participated in the Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageant. In 2002, he underwent surgery to remove his breasts and officially changed his gender marker on documents while keeping his female reproductive organs, which later enabled him to conceive.
In 2008, after pausing testosterone treatment to pursue pregnancy, images of a visibly pregnant Thomas created a global sensation. His landmark appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show allowed him to assert that the right to bear children transcends gender identity.
In 2016, Thomas married Amber, and they now have a blended family that includes Susan, Austin, Jensen, and Amber’s granddaughter, Lily. Currently residing in Phoenix, Thomas works as a stockbroker and occasionally takes on public speaking engagements and acting roles.
Looking back, he reflects on his journey with no regrets, acknowledging the significant impact of his story on visibility for transgender men.
