My Story: Growing up with gyno
I was first bothered by my gyno when I was in grade 4 (10 years old). I was so excited to go swimming during a school activity when my classmates commented on my man-boobs. I wasn’t laughed at, it was just a comment from their end, perhaps they were curious.
I think after that moment, I can no longer “unsee” this. From that moment on, I was aware of my condition.
Growing up, I was really skinny. We didn’t have a lot financially, so eating out at places like Jollibee (the Filipino equivalent of McDonald’s) wasn’t a thing. But when my parents started earning more, weekends at Jollibee became a regular treat. I'd get a one-piece chicken meal with burger and fries -- it felt like a feast back then. Around the same time, my dad bought us a family computer, and that became my new obsession. Instead of playing outside with friends or cousins, I spent more time in front of the screen, and before I knew it, I’d gained a lot of weight. That’s when my gyno became more noticeable.
During my elementary and high school years, I never recalled being bullied. Thank you Lord! I was just self-conscious. During my 3rd year in high school, I hit a growth spurt. I got really tall, and started to play basketball. My self-esteem also soared high during this time. I really slimed down to roughly 155 lbs at 5’11”. However, I still have my love handles and my gyno. I also started working out in a gym during this time. My gyno loved me so much, it never left me.
I would say my gyno never really largely hindered my life — I had girlfriends along the way, excelled in school, and at work. I am a committed follower of Christ, although there were temptations, I never had to show my gyno to my anyone except my wife.
However, it is part of my identity. Summers are not my favorite, and I hesitate to take off my shirt publicly.
Fast forward to today, I am married and with one little boy.