From The New Yorker · Judith Thurman · · 2m
A Woman with a Past
A woman with a past: a trans woman's life of bondage, dolls, and suicide.
In brief
A woman with a past: a trans woman's life of bondage, dolls, and suicide. Laura, a trans woman who worked as a dominatrix, died by suicide after years of trauma and gender dysphoria. Originally reported by The New Yorker.
Laura's early life
Laura was a radiant beauty of Taíno heritage with a model’s cheekbones and a smoky contralto voice.
Laura's voice and charm
She wore her hair in a thick plait that swayed when she moved and emitted a sensuality that stirred anyone with a pulse.
Laura's family background
Laura’s family was Hungarian Jewish immigrants, but her mother abandoned her as a baby and raised her by her abuela in Caguas, Puerto Rico.
Laura's childhood trauma
Efraín, her father figure, was abusive and raped her, leading to her hospitalization for suicide attempts.
Laura's gender identity
Laura identified as female at age three, inspired by Princess Ozma, and knew she was transgender by her late teens.
Laura's early career
Laura worked as a dominatrix, earning money through clients who paid for her role-play sessions.
Laura's doll collection
Laura curated a private doll museum with rare dolls from the antebellum South and antique baby dolls.
Laura's medical history
Laura received hormone therapy at age thirteen and underwent gender-affirming surgery at age eighteen.
Laura's relationship with Danny
Laura met Danny through the dungeon scene, and they married after she transitioned.
Laura's suicide
Laura died by suicide in 2003 after a suicide note revealed she was born a boy and had been transgender.
Laura's family impact
Laura’s family members, including her brother James, struggled with her gender identity and trauma.
Laura's legacy
Laura’s life inspired a doll business and a memoir project that she shelved due to concerns about her mother’s reaction.
Laura's final thoughts
Laura wrote in her journal that she wanted to be a woman in a man’s arms and found comfort in dolls and beauty.
Laura's suicide note
Laura’s suicide note revealed she was born a boy and had worked to correct her gender identity.
Laura's impact on family
Laura’s family members, including her brother James, struggled with her gender identity and trauma.
Laura's death
Laura died by suicide in 2003 after a suicide note revealed she was born a boy and had been transgender.
Here's the gist
Laura, a trans woman who worked as a dominatrix, died by suicide after years of trauma and gender dysphoria.
