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I first came across Jamie Turner’s name in a way that many people did: as “the pregnant man.” Turner and his partner, Alex Morgan, were expecting their first child together, and their story captured widespread attention.
Both identify as gay—a reality that was becoming more accepted in 2017—but Turner is also transgender, which was a relatively new topic for the public. The media frenzy surrounding their pregnancy was impossible to ignore, sparking conversations everywhere, even among those who might not typically be involved in LGBTQ discussions. Jamie’s charisma and infectious joy made me eager to learn more about him, beyond the headlines. If you need proof of his charm, check out his captivating performance on The Mystery Box Show, and don’t forget to grab a copy of his new book.
In “Embracing Family: From Adoption to Trans Pregnancy, What We Learned About Love and LGBTQ Parenthood,” Turner compiles many of his personal stories. The book is a delightful and insightful read that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Rather than focusing on the sensationalism of his pregnancy, the book unfolds a heartfelt love story about a couple who adopted Alex’s niece and nephew when his sister was unable to care for them. It delves into themes of marriage, parenthood, miscarriage, resilience, and living intentionally.
When I first heard Jamie’s name, I was on my own journey of exploring gender identity. While I identified as queer, I was questioning my own understanding of self. My knowledge of nonbinary identities was limited, so I immersed myself in stories featuring transgender individuals, and Jamie’s narrative stood out.
His relationship with Alex radiates purity, despite facing harsh criticism from some quarters. One particularly hurtful message sent during his pregnancy stated, “As a person of faith, I hope your baby is stillborn, as that child would be better off than being born to someone like you.” Such negativity can leave lasting scars, even on the most resilient of souls.
Years later, Turner shared a haunting experience on the Moth Mainstage about a nightmare he had during his pregnancy, where he birthed a monster rather than a baby. This vividly illustrates the emotional toll that societal hatred can take. The backlash against transgender individuals, particularly those who are pregnant, was a reality they faced, alongside the joy of their impending parenthood.
I found their story mesmerizing and wanted others to understand Jamie and Alex’s journey beyond the sensational headlines. Their family is beautiful, and I dare you not to get lost in Jamie’s Instagram feed for hours.
Having read an early copy of “Embracing Family,” I felt a protective bond with Jamie’s vulnerability, as it beckons readers to open up about their own truths. His representation of transgender pregnancies is refreshing in a landscape often dominated by narratives of trauma. This book is a celebration of trans lives and LGBTQ parenthood. It includes sections titled “Notes From Life in Our Family,” offering wisdom and insights akin to those from a close friend or counselor.
Jamie is also the founder of Inclusive Consulting, where he and his team provide training and workshops aimed at improving LGBTQ inclusion and equity across various sectors. He continues to create opportunities for learning and celebrating queer identities with clear boundaries. It’s not just about how he builds his family but how he approaches life itself—a lesson from which we can all learn.
For more insights, you can check out this other blog post and explore resources like this guide on fertility. For more information on pregnancy, Healthline is an excellent resource.
Summary
Jamie Turner’s new book, “Embracing Family,” offers a heartfelt exploration of love, trans pregnancy, and LGBTQ parenthood. Through personal stories, Turner provides insight into the challenges and joys of building a family, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding diverse family structures. His narrative shines a light on resilience amidst adversity and encourages readers to embrace their own truths.
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