Losing a parent is hard. It can feel like losing a part of yourself, leaving a space that will never be filled… or so it seems. In this episode of Dem Bois Podcast, I share my experience with the death of my chosen mother. While her health was in decline, my birth mother’s behavior toward me completely shifted. It felt like that motherly love just flowed. I haven’t recorded a solo episode in almost a year and in this episode I discuss that too. But, this topic weighed heavily on my heart, so I hope you enjoy it.I talk:A quick rundown of solo episodes from season 1 - 2:32Things I learned from my birth mother - 7:41Sharing the podcast with my family - 20:36My birth mother’s shift in behavior - 29:54How I met my chosen mother - 39:34Being at peace with the passing of my chosen mother - 50:16Read more about Shawn in his bio below:Shawn Aaron is the Founder and Executive Director of Dem Bois Inc. Shawn is a strong believer that trans men of color should have access to gender-affirming care and surgeries regardless of their economical status. Shawn is passionate about addressing intersectionality when it comes to one’s gender identity and access to non-bias healthcare. Shawn identifies as trans-masculine and understands the importance of accessing transition related care. “I podcast to share stories and experiences of gender expansive leaders within my community. This allows me to build connections across different communities of color and people spanning multiple generations. From the rising generation of queer and trans folks of colors to the elders who paved the way for me and others. There are few storytellers that document the lives of trans men of color. As the host and creator of the Dem Bois Podcast, it is imperative that I continue to amplify and highlight the lives of trans men of color. Visibility = PossibilityTMThrough my storytelling, I demonstrate that:- Trans lives are not monolithic. - Trans men of color have always existed in society. - Trans men of color elders exist and represent possibility for the next generation. - Young trans men of color now have a point of reference of what they can become since our stories are often underrepresented.”  Connect with ShawnAre you enjoying the Dem Bois Podcast? Donate today to help support the cost of production and the honorarium we pay our guests for their time. All donations are tax-deductible. Click here! Donate to support our 2023 Gender Affirming Surgery Grant Fund here!