Happiful – September 2019

Contending with mental

health and neurodiversity,

Ashley and wife Morgana

faced even more difficulties

than most when it came to

embracing – and showing the

world – who they truly are

I

married Morgana on Halloween

in 2015. We didn’t have a lot of

money, so our reception was a

buffet at a friend’s house, and

the music a YouTube playlist.

In a nice touch of synchronicity, the

neighbours were having an early Bonfire

Night; the spectacular fireworks at the

end of their display coincided with

everyone heading outside for taxis

home. Morgana wore a full-length,

crushed velvet dress in crimson. My

waistcoat and tie matched perfectly. Our

first dance was The Pogues’ ‘Fairytale

of New York’. There was a cake smash,

photos, and a lot of laughter. Just a

normal, slightly alternative wedding.

Except that Morgana and I are both

trans. I’ve medically and surgically

transitioned, finishing things to the

Writing | Ashley Ford-McAllister

>>>

Finding safe

spaces online