Editor:

Thank you for "Chloe's Legacy" (Oct 14). Tragically, transgender people often endure harassment and discrimination as well as suffering high rates of depression and suicide. Hopefully articles like this one and the bravery of Chloe's parents in telling her story will inspire us all to be more open-minded, compassionate and better advocates in creating a safe and caring community.

One area of concern for transgender people is access to knowledgeable and sensitive health care. In order to better meet the needs of the local trans community, Humboldt Open Door Clinic has been having staff trainings, meeting with local and Bay Area trans advocates and is pleased to announce the opening of a monthly trans health clinic. Open Door is committed to providing excellent primary medical care to all members of our community, including gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. For more information or to make an appointment call 826-8610. LGBT teens can also access many free and confidential services without an appointment at drop-in Teen Clinics.

Two additional Web resources that I have found helpful are: Transgender Law Center, an awesome advocacy group in SF with info on legal issues (health, employment, housing, IDs, name change, etc.) and Vancouver Coastal Health -- clinician and patient level health information about hormones, surgery, staying healthy, etc.

David Horwitz, Physician Assistant, Humboldt Open Door Clinic