Federal Trade Commission Workshop Highlights Concerns Over Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
In a poignant gathering at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) headquarters in Washington, D.C., panelists shared heart-wrenching stories about the impact of "gender-affirming care" on minors. The workshop, which took place on July 9, 2025, featured experts and individuals who have detransitioned, shedding light on the troubling practices surrounding transgender medical procedures.
The day began with emotional testimonies, as parents and survivors recounted their experiences with healthcare professionals who often pushed for gender transition without adequately addressing underlying issues. Simon Amaya Price, a young man who faced bullying and confusion during his adolescence, described a chilling encounter with a pediatrician. He recalled being told, “Would you like a dead son or a living daughter?” This statement, he argued, exemplifies the emotional blackmail many parents face when seeking the best for their children.
Price expressed gratitude for not undergoing irreversible procedures, stating, “I thank God every day that I am whole and here today. I was lied to by medical professionals.” His father, Gareth Amaya Price, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the emotional turmoil caused by medical professionals who prioritize ideology over individual well-being.
The workshop featured a panel titled "What Does the Science Actually Say About Gender-Affirming Care?" where Dr. Patrick Lappert, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, voiced concerns about the practices within the transgender treatment industry. He argued that many procedures are misclassified as reconstructive rather than cosmetic, misleading families and insurance companies alike. “The transgender treatment industry operates through deceptive labeling and practices,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for transparency in medical care.
Elvira Syed, another panelist, shared a tragic account of her daughter, who struggled with autism and gender identity. Tragically, her daughter lost her life at the age of 18, a victim of the very system that was supposed to help her. Syed lamented that medical professionals treated her daughter’s ideology rather than addressing her mental health needs.
The workshop also addressed the broader implications of these practices, with Dr. Eithan Haim, a whistleblower from Texas Children’s Hospital, discussing the fear that silences many in the medical community. He described a “code of silence” among professionals who fear repercussions for speaking out against the prevailing pro-transgender ideology. Haim’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to question established norms in medical practices.
Brandon Showalter, a Christian Post opinion writer, concluded the event by emphasizing the need for truth in medical care. He argued that the ideology surrounding gender identity is fundamentally flawed, stating, “Any medical treatment based on the premise that one can be born in the wrong body is guaranteed to cause damage.”
As the FTC continues to assess the landscape of gender-affirming care, the testimonies shared during this workshop underscore the urgent need for a reevaluation of how minors are treated in the healthcare system. With the potential for significant harm, it is crucial for families to be informed and supported in making decisions that prioritize their children’s well-being.
For more insights on the implications of gender-affirming care, you can visit the American Academy of Pediatrics or explore the resources provided by the National Institute of Mental Health. These organizations offer valuable information to help families understand the complexities surrounding gender identity and mental health.