What It Takes

Director: Kelly Vanryan
Release Year: 2019

In 2019, Kelly Vanryan, a prominent transgender model and actress, unveiled a deeply personal and poignant documentary titled "What It Takes". Directed by Vanryan herself, this documentary offers an intimate glimpse into her transformative journey as she undergoes breast augmentation surgery. The film chronicles not just the physical changes, but also the emotional and psychological aspects of the process, providing a raw and honest narrative that is both educational and empowering. Kelly Vanryan, a transgender woman who has spent a lifetime transitioning, chose to share this significant moment of her life in a highly personal way. The documentary isn't just a simple recording of a surgical procedure - it's an exploration of what it takes for a transgender individual to feel complete in their own body. This brave decision to document her experience came after years of navigating the complex and sometimes dangerous healthcare systems that transgender individuals often face. Vanryan’s aim with "What It Takes" was not only to share her personal journey but also to offer a source of support and guidance to others in the transgender community who are considering similar steps toward affirming their gender identity.

 

At the core of "What It Takes" is Kelly Vanryan’s story. A transgender woman who had been on the path of self-discovery and gender transition for years, Kelly found herself at a pivotal moment in her life: the decision to undergo breast augmentation. For many transgender individuals, particularly those who have transitioned later in life, physical modifications are often seen as an essential step toward achieving a sense of wholeness and congruence between one’s identity and body. For Kelly, the decision to undergo breast augmentation was not just about physical appearance, but about aligning her body with her inner truth. The documentary allows viewers to witness her journey from the planning stages to the actual procedure, including all the emotions, challenges, and obstacles that come with such a significant step. The decision to film this intimate process was, in part, a way for Kelly to share her experience and offer a sense of solidarity to others who may be facing similar decisions. 

 

One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is Kelly’s reflection on the personal hardships she faced in the year leading up to her breast augmentation. In her journey toward completeness, Kelly had experienced profound loss - specifically, she lost 20 close allies due to a tragic series of medical malpractice incidents. These individuals were part of Kelly’s support system, and their absence deeply affected her. Medical malpractice is an all-too-common issue in the transgender community, where access to competent and compassionate healthcare is often limited. Many transgender individuals face discrimination and substandard treatment from healthcare providers, which can lead to devastating consequences. For Kelly, the emotional weight of this loss was immense, but it also fueled her resolve to continue her transition. Her decision to undergo breast augmentation was not just a personal goal, but also a message of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. 

 

While "What It Takes" is undeniably a deeply personal project, Kelly’s motivations extended far beyond her own transformation. She recognized that her story was not unique, and that many transgender individuals face similar challenges when it comes to accessing safe, affirming healthcare. Kelly’s goal with the documentary was not only to share her own journey but also to create a resource for others in the transgender community who are considering similar surgeries. Throughout the documentary, Kelly provides valuable insights into the process of selecting a surgeon, navigating the financial and emotional costs of surgery, and dealing with the various stages of healing and recovery. In doing so, she hopes to ensure that other transgender individuals have access to the information and resources they need to make informed decisions about their bodies. The documentary is a testament to Kelly's commitment to creating a safer space for transgender individuals seeking surgery and transitioning services. Kelly’s decision to document her breast augmentation experience and share her personal resources speaks to her broader advocacy efforts. She has always been a vocal proponent of creating supportive environments for transgender individuals, particularly when it comes to healthcare. Through "What It Takes", she offers not just her story, but also a platform for others to find the support they need in their own journeys toward self-actualization. 

 

In a world that is often hostile to transgender people, "What It Takes" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-affirmation and the right to live in one’s true form. Kelly Vanryan’s journey, as depicted in this documentary, is a powerful statement about what it means to be whole - both in terms of physical appearance and emotional well-being. For many transgender individuals, the process of transitioning is about more than just changing one's body; it is about finding the courage to live authentically, despite the challenges and barriers that may arise along the way. By sharing her own experience, Kelly hopes to inspire others to take steps toward their own personal fulfillment, no matter the obstacles they may face. Whether it’s through medical procedures like breast augmentation or simply by embracing one’s identity in everyday life, Kelly’s documentary is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-love. It’s a reminder that each person’s journey is unique, but that there is strength in community and solidarity. 

 

Since its release, "What It Takes" has had a profound impact on the transgender community, as well as on the wider public. For transgender individuals who are considering breast augmentation or other forms of gender-affirming surgery, Kelly’s documentary has provided a much-needed source of guidance and inspiration. The film has helped to demystify the surgical process, providing practical information and emotional support for those who may feel uncertain or overwhelmed by the idea of undergoing such a transformative procedure. Moreover, "What It Takes" has sparked important conversations about the healthcare needs of transgender individuals. By highlighting the difficulties that Kelly faced in finding competent medical care, the documentary draws attention to the systemic issues that continue to affect the transgender community. It also underscores the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where transgender individuals can access the care and support they need without fear of discrimination or harm. Kelly’s advocacy work, both through the documentary and her ongoing efforts, has contributed to a growing movement for better healthcare access for transgender individuals. The film is a call to action for medical professionals, policymakers, and society at large to recognize the unique needs of the transgender community and to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender identity, have the resources they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives. 

 

In the end, "What It Takes" is more than just a documentary about breast augmentation - it is a celebration of the strength, resilience, and determination that define the transgender experience. Through her personal story, Kelly Vanryan has provided a voice for the transgender community and a resource for those navigating the complex and often difficult process of transitioning. Kelly’s message is clear: transitioning is not just about physical change, but about finding inner peace and the courage to live authentically. "What It Takes" reminds us that every transgender individual’s journey is unique, and that no matter the obstacles faced along the way, it is possible to find completion, fulfillment, and self-acceptance. By sharing her story, Kelly has created a legacy of advocacy and empowerment that will continue to resonate with transgender individuals for years to come. Her commitment to supporting others in their journey toward self-actualization is a powerful reminder that we all deserve the right to live as our true selves. "What It Takes" is not just a documentary - it is a movement, one that encourages us all to embrace our identities and live with courage and authenticity.

 

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Image credits: YouTube