Below are my academic publications focusing on LGBTQ+ lived experiences. My memoir focuses on healing from religious woundedness, developing self-love, and finding an authentic spiritual connection after years of rejection. Both areas of writing examine resilience, identity, and healing—universal human experiences.
Book Chapters: • Polly, K., & Polly, R. G. (2014). “Parenting.” In L. Erickson-Schroth (Ed.), Trans Bodies, Trans Selves: A Resource for the Transgender Community (Chapter 18). Oxford University Press.
- Comprehensive guide to transgender parenting experiences, challenges, and joys, written for the award-winning Oxford University Press resource guide used by healthcare providers, families, and transgender communities worldwide.
Journal Articles: • Polly, R. (2021). Adopting inclusive language as part of patient-centered care. Journal of Maine Medical Center, 3(2), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.46804/2641-2225.1096
- Invited editorial examining how healthcare organizations can implement inclusive language practices to improve patient care and create welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ patients and families.
• Polly, R., & Nicole, J. (2011). Understanding the transsexual patient: Culturally sensitive care in emergency nursing practice. Advanced Emergency Nursing Journal, 33(1), 55-64.
- Clinical guide for emergency department nurses and providers on the unique healthcare needs of transgender patients, including terminology, transition processes, and specific recommendations for culturally competent care.
Book Reviews: • Polly, R. G. (2011). [Review of the book Gender and sexual diversity in schools, by E. Meyer]. Gender and Education, 23(2), 230-232.
- Academic review of Elizabeth Meyer’s educational resource on creating inclusive school environments for LGBTQ+ students, published in the peer-reviewed journal Gender and Education.
Dissertations: • Polly, R. G. (2015). (Trans)forming the family: A narrative inquiry into the experiences of transgender parents [Doctoral dissertation, California Institute of Integral Studies].
- Qualitative research exploring the lived experiences of transgender parents, examining how transition impacts family dynamics, parenting roles, and children’s well-being through narrative inquiry methodology.