Please be advised that this episode contains discussion of sexual abuse of children

David Reimer’s parents just wanted to do the right thing for him.

What was supposed to be a routine circumcision in 1965 turned into a life-altering nightmare for the Reimer family when the doctor performing his surgery accidentally singed the infant’s penis.

The damage was irreparable. Concerned that their son’s injury might cause him mental anguish as an adult, Reimer’s parents consulted with famed sexologist Dr. John Money after seeing him on television.

Money consequently suggested that Reimer undergo sex reassignment surgery and instead be raised female. Desperate, Reimer’s parents took his advice and changed their son’s name from “Bruce” to “Brenda.”

David Reimer had never felt comfortable as Brenda, and even after he learned the truth and embraced who he truly was, the damage was done, and the story unfortunately ended in tragedy.

https://allthatsinteresting.com/david-reimer

credits: https://allthatsinteresting.com/podcast-credits

History Uncovered is part of the Airwave Media network: www.airwavemedia.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices