When I first met Rickey--
a 26-year-old transgender man from Kansas City, Missouri.
He was shy, a little reserved, and a bit unsure of himself.
I used to get up early, like 5:00 in the morning,
to take showers just so I wouldn't have to look
at myself in the mirror.
It's hard for me.
He was navigating his transition without a whole lot of support,
and no connections to the transgender community.
I introduced him to Laverne Cox, the first transperson
he'd ever met.
Hello, Rickey.
[INSPIRING MUSIC]
When the doors open, and I see Laverne.
I realized it was her.
Like, tears just drop because I felt like a baby.
Reborn.
Just breath.
Look at me, Rickey.
Rickey.
Breath.
Like a mom, you know, picking you up.
Before Fearless, I was struggling
with depression, anxiety.
After Fearless, I just blossomed.
I'm more happier, more confident, and fearless.
Unstoppable, is how I feel.
We want you to know you are no longer alone.
I just needed that push.
I needed to hear, you got this.
You're not alone.
And it just gave me an edge to keep going, and never giving up
on myself.
Walk with my head up.
Like, yeah, what's up?
Like that's just me.
A few days before Rickey's top surgery,
Laverne and I sent Rickey a little surprise message.
Hi, Rickey.
We love you so much.
So, so much.
We're at the Met Gala.
That's why we look like this.
Yes.
That's why we're all glammed up.
And we know you're having surgery soon.
And we just want to send you lots and lots of love.
I remember I was really nervous before my first surgery.
But it was the best thing I've ever did for myself.
So congratulations on becoming more of yourself.
Yes.
You're so brave.
We love you so much.
And can't wait to see you when you're out.
Yes.
Can't wait.
Praying many blessings over you, sweetheart.
Love you, Ricky.
Bye.
Oh, man.
It's like, seeing them again, like, in person.
I'm just-- bittersweet.
Like it's happening.
I'm crying again.
They're cheering me on.
So I know it's a good feeling.
I'm excited.
I cannot wait.
I know the journey's not over.
I am currently in my room.
Getting ready to prepare for the surgery.
It has now been a month since Rickey's surgery.
Let's check in with him to see how he's doing.
Hi Rickey.
Hey.
How are you?
I am flying.
It's so good to see you.
So you gotta tell me.
Like, wow, you just got out of surgery a month ago.
Oh my god.
I'm free.
No binding.
Yes.
Are you waking up after the sun comes out now?
Yes.
I'm like twice as getting up early.
[LAUGHTER]
How are clothes fitting you now?
Probably have to re-buy size of shirts.
[LAUGHTER]
I sent my grandma a picture.
You did?
Yeah.
What did grandma say?
She's like, oh my god.
Now I have to prepare for all the shirtless pictures.
[LAUGHTER]
Have you been thinking about dating at all?
Yeah.
I was-- I'm out.
I'm out.
Talking casual.
Dating.
So--
OK.
Is this the Rickey that I spoke to a little while ago?
Because I'm not sure.
I know.
It's like a whole new you.
Are you feeling confident?
Yes.
I can see it.
I can see it in your eyes.
I can see it.
You've always had a contagious smile, since I met you.
But it's like this constant contagious smile.
So happy to see you just being who you truly are.
I can see more confidence in myself.
Well I'm proud of you.
And I know Laverne is too.
I know that for a long time you talked
about covering up your body.
But now, with the body that you have,
we want to be able to give you $1,000 towards a new wardrobe,
so that you can feel even more confident.
Because when you look good, you feel good.
You guys just keep surprising me.
[LAUGHTER]
Well, thank you.
And I appreciate it.
And I don't know what more to say.
Mwah!
I love you so much, Rickey.
I love you too.
And thank you so much.
Bye bye.
Bye.
Wow.
I have to say, that is a new man.
It's just incredible to witness Rickey's new-found confidence.
Rickey, thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
And a special thanks to Laverne, and of course Ellen.
Love you guys.
Mwah!
[INSPIRING MUSIC]