Transsexual mechanic speaks to Pink

The number of transsexuals in Malta is unknown, and any such data is hard to gather since it is not possible to have sex reassignment surgery on the island.

Nevertheless, the world of transsexuals is a reality - and a confused, frustrating one at that, which despite bringing along with it an element of freedom, also has its fair share of prejudice on the part of society thrown at it.

Pink's February issue, which is distributed with The Times tomorrow, features the intriguing story of Brenda, who spent most of her life as macho mechanic Benny until she could no longer live inside an alien body.

Today, while she sports perfectly manicured nails and is cautious to keep every hair in place, Brenda is still a mechanic - doting on his wife of 30 years as well as a father.

Apart from containing its regulars on fashion, beauty, fitness and food, among others, tomorrow's 28th issue of the popular monthly women's magazine also looks into the trials and tribulations of turning 40. Its LifeStyle section shows there is nothing to worry about - and that, as the saying goes, life does begin at 40.

Pink's health section drums home the importance of smear tests to detect and prevent cervical cancer - the second most common and third leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide. Five women continue to die each year in Malta, with 10 to 13 new cases surfacing annually.