Phoebe Hart is a documentary filmmaker. Orchids: My Intersex Adventure presents her story of self-discovery. Thank you so much for being here, Phoebe. Would you tell us a little about yourself?

I’m Phoebe Hart.  I am a documentary filmmaker and CAIS woman based in Brisbane Australia

How and when were you told your diagnosis?

My mother told me I didn’t have a womb and couldn’t menstruate or get pregnant when I was about 11.  She then filled in all the gaps when I was about 17 and I’ve been researching it ever since!

Can you explain a little about your condition?

CAIS is a congenital condition whereby I have 46XY chromosomes and testes but androgens such as testosterone have no effect on my body so I developed as feminine in the uterus.

What do you like the most and the least about having a difference of sexual development?

I don’t like being different.  But, at the same time, it’s pretty cool (being different).

Making a movie is a pretty bold move. How has the publicity affected you and your family?

The movie I made – Orchids: My Intersex Adventure – was therapeutic but in the way that shock therapy is therapeutic.  It was something that created waves but in the end has helped my family come together.  It was something I had to get off my chest and, not really by choice, I had to drag everyone I love along with me. Otherwise, I was surprised how few people recognized me after it was broadcast in Australia!! (Phew!)

How has your condition affected your relationships?

Not really.  I’m married now and, after quite some years of marriage, my husband did grieve not having the opportunity to have his own biological children.  But you never know what life has planned and he may get his wish yet.

Has it affected your religious views? How have Christians treated you?

I was raised to be a leftwing atheist.  If anything, nowadays I have an Eastern religious perspective along the lines of Buddhism. I have some views about intersex and spirituality along the lines of “two spirit” beings.  However, I’ve never had any bad reactions from other religions including Christianity.  In fact, the church-going people I tell about my CAIS generally congratulate me on my courage, and then tell me about the godly virtues of adoption, etc.  It might be easier for religious people to accept AIS as it’s “god’s choice” and part of the glory of his/her creation rather than an individual wandering off the righteous path.

Have you ever thought about who you might have been without your condition?

I would be a boy, yes.  I would have probably really loved that.  But, it’s my destiny to live in this body, and perhaps my kharma – what I needed to learn in this lifetime.

Is there something you’d like to share that might surprise people?

My movie is going to show on the TV in America – on Showtime.

What’s the one thing you’d most like people to know about you?

I’m a nice person, but I’m not perfect.  Far from it.  However, I believe there’s a power to telling our stories and that should be celebrated.

Thanks for sharing. More information on the film may be found the website or on Facebook