It was a welcome – and much-hoped for – reception.

“My community obviously accepted me,” she said. “All of my fears were for nothing.”

Often recognized in public now, Jeffries has been approached by people in the community who want to introduce themselves, offer support and share their own stories.

That positive feedback has been echoed on social media venues like Facebook.

“You are the type of person that I think my children should look up to,” wrote Marsha Tucker in a Facebook post. “You overcame such deep personal struggles and you never lost sight of who you wanted to be. I'm proud that you work in my community. Congratulations on being brave enough to lead by example! The true hero, personally and professionally!”

Another offered congratulations in her own post.

“Feels good to be you!” wrote Keisha McLeod.

While there has been a spattering of negative reactions, those comments are “water off a duck’s back,” said Jeffries.

Some of those criticisms have come from anonymous sources, she added, something she likens to cowardice.

“They’re staying in the shadows where I came out into the light to see.”

Jeffries is also considering taking steps to become a public speaker in a bid to improve education and awareness regarding gender identity issues.