“Floriana brought Maggie to life in a way that truly changed my outlook on myself.” - By Deb

I grew up in a very religious household with very strict parents who constantly frowned upon people who didn’t fit ‘normal’ gender stereotypes and people who weren’t straight/cis. Needless to say, this had a negative impact on myself and led to a lot of internal confusion and homophobia.

I started to realise I wasn’t straight when I was in my late teens but, because of my upbringing, I just forced myself to ignore all of those thoughts and feelings. It wasn’t until Sanvers and Maggie Sawyer that I decided to truly live authentically as myself. Because of Maggie’s storyline with her father, I decided to own my sexuality and who I am despite having such horrible memories from my upbringing. She showed me that I would be able to stand up for myself.

I have also started experimenting with my gender expression which can be difficult in public especially since I am from a country that is not so accepting. I haven’t come out to my family yet but I am planning on it in the near future. It is all because Maggie Sawyer showed me that I am already good, whatever happens. I want to thank Floriana for doing such a great job of playing Maggie and bringing her to life in a way that truly changed my outlook on myself. She has been so supportive and still is and that is very rare and beautiful to see, especially given the situation.

Thank you to both Chyler and Floriana for the Sanvers relationship, the amazing work they’ve both done with Alex & Maggie’s storyline and for creating a lasting impact on my life. It really means a lot to me when I had such little representation growing up. Maggie matters and always will!