In the vibrant atmosphere of Promontory Point, a chance encounter echoed the complexities of identity as a passing cyclist yelled, “Hello ladies!” Although it rolled off Lonnie “Love” Kenebrew’s shoulders, it became a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by transgender individuals.
Kenebrew, at 59 years old, is a key figure in the Chicago transgender community, having dedicated a decade to his transition and to advocating for others. His sense of self remains intact, despite the moments of misrecognition that still arise.
In May, while speaking in the park, Kenebrew was recovering from a harrowing heart attack that had left him with a blocked artery and a near-death experience. The day leading up to the heart event was rife with discomfort, which he attempted to share with his sister, Charmaine Irvin-Kenebrew, only to have her miss his call.
Charmaine, a cardiac monitor technician, felt the urgency of the situation upon entering the emergency room, where she overheard medical staff using coded language indicative of a cardiac emergency. Her intuition prompted immediate action.
With unwavering support from his sister and a steadfast faith in God, Kenebrew has navigated his recovery journey. Raised in a devout family in south suburban Robbins with eleven siblings, he recounts how spirituality has interwoven his life, even as he’s grappled with the teachings of his youth.
Despite the church’s mixed messages, Kenebrew’s relationship with God has remained intimate. He often seeks divine wisdom—a guiding force throughout his transition. His story took another turn when he underwent his final gender-affirming surgery in January 2025, only to confront a heart attack three months later.
Reflecting on the experience, Kenebrew feels a newfound peace, saying, “I’m not afraid of death anymore,” emphasizing a spiritual connection that has blossomed from his trials.
Kenebrew’s understanding of his gender identity dates back to childhood, recognizing a disparity that separated him from his peers. He knew he was different early on, but the environment he grew up in discouraged exploration of this identity.
Coming out as transgender happened just shy of his 50th birthday, well after both parents had passed. His sister welcomed his authentic self, feeling grateful for his journey toward happiness. She understood the pain of not knowing one’s true identity and celebrated Kenebrew’s path.
Despite a rocky relationship in their youth—marked by sibling rivalry and misunderstanding—their bond strengthened significantly post-transition. Kenebrew’s heartfelt apology during his college years became a turning point, broadening their relationship into one of mutual support and understanding.
Kenebrew’s journey into transgender identity began when he identified as a lesbian in the early 2000s. The shift to his transgender identity brought new challenges, especially with family. One significant act symbolizing his transition was cutting his hair short, a moment he described as liberating, yet it elicited discomfort among loved ones.
His older sister, Angela Johnson, struggled initially to accept his transition, prompting conflict that led Kenebrew to move in with another sibling. Over time, Angela came to accept Lonnie for who he is, providing critical support during his medical emergencies, including that fateful heart attack.
Transitioning was not just a personal journey, but also a community experience for Kenebrew. He took vital steps to change his legal identification, marking a pivotal moment of self-affirmation. His relationship with Howard Brown Health became a cornerstone in his transition as he found community support and resources.
Kenebrew’s commitment to giving back to Howard Brown reflects his gratitude and the sense of community he had found along the way. His active involvement in events like the DISH fundraiser showcases his dedication to uplifting others in the transgender community while sharing his story.
Those experiences gave him a voice, not just to advocate for himself but for countless others navigating similar paths.
However, Kenebrew’s journey was also laced with loss and heartbreak, with periods where he faced severe adversity and rejection. Yet, he emphasizes that although he had to let go of some people in his life, he also discovered profound self-love—a theme that emerged powerfully throughout his transition.
Despite the loneliness that often accompanies such profound changes, Kenebrew’s resilience shines through. He appreciates the blessings he’s encountered and recognizes the importance of self-care that was often neglected before.
During the heart attack, while en route to the hospital, Kenebrew experienced the strange juxtaposition of his past and present. The EMTs noted his previous name and identity in their medical records, but as he arrived at the hospital—where he was born—he found solace in knowing his journey had transformed him.
His recovery and this near-death experience prompted reflections on identity and rebirth. Kenebrew likens the metaphor of death prevalent in many transgender narratives to his own experience, highlighting a transformation that resonates deeply with the symbolism of self-discovery.
He jokingly remarked on the irony of correcting his name and pronouns during such a critical moment, feeling it was indeed a resurrection of sorts.
With renewed vigor following his recovery, Kenebrew is now keen on exploring aspects of his newfound identity as a man, free from the fear of dying.
Kenebrew’s story is a testament to resilience, identity, and the profound impacts of love and community support as he continues his journey of self-affirmation and discovery.
image source from：https://windycitytimes.com/2025/06/09/i-came-to-life-as-my-new-self-chicagoan-lonnie-love-kenebrew-reflects-on-transition-and-faith/
