Hi David, It's not surprising that that happened. Most people confuse Gender Identity (One of the main issues Transgendered peope are dealing with), Sexual preference and Gender presentment.
In the entertainment industry, the fact that transgendered people are truly struggling with their identity is lost, as the stereotypical "Drag Queen" approach is taken to represent a class of people trying to work out a base fundimental aspect of their lives. In today's culture, it is not acceptable to make fun of someone in a wheel chair or missing a leg, but people believe it is ok to chastize someone who is trangendered.
For me, I've not had verbal abuse from anyone except 1 person. For the most part my friends, family and neighbors accept me regardless of gender. However, that one person who doesn't accept me, has told me - "It's the work of the devil", "I can't get my mind around it" and the proverbial "It's just not normal".
It's funny how I can be out and about in restaraunts, stores, parks, movies and not have anyone say anything. But when I'm around this one person, they feel the need to attack verbally. I hope that as you develop your character (and story) that you choose to take the high road and treat the subject with care.
Respectfully,
Michelle Lynn