When Tyler Indermill was diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), he was 33 years old. It came unexpectedly, through fertility testing. Instead of letting it negatively define him, he chose to see it as an internal awakening. “If I could go back and give away my extra X, I wouldn’t do it. Then I wouldn’t be me. And I love who I am.” Today, Tyler lives in California with his wife, Tasia, and their daughter, Avery. Together, they embrace life fully—traveling, dancing, and speaking openly about what it means to live with XXY.

Growing Up: “There Was Me…”

Tyler is the youngest of three boys. School was always a challenge. While his older brothers excelled, he often struggled—especially in reading and math. “My oldest brother was the valedictorian. My middle brother did well. And then there was me…” Despite struggling with reading comprehension, Tyler worked hard and progressed. A key turning point came when a sixth-grade teacher suggested extra reading help. “That class made a huge difference. It was the first time I felt like I was catching up.” He also had difficulty making new friends. Social interaction didn’t come naturally. But one place he did thrive? Music. He played trombone by ear and quickly became the first chair in band class. Learn more about the connection between Klinefelter syndrome and learning differences.

From Quiet to Confident: Toastmasters and Dancing

College was a turning point. Tyler majored in psychology and began gaining self-confidence. He joined Toastmasters International, a group that helps people build public speaking and leadership skills. “Toastmasters helped me come out of my shell. I became more confident talking to people.”

This newfound confidence led him to try something outside his comfort zone—line dancing. He joined a local Wednesday dance group and, eventually, met his future wife. “We danced, and that was it. If I hadn’t taken that chance, I never would’ve met Tasia.” Now, Tyler loves to dance—especially West Coast Swing.

Discovering Klinefelter Syndrome

After getting married, Tyler and Tasia tried to start a family. When a year passed without success, they turned to a fertility specialist. Initial tests showed zero sperm. A second test confirmed it. Still, there were no clear answers—until a karyotype test revealed the unexpected: Tyler had Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY). “I thought my purpose in life was to be a father. The diagnosis felt like that purpose was taken from me.” Their doctor recommended a MicroTESE procedure, where sperm is extracted directly from the testicles. After 30 attempts, no sperm was found.

IVF, Sperm Donors, and Becoming a Dad

Even after the disappointment, there was hope. The couple explored donor sperm and began searching profiles together. “We looked at their voices, childhood photos, education—everything. It was surreal but empowering.” They tried IUI first with no success. Then, they moved to IVF, resulting in three healthy embryos. They chose to transfer a female embryo—and that’s how their daughter Avery came into the world.

Starting Testosterone Therapy

After his MicroTESE, Tyler’s testosterone levels dropped, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and low libido. He was hesitant to start testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), but eventually, he gave it a try. “I worried it would change who I was. But it actually made me feel more like myself.” He started with 200 mg biweekly but later shifted to weekly injections to avoid mood crashes. The result? A clearer mind, more energy, and a more balanced emotional state.

Embracing XXY and Telling the World

Tyler didn’t keep his diagnosis a secret. He began by telling close friends and family, and eventually, started sharing it with strangers too. He even had friends design a tattoo that represents his extra X chromosome. “It makes me happy when someone asks about it. I tell them, ‘I’ve got 47 chromosomes. Most people only have 46.’”

Through Living With XXY, Tyler found a supportive community. He’s shared his story on the Living With XXY Podcast, hoping to inspire others on similar journeys. “Being diagnosed with XXY hurt, but it also helped me grow. I took steps forward, and that helped me heal.”

Tyler’s Advice for Others

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome or are still searching for answers, Tyler wants you to know you’re not alone. “Find your people. Talk to others. Ask questions. Be open.” You can start by joining the Living With XXY Facebook Community, reading personal stories, or exploring resources for adult diagnosis.

Want to Hear Tyler’s Story in His Own Words?

Listen to Tyler’s full interview on the Living With XXY Podcast. And if you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with XXY, visit LivingWithXXY.org for information, support, and connection.