John Van Den Akker's interview
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How did all start?
As with everyone else with Klienfelters, I was born with it, but I wasn't diagnosed until the age of 25, when I and the wife at the time wanted to have a child. I was karyotyped 47-XXY. The wife and I did finally have the children we wanted, a son, (now 30) from IVF with donor sperm and a daughter (now 22) adopted at 18 months.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, it only took a couple of weeks.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Androgel
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Before I was diagnosed while growing up. I was accused of being stubborn and not willing to learn.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
All is good, I'm one of ten. The only one with XXY.
What do you think about the future?
I've no idea what my future holds. It's impossible to find a doctor that can really help. Nowadays, if you're a child under the age of 18, there's lots of help.I've never heard of help for us older XXYer's.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
A rollercoaster ride.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Join XXY groups. You can find out a lot of good information.
