I was diagnosed with essential thrombocythemia (ET) in May 2014 after a TIA at the age of 55. I was prescribed 81mg of aspirin until my platelets reached one million. At that time, I began treatment with 500mg hydroxyurea and aspirin. I am now 66 and in the best shape of my life. I take 1000mg hydroxyurea, 4000IU vitamin D3, 500mg Turmeric with piperine, 100mg ubiquinol CoQ10, 600mg N-Acetylcysteine, Super B-Complex, 240mg Ginkgo biloba, and before bed, I sometimes take 50mg diphenhydramine HCL to control itching and rashes. My platelets range between 450 and 700. I exercise daily and volunteer building houses with Habitat for Humanity. I was told to stay out of the sun and avoid drinking alcohol. I work in the sun often and am very tan as a result. I also drink beer after a sweaty day volunteering. I feel strong, and if you saw me, you would never suspect that I have a chronic illness. I have no fear of this disease and live as a healthy man of half my age.
Most days I find myself having a difficult time getting started. I wake up in pain unable to close my hands and move my arms. I force myself to exercise and it makes me feel better both physically and mentally. It's important to stay active and positive. Live your life as a normal healthy person and don't listen to the negative people.
After my ET diagnosis I felt like this is the end, but I soon realized I was wrong. It's not a death sentence but a life attitude adjustment. I now find myself living in the present. The more I help others, the better I feel. Most will disagree (I know my wife does), but I think it is a gift of sorts. Every day that I am alive is a good day. There’s no sense feeling sorry for yourself. People need me, and I am here for them as long as my body is willing.
David
essential thrombocythemia (ET)
