Essential Thrombocythemia

Hi

I'm 38 and have just been diagnosed with ET.  I was pregnant with my first baby in 2017 when they spotted high platelets which they put down to being pregnant.  Then I had my second baby 3 months ago and again had high platelets.  My Dr referred me to a haematologist.  I have the JAK2 gene mutation although don't have any symptoms just yet. I feel like I'm spinning out a bit and whenever I look at my babies I lose all composure.  I don't feel like I have all the information about prognosis, life expectancy and transformation to MF or AML and am thinking the worst.  Any guidance or words of advice would be much appreciated.

  • Hello AJR82

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently been diagnosed with ET. We've quite a few members here who also have this diagnosis and I think they will understand how difficult it can be when you're first diagnosed. I'd suggest having a look at this thread and also this one. I'm sure if you post a reply on one/both of these threads then other members living with ET will reply to share their experiences with you. 

    ET usually develops very slowly and over half the people diagnosed with ET will have the JAK2 gene mutation. With proper monitoring and treatment, ET does not affect most people’s quality of life or life expectancy. There's some really helpful information on the Blood Cancer website which I've linked for you here. Hopefully it will offer you some reassurance about your diagnosis. 

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses then please do give them a call. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope this helps. 
    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator