Welcome, Lisa!
Everyone’s story will be slightly different with a few similarities.

We all have a JAK2 gene, but sometimes it turns itself “on”into something like a mutation. In my case, I have ET w/JAK2. That’s essential thrombocythemia (high platelets). For almost 2 years, I’ve been on one baby aspirin every morning (and a second when I fly long distance). Aspirin doesn’t reduce platelets, but it makes them less sticky.

Now my platelets are in the low 700’s, and my heme doc says it’s a matter of time till I start taking HU. (Lots of drugs to reduce platelets, this is usually where they start).

Many people on this site have similar MPNs, and have been living with it for decades. I think of it like high blood pressure - you can’t tell you have it on your own. Easy to treat, but big problems if you ignore it.

Best wishes!