Thanks for the response. Glad to hear you are doing well!

I have to work to keep weight off because congenital back/heart trouble restricts activity. The cardiologist says not to expect to feel better after the mitral valve repair, just not to get worse. So I don't have a lot of impetus to get that fixed asap. However, my Medicare plan is being "revised" in 2026, so may have repair this year so as not to have insurance surprises.

After my husband's heart attack we both benefited from his new diet, especially in cholesterol levels. I also lost a bit of weight. Sadly the Season of Too Many Cookies and Binge Viewing is upon us, so back to some heightened vigilance about diet and exercise. One of these years it will sink in that the aftermath of holiday sugar and starch isn't worth the momentary pleasure.

My oncologist has been encouraging but vague about ET patients' long-term prognosis, especially CALR, and the long-term effects of HU on co-morbidities.

I get blood checks every three months, but only see her yearly. She suggested every 6 months, but I hate driving in the city and got her to agree to yearly visits if I was assiduous abt blood checks and calling in with any problems.

As things go, I feel well enough to do the things I enjoy except for riding a bike outdoors. Used to be able to go miles and miles out past the cornfields here and see wildlife. Last time I tried I got too dizzy.

Thanks for you thoughts. Good to connect with another long-timer.

Yikes, this was long-winded. Sorry!