@janemc After taking 500mg HU 2 x day for about a month, my Platlet count is down to 300 from over 800. I was quite pleased as was my oncologist, who is now asking for blood analysis once a month and expecting that to be quarterly if the monthly counts remain in the 'normal' range. I guess I am now in the 'acceptance' stage of dealing with this disease. Thanks again to all who have posted info.