@jodyjazz Hi Jody, sounds like you’re doing really well! As you read everyone’s posts, I’m sure you’ve noticed that we all have different experiences relating to our blood cancers and meds taken. I was first diagnosed at age 45. At that time, the Jack 2 enzyme had not been discovered yet so the doctors ran every test imaginable and if those came back normal except for your platelets still being high, you were diagnosed with essential thrombocythemia. Due to my age, the doctor wanted to hold off as long as possible before I started hydroxyuria. Since I didn’t have symptoms, except for occasional eye migraines, I was able to hold off starting treatment for 5 years. Once my platelets reached 1 million, I started having eye flashes and was getting more eye migraines. So, at age 50, I started taking Hydroxyuria. I also take 81 mg. of aspirin daily. I think many of us have symptoms of being extra tired. I am eternally grateful that there are medications that can treat our disorders! Although these meds can carry side effects, without them, I wouldn’t be here. It’s interesting though, Hydrea was originally used to treat women with ovarian cancer. It’s not used for that anymore, however, the side effect of the medication is that it lowers blood platelets. Another cool thing about Hydrea is that it’s also used for sickle cell anemia! It’s pretty amazing what medications can do!