You may find that despite having the JAK2 mutation, your life may not be any noticeably different. I'm now on three years with a diagnosis of polycythemia vera and other than monthly blood lab work and regular phlebotomies, my life has remained relatively unchanged. I'm still very active -- I am still able to work as a soccer referee. You can go for decades managing the condition without having any significant changes in your health and the way you feel. Support your overall general health by eating well, getting exercise, and simply taking care of yourself.