A 30 Year Journey with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: What You Can Expect!: From Essential Thrombocythemia to Polycythemia Vera - Includes information on Myelofibrosis and Acute Myeloid Leukemia
This book is based on my journals over the last 15 years and medical records since 1991. My book is different. In my journaling, I share sad and humorous stories to help you understand limitations associated with MPN's. You will find everything you need to understand your diagnosis. I have included current treatments available, and a list of MPN specialists across the United States and the globe. Enclosed is a detailed description of my bone marrow biopsies, taken 25 years apart, and their stark differences. I go over my therapeutic phlebotomies and the definitions of the necessary bloodwork your doctor will review frequently. You'll find great detail about the Jak 2 V617F mutation and your Allele Burden- the ratio between mutant and normal levels of the mutation. I touch on inherited chromosomes and how they relate to MPN. I will discuss the different symptoms associated with each Essential Thrombocythemia, Polycythemia Vera, Myelofibrosis and Acute Myeloid Leukemia. I do cover a few new MPN's not listed on the cover. I include the answers to all the questions I have asked my doctors over the years, such as drug side effects verses the disease side effects. One of the worst being chronic fatigue. I cover new drugs and clinical studies and best of all, I have a chapter on grant programs and financial assistance. I cover vitamins, diets and anemia. You will find yourself or your loved one in my book. I pour out my heart in the journal when symptoms start affecting my quality of life. All that changed when my doctor prescribed a new drug for me. I feel happy and optimistic. I will share laughter and whimsical but relevant quotes. While I'm filling your mind with information, I hope to fill your soul with enthusiasm to continue to learn about your own personal journey.
I was never told about jak2 mutation or the importance of parental family genes. I loved reading the story about the 2 bone marrow biopsies and therapeutic phlebotomy. There is so much clear information.