Getting diagnosed with essential thrombocythemia (ET), a type of blood cancer, shortly after my 40th birthday was a shock. My mother had passed away from a long battle with brain cancer at age 40, leaving my sister and I behind at the same age my kids were when I was diagnosed – so there was a lot for me to process. I am beyond thankful for a wonderful family doctor who took my vague concerns seriously, a quick diagnosis and treatment plan from a specialist at the Kaye Clinic here in Edmonton, and my partner Mike who has been an absolute rock as I went through all the emotions.

Having ET means that your bone marrow makes too many platelets. My platelets were over 2 million, which is well above the normal range, so I needed to start taking hydroxyurea, a low-dose chemotherapy in pill form, right away. It has been very effective for me, although it does mean regular bloodwork to ensure my counts are staying where we want them. Luckily, I don’t really have any side effects from the hydroxyurea, and now that my platelets are lower I don’t have as many symptoms, either.

I was able to connect with other patients with ET through online forums, including the Canadian MPN Network Patient Advocacy Group. Groups like these are great for learning about new research being done, getting support, and finding answers to any questions we might have about living with these types of blood cancers. It was through the Canadian MPN Research Foundation that I discovered the fundraising trek, Sole to Soul for MPN. Being active and feeling strong in my mind and body are important for me living with ET, so I am excited for the adventure, and because this type of cancer is quite uncommon, I am also looking forward to meeting others with a similar diagnosis.

Special thanks to everyone who helped me reach my fundraising goal! I am confident that together we can improve treatments and quality of life for those living with these unusual blood cancers.

“Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.” – Roman poet, Horace