ITP Warrior - Kaitlyn

My ITP journey began when I was diagnosed about 7 years ago. At the time, I was still pretty young and didn’t fully understand what the diagnosis meant. I was referred to a specialist who told me that my platelet counts were low but expected the condition would likely resolve as I got older. Because my counts were usually stable and never dangerously low, the approach was mostly just monitoring them over time. I have visited many hematologists in the meantime with no true answers as to what causes my ITP.

Even though we initially thought it might go away as I got older, it never fully resolved. Over the years my platelet counts have fluctuated, with the lowest being around 30,000 but overall, they have remained stable enough that my doctors and I have focused on careful monitoring. Right now, I am learning to live with ITP while also becoming more open about it. After my 19th birthday, I visited another specialist who confirmed what I had known for years—that I still had ITP.

Today, I’m in my junior year of college studying animal science on a pre-veterinary track and preparing to apply to veterinary school. I still have good days and harder days with my health, but I’m working toward my goals and learning how to manage my condition along the way. One of the biggest challenges has been the uncertainty that comes with fluctuating platelet counts and not always knowing how my body will feel from day to day. Another challenge has been keeping the diagnosis mostly to myself for many years. Living with ITP has taught me resilience and patience, and it has also helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy for others who are dealing with health conditions. I wish I had known earlier that it's okay to talk about what you're going through. For a long time, I kept my diagnosis very private.

Looking back, I realize that sharing my experience could have helped me feel less alone and maybe even helped others understand the condition better. Sharing ITP stories helps bring awareness to a condition that many people have never heard of. It also helps people living with ITP feel less isolated. When people share their experiences, it creates a community where others can learn, relate, and feel supported. One thing that has helped me is focusing on activities that keep me grounded and connected to my goals, especially my passion for animals. Spending time learning about veterinary medicine and working toward becoming a veterinarian gives me something positive to focus on and reminds me that ITP doesn't define my future. Living with ITP has definitely shaped how I see both health and resilience. While it didn't change my passion for animals, it has given me a deeper appreciation for medicine and caring for others. As someone pursuing veterinary medicine, I think my own experience with a chronic condition has helped me develop empathy and understanding that will make me a more compassionate veterinarian in the future.

What lessons, encouragement, or advice would you offer others with ITP?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you are more than your diagnosis. Living with ITP can feel uncertain at times, especially when platelet counts fluctuate or when you don’t always know how your body will feel day to day. But having ITP doesn’t mean you can’t pursue your goals or live the life you want.

I would also encourage others not to be afraid to talk about their experiences. For a long time, I kept my diagnosis very private, but I’ve realized that sharing your story can be empowering. It helps spread awareness and can also help others who may feel like they’re going through it alone.

Most importantly, listen to your body and give yourself grace on the days that are harder. There will be good days and challenging days, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t strong or capable. Keep focusing on the things that inspire you and the goals that motivate you, because ITP does not define who you are or what you are capable of achieving.

Interested in sharing your journey with ITP? Submit your ITP story here. (Full names and contact information will not be shared).