I was diagnosed with ITP at the age of 18 while I was pregnant with my daughter. Throughout my pregnancy I received over 50 platelet transfusions due to my low platelet count, the lowest dropping to 14. After my pregnancy I had a full work up - spleen ct scan, bone marrow biopsy, which all turned out to be within normal limits.

I was put on various dosages of Prednisone, between 5mg - 20mg, for over 4 years until my second pregnancy. During that pregnancy, the plan of action was different. I was on 10mg of Prednisone up until 36 weeks. At that time my platelet count would not go over 70. So I ended up going through two rounds of IVIG which brought my platelets up to 100 and I was then induced.

For the next 7 years, I took Prednisone on a daily basis. I endured every side effect possible - fatigue, weight gain, and the worst of all not being able to sleep as my body was so wired.

I had to have a procedure 3 years ago which provided complications due to my ITP. My hemoglobin dropped to 7 and my platelet count was at 50. I had to have a STAT platelet & blood transfusions at the same time. My body went into shock and was placed in ICU for 3 days.

My journey/ life changed 1.5 years ago when my amazing hematologist advised me on a new drug called Promacta. I’ve been on Promacta 50 mg for about 1 year and a half and my platelet count has varied from 150-300. In the last 10 years, l’ve never seen these numbers.

Now I feel better, l’ve become active and feel better than ever. Couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, but most importantly my husband who stood by me through it all.