Heartaches and Miracles

Heartaches and Miracles has been revised and updated
April 2005 - the beginning of my ITP journey. I had no idea which way was up. My body had started doing some very weird things for some unknown reason, and no one could tell me why.

I was diagnosed with an autoimmune blood disorder called ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia). For some unknown reason, my immune system had begun to destroy the platelets in my bloodstream, therefore preventing my blood from clotting properly. I found out there were no cures for ITP, but there were treatments.

Since then, I have researched ITP and spoken with many people who also suffer from this chronic blood disease. As a result, I've learned a lot about platelets, IVIGs, CBC's, corticosteroids, relapses, and other factors that will continue to play a significant role in my well-being for the rest of my life.

I kept a journal chronicling my experiences, detailing the treatments along with the mental, emotional, and psychological highs and lows associated with the successes and failures. Then, in 2010, I combined all that information into a book to share it with others who are also fighting this illness.

There have been many tremendous changes since the first edition of Heartaches and Miracles was published. Advances in medications, treatments, and overall approaches to combating ITP have necessitated an updated 2022 version of my book. I'm sure this edition will be outdated in a few years. However, that's good news - there will be more progress to write about!

Most of my memoir remains the same, though. It's a combination of autobiography, stories from other ITPers, research information, and pep talk for anyone suffering from ITP or for family members and friends who want to understand the roller coaster ride of steroids and other types of medications and treatments. It can be a hard road filled with relapses and disappointments, but with a positive attitude and support from friends and family, there is hope.

ITP no longer controls our lives. With support from fellow ITPers, we are in charge.
I Have ITP. It Does Not Have Me!