- Factor V Leiden
- Interviews
CJ's interview
How did all start?
Older half brother passed away from complications of Polycythemia Vera in 2013, which I had no clue of his disease. I had Sepsis in 2012 and had issue with pic line being plugged for blood draws. Was told several times while hospitalized man you sure have thick blood. Had no clue at that point I had Factor V Leiden. After his death we put it together his disease and my thick blood issue the year before. Got tested for Polycythemia Vera, that was negative, but tested positive for FVL.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
No precious diagnosis. 10 days for results of blood test.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
FVL. Warfarin.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Being able to home test my blood.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Surgeries
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
No changes anywhere.
What things have you stopped doing?
Really cut back on Vitamin K containing foods and alcohol consumption.
What do you think about the future?
I can handle this.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
2014 to present. Moved to the Sonoran Desert and got off narcotic pain meds for arthritis. Enjoyed life to the fullest after suffering for near 30 years from arthritis.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
My blood condition has not changed my life.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Happiest I've been in near 30 years.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Don't let this condition take over your life, you can live your life to the fullest.
