When I was 71 I was told I had CLL. I requested medication after 10 months of seeing my WBC count increase to 75,000. I had read about the different medications and the different methods used to "control" those bad cells. I think doctors do not prescribe medication because a pill can cost $125. My doctor got me a co-pay grant for $4,000 to pay my co-pay of $3,400. All medications list odd ill affects but my first year no ill affects. The second year I had a strange cough and my doctors could not help me. After 7 months of coughing I stopped taking my pills and the cough stopped. I just began the pills again at 50% dose and no cough. I read the paper work and cough, high blood pressure are now listed as possible ill affects. All my blood test indicate 100% normal and my WBC count is 7,300. I know the medication will work until the cells mutate and control is lost. I know the medication works because of the BTK inhibitor that attaches to the bad cells and inactivates the bad cells. This medication does not effect good cells or organs. When I got the medication I had learned the medication was good for 3 to 5 years. A new study has determined the medication is good for 10 to 20 years. I realize our illness is a long term issue with or without medication. We choose what we want to do to help our health. I hope you can find the information you require to make a healthy choice. I hope your holidays are happy and healthy. Celebrating Long Life (CLL)