I have had ITP for about 5 years, also hypothyroidism. The hypo is under control for the most part, with synthroid. I have been on prednisone for about 5 months. I started at 80mg/day then gradually to 20mg/day. My platelet count varied during this time, but usually was in the 60's range. As soon as they took me off of the prednisone it dropped to 26, so the doctor put me back on 40mg/day. It has been as low as 9 when I was first diagnosed which led to a week in the hospital. So, basically without prednisone my platelet count drops to dangerous levels. The doctors are considering a splenectomy. They mentioned another drug that they would like to try (can't remember the name!), it's a shot that I would get once a week or once every couple months if I respond well. However this drug costs several thousand dollars per dosage, I have no insurance, so I can't afford this treatment. I go back next week to see what they decided to do. I would like to hear from others who have had a splenectomy. I work in construction and I'm not sure how this will affect my ability to work. How long can I expect to be out of work? Will it affect my physical ability to do my job? Is there any sort of financial assistance available while I'm out of work?

I have not had a splenectomy but I did work for a hemotologist for a few years. Splenectomy is a last resort and you do not want to be on prednisone long term.
Typically a surgical procedure such as this can be a quick recovery when it does laproscopically. You may not need to take much time off of work.
Meanwhile, if you do not have health ins you probably do not have prescription coverage either. Check with the company that makes your Rx. Most companies offer a program that will pay in part or in full for the Rx.