What does stem cell donation involve?
So it all starts with a simple saliva swab which is sent off and within a few weeks you are contacted to find out if you are accepted. Then you remain on the register until you are contacted again letting you know that a patient requires stem cells. You can donate via bone marrow or Peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC), which is the more common method, where blood is drawn from one arm and the stem cells are filtered from the blood within a special machine and then the blood returns into your body via the other arm.
Who will the donation benefit?
The donation benefits people who have blood cancer or diagnosed blood disorders, for some it could be their last chance at survival.
How does it make you feel, making a difference to people’s lives?
I would say it gives you a great sense of achievement and an overwhelmingly positive outlook knowing that you can give another human being the best fighting chance at life.
What would you say to people who are considering stem cell or other donations?
I would seriously urge everyone to consider registering to become a potentially lifesaving stem cell donor or even just a regular blood donator. The process is so straightforward, and a donor coordinator is with you every step of the way for support. The humble feeling of being able to help someone else in need can’t be put into words!
Our Chief Commercial Officer Sarah Robertson Goldsworthy shared these words after seeing our post about Daniel on LinkedIn
My dad had a stem cell transplant about 2 – 2.5 years ago, and he genuinely would be dead if it wasn’t for the likes of Daniel who selflessly donate. It is really touching to read the piece and great to increase awareness. Although dad had to go through absolutely horrendous inpatient chemo and spent weeks/months in hospital, he is still with us today which is quite frankly a miracle and I am grateful of that every single day. So thank you for sharing, and a massive thank you to Daniel. The difference these donors make is indescribable, not just to the patient, but to the family too.
How do I become a donor?
You can find out more on the British Bone Marrow Registry website.
