Bone Marrow Registry

[ExAFO 0]

I was thinking of adding my name to the bone marrow donor registry. Has anyone here already done so? How does it work?

Thx

Illinois needs a CCW Law. NOW.

[kbordson 8]

I have. It was quite easy. I just was in for a regular donation and mentioned that I wanted to do that. They just took an extra tube of blood and sent it off. That easy. The registry is very good at sending out occasional notices to remind me that I need to contact them if I change my mind or move or whatever. Haven't been contacted yet for any bone marrow donations, but will be here if they need it.

[kenz 0]

i would check into what specific organization you're looking to donate to - some are free and some cost about $60 to register - either way it's for a GREAT cause - that list helped save my friends life :)

i haven't been able to do so yet - but will in the next few months :)

"life does throw curveballs sometimes but it doesn't mean we shouldn't still swing for the homerun" ~ me

[slotperfect 7]

I have as well. I even got a call to go to "step two" for a potential recipient. That case resulted in a better match coming from another donor and I never made the trip to get the big needle.

Arrive Safely

John

[ypelchat 0]

Quote

I was thinking of adding my name to the bone marrow donor registry. Has anyone here already done so? How does it work?

Thx

My brother has Multiple Myeloma cancer. He's been fighting the disease, since october 2004. As soon as a compatible donor is found, he'll undergo a bone marrow graft, which, hopefully, will help save his life.
Adding your name to the bone marrow registry is quite simple. When you go to give blood, just tell them you want you name added to the bone marrow registry. They may take a few blood sample, and send the samples to a laboratory, where the bone marrow tests are made. At this point, your name is added to the bone marrow registry. In the event that your blood type, matches the blood type of someone who's on the recipients list, you will be given an appointment, where a more through blood sampling will be made, to make sure you're compatible with the potential recipient. If this test is positive (which means your blood type is compatible) you will be asked if you're willing to donate your bone marrow. At this point, it's up to you.

If you say YES, then the recipient will receive powerful chemotherapy that will DESTROY his own cancerous bone marrow, and immune system, as well. After this chemotherapy, the recipient MUST receive your bone marrow, or the recipient will die, because his immune system has been destroyed by the chemotherapy, and can only be rebuilt with the help of your bone marrow graft. This is a very important decision for the recipient. Once you say YES, you can not back down.


http://www.marrow.org/DONOR/abcs_of_donation.html

Yves.

[staceyg 0]

I've been a registered marrow donor sonce 1995, but have not been called to donate yet. Periodically, I check with the Registry to make sure they haven't lost my info.
It's a wonderful thing you're considering! Go to: www.marrow.org to find your closet center.

Peace,
Stacey