How to save a life donating your blood stem cells
Some cancer patients need blood stem cells to rebuild their immune systems. These cells can usually be collected from your blood. Sometimes, they’re drawn from bone marrow donation.
Could you be a match?
Blood type, ethnicity, age and weight matter when it comes to compatibility.
Family is a good place to start
But some patients can’t find a match in their family.
Just about anyone can register
Most donors are under age 60; a simple cheek swab DNA test starts the matching process.
Registering is just the first step
You have about a 1 in 40 chance of being contacted for additional testing for a possible match.
Few end up donating
About 1 in 400 will actually match for a donation.
You donate stem cells at a clinic
Your blood goes through a machine that collects stem cells, then returns the blood to your body.
Donating marrow takes same-day surgery
While you’re under anesthesia, doctors take liquid marrow from your pelvic bone.
Register to save a life
A relatively small investment of your time could mean a lifetime for someone who needs your help.
Guidance from the physicians, nurses and specialists at the Mayo Clinic Transplant Center.
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