Please Help-Bone Marrow Transplant

I just received a comment on my blog from a fellow blogger asking for help because her friend's daughter needs a bone marrow transplant.  She has been diagnosed with a rare blood disease that will most likely progress to leukemia if untreated, but faces an 80% chance of cure with a bone marrow transplant.  None of her family members are a match, and there is only 1 potential match on the donor registry.  I don't know this blogger or this family, but I feel the need to share this story, and I encourage each and every one of you who are able to consider registering to be a bone marrow donor.  All you have to do is a simple cheek swab to get tested, and they will determine if you are a match. If you can do something this easy and possibly save someone's life...why wouldn't you?  It won't cost you anything, but really can save a life.  

You are eligible to be a donor if you meet the following:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 55
• Be in good general health
• Weigh more than 110lbs but not exceed BMI 40
• Not be HIV positive or have AIDS
• Not have had heart surgery or heart disease
• Not have an autoimmune disorders such lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis
• Not have sleep apnea, breathing problems or sever asthma (daily inhalers are acceptable)
• Not have diabetes requiring insulin
• Not have hepatitis B or C
• Not have a stroke (including TIA)
• Not have chronic or severe neck or back problems
• Not have epilepsy or have a had a seizure within one year
• Not have a blood clot or a bleeding disorder
• Not have a personal history of cancer (melanoma, breast, bladder, and cervical cancer)

Donors can request kits from around the country on their website https://www.dkmsamericas.org/register.  They will receive their free kit within 3 business days. 

If you are interested in helping this family, go to their FB page.  You can ask to receive more information about donating here, make a monetary donation if you are able, and stay updated on the current situation.  

Check out Haley's story here to lean more.