To join the Be The Match Registry, all you have to do is get a cheek swab. Then, be ready, willing and available to donate if you’re identified as someone’s match.
There are a lot of misconceptions out there. One is about the actual donation procedure. Depending on the match and what the patient needs, there are two ways to donate: collecting bone marrow from the back of your hip and collecting blood from your arm.
When you donate, you’re under general anesthesia and feel no pain. Some donors do say that they were a little sore or stiff immediately after donation, but most say they would absolutely donate again. Their reason: a little discomfort is worth it when you could save a life.
As a community, we have an incredible opportunity to take care of each other through Be The Match. What if it was your children, parents, siblings, cousins or friends looking for a match? Every new potential donor on the registry represents a potential cure and a potential life saved. You could be the cure – visit BeTheMatch.org to join the registry and save a life like mine.
I never thought I would put my professional skills to work as an advocate for bone marrow donation – but I’m glad I did. My bone marrow transplant might help save my life.