Would you make a promise to help?
As a member of the Stem Cell Registry, you can literally save someone’s life. New members are needed!
What is the Stem Cell Registry?
The Stem Cell Registry is used to find a suitable voluntary stem cell donor for severely ill patients. The Stem Cell Registry currently consists of 65,000 voluntary donors. Over the course of a year, approximately 40 of them will get the chance to save a human life. Donors are chosen based on tissue type.
Can I join the Stem Cell Registry?
To join the Stem Cell Registry, you need to be 18–35 years old and in good overall health. When you join, you undergo an examination to establish your tissue type. That information is then stored in the registry. When a donor is needed, the registry’s information is used to find the member with the best tissue type match for the patient. Joining the registry does not necessarily mean you will get the chance to donate stem cells.
How are stem cells donated?
There are two ways to donate stem cells: from circulating blood and from the bone marrow of your hip bone. The stem cell donation process is safe.
Stem cell donors are not rewarded for their donation, but all expenses related to the process are reimbursed.
Joni, who donated stem cells when he was 23, describes the experience as follows: “The best thing I’ve done in my life. I would absolutely take the opportunity to donate again.”
Everyone can help one way or another!
Do you know someone who needs a stem cell transplant? Share your experiences (for example, on social media) and help people understand why voluntary stem cell donors are needed. People join the registry because of awareness, encouragement and motivation gained from the stories of real people!