Transplantation is a one-to-one process – you aren’t saving just anyone, you’re saving a specific person – someone who shares the same genetic characteristics – and you could someday meet them. Many of our donors and recipient form friendships that last a lifetime.
Matches are based on Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA), a type of immune system factor that you inherit from your parents and your ancestors. Because the human race is so diverse, the best chance of matching someone’s HLA profile is if they share a similar ancestry to yours. The person you help is most likely to come from your same ethnic or ancestral group.
Not every ethnic group is equally represented in the registry, which means many patients are unable to find a matching donor. Only 25 percent of patients with African ancestry find their match because the registry itself is not as diverse as the population. We need everyone to swab so every patient has their best chance of finding a donor within the window of time when a transplant can save their life.
Thousands of patients are searching right now for donors – from babies to children to moms and dads and grandparents. Every time someone swabs and joins the registry, their chance of finding a match goes up. Give hope to someone today and swab your cheek.
Our donors say that giving stem cells or bone marrow to save someone’s life was the experience of a lifetime, and they wouldn’t give it up for anything. Many of them feel a profound change in their outlook, and a deeper connection to other people. Some affirm their religious convictions, while some decide to pursue career or life changes. We know your heart and soul will be richer for the experience.