While studying abroad at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2013, Aron swabbed his cheek to join Gift of Life’s marrow registry. 

“Signing up to donate was an easy choice to make,” said Aron. “I considered it an important part of my religious identity to help others when we can.”

Almost ten years later, Aron was attending a wedding in Virginia when he received a call from Gift of Life staff, informing him that he had matched with a 27-year-old woman battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. 

“My spouse, Sara, was very excited and encouraging when I got the call,” said Aron. 

After a blood test to confirm that he was the best match for the patient, Gift of Life coordinated with Aron to bring him and his wife to Boca Raton, Fla. so he could donate at the Adelson Collection Center. Ninety percent of donations are peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC). 

“The collection center and staff were amazing,” said Aron. “The stem cell donation process was much faster than I expected. I mostly just talked with Sara and we watched Castlevania on Netflix which was a great distraction.” 

In the United States, donors and recipients must remain anonymous for the first year after the transplant. After that, if both agree, they may exchange contact information and be introduced in person. 

“I would like to meet my recipient, if they’re willing to do so,” said Aron. 

After hearing about his donation experience, many members of Aron’s family and friends have signed up. 

“I would encourage as many folks to sign up as possible,” said Aron. “I’ve found in many cases, people simply don’t know how significant their donation can be. If you can change someone’s life for the better and have a unique experience, then why not register?”

Aron, 30, is a Ph. D. student at University of California, Davis having already attended Azusa Pacific University and Princeton Theologica Seminary. He now lives in Zephyr Cove, Nev., with his wife Sara and their 3-year-old son. In his free time, Aron enjoys reading, playing the cello, and hiking. 

Aron’s swab kit was sponsored by the Weiser Family Donor Circle.