Seeing a Gift of Life recruitment table at her company’s holiday party in 2018, Nicole knew she needed to join the registry. “I had an aunt pass away from cancer in 2014 and seeing the volunteers tugged at my heartstrings,” said Nicole. “It was an easy cheek swab to be added to the registry.” 

Four years later, Nicole, 28, was surprised to receive a call from Gift of Life saying that she was a match for a 58-year-old woman battling Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. She was excited, but also nervous. She had just started a new job. 

“It was Day Three at the job, and I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to make it work given I had just started,” said Nicole. “My employer graciously gave me three days off without using my PTO, given the nature of the ask.” 

After a blood test to confirm that she was a match, Nicole was on her way to Boca Raton, Fla. to donate. Ninety percent of donations are peripheral blood stem cell donation (PBSC). Donors preparing for this type of donation will receive five injections of Neupogen to encourage stem cells to enter the blood stream. Neupogen has been used safely to prepare donors for more than 25 years. 

On the day of the donation, a car service was sent to pick up Nicole and a friend who accompanied her to the Adelson Collection Center. 

“The needles were uncomfortable, but it was a small price to pay to give someone the gift of life,” said Nicole. “Donating was easy though. My friend and I watched Netflix, did some reading, and enjoyed some snacks and a good lunch. The Gift of Life staff was really friendly and kind and made sure I was comfortable. I felt great the next day. I even ran five miles!” 

Nicole feels proud to have donated, and a few friends and family have joined the registry.

“Donating is a worthwhile experience,” said Nicole. “It affords someone more time with their family and loved ones.” 

Nicole, 28, is a graduate of the University of South Florida. She now lives in Tampa, Fla. where she works as a brand strategist. In her free time, Nicole enjoys skiing, running, reading, and enjoying a cocktail with her friends. 

Nicole's swab kit was sponsored by the LionTree Donor Circle.