I was a bone marrow donor July 22, 2004 and here is my story....

In the summer of 2003 I was notified from the NMDP that I was a possible match for someone needing a stem cell transplant. After later completing the blood work and physical, I was put off 3 seperate times due to the recipient not achieving remission. In February I was then notified that there would not be this procedure because the patient was still not in remission and that they would be trying a new protocol to get his disease into remission, so I was then put back into the registry.

Although disappointed that I could not help this individual, I prayed that they would find a cure for his disease.

In May of 2004, I was notified once more that I was a potential match for another person needing a transplant. This time it would be a bone marrow transplant, not a stem cell transplant. Once again, I was tested thoughoughly and was a 5/6 match. I was notified on June 1st of this news and mailed my consent on June 2nd. Unlike the first transplant being put off several times, this young man's transplant was only put off once due to his numbers just not being right for the preparation for transplant and the date was set for July 22.

I approached this date with anticipation but little fear because I knew that I was doing this for the right reason. So, on the morning of July 22 the transplant took place. I have to say that this was the most profound thing that I have ever done in my life.

Unfortunately, I was notified in December that my recipient had relapsed and had chose not to do any more treatments, so a second transplant would not be needed. He died on December 16, 2004.

Since my transplant I am an advocate for all people to get tested to become a bone marrow donor. I am the team recruitment chairman for the American Cancer Society for the Relay for Life in our area and I used this organization to promote awareness for the need for individuals in need of a transplant. My goal is to someday have a bone marrow drive in our area to get more people in the registry.

My message to all who want to become a donor..........DO IT! This procedure is something that is not to be feared. There was little discomfort and the recovery time is minimal. Most of all the rewards for becoming a donor is priceless.

There are no guarantees in life and not all transplants are successes, but I am here to say that I have 2 friends that have benefited from such transplants......one being around 4 years and the other being over 10 years post transplant.

Kelle

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