donating marrow

Thread view:

Enable EMail Alerts

Start New Thread

Thread rating:

LarryM - 23 Apr 2004 02:28 GMT

Seems like this is such an easy thing to be a part of, but there's
seemingly a lack of promotion. Or at least I think there is. Tell me
if I'm wrong. I'm speaking of the US.

I used to give blood as often as I could. I was a popular O+ guy.
Now that I'm a lymphoma-head, they want my blood anymore! And I don't
blame em either! ;-)

But anyway, to test for bone marrow, they just need an extra vial of
blood, as I understand it. Classify it - make a database entry -
done. Why not ask everyone who gives if they'd like to register in
the national marrow registry? That's what I don't get. Why not
promote the heck out of it. Everyone who's gonna need a BM transplant
sure would appreciate it!

Anyone know? More familiar with this topic than I am?

There's some donor info here if you'd like to read about it.
http://www.marrow.org/DONOR/donor_information_idx.html

I'm gonna check into it and see where my wife can get registered.
--
"Even as a survivor I'm still fighting cancer!"
Larry @ www.gotCancer.org

Reply to this Message

Tom McCune - 23 Apr 2004 03:09 GMT

<snip>

> But anyway, to test for bone marrow, they just need an extra vial of
> blood, as I understand it. Classify it - make a database entry -
> done. Why not ask everyone who gives if they'd like to register in
> the national marrow registry? That's what I don't get. Why not
> promote the heck out of it. Everyone who's gonna need a BM transplant
> sure would appreciate it!

<snip>

Because of my history, my wife is on the list. If I remember correctly,
the problem is that even the preliminary testing is very expensive, and
most people will just never be a match for anyone needing a donor. It's a
shame, but somehow this has to be funded.

Signature

Tom McCune, Holland Patent, New York
CLL Dx: 7/88, CHOP: 1989, Auto BMT: 1/90, Considered Cured: 10/99
My CLL Page: http://www.McCune.cc/CLL.htm

Reply to this Message

LarryM - 23 Apr 2004 03:43 GMT

><snip>
>> But anyway, to test for bone marrow, they just need an extra vial of
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
>most people will just never be a match for anyone needing a donor. It's a
>shame, but somehow this has to be funded.

You're right - I just found this page -
http://www.marrow.org/HELP/cost_join.html

Up to US$96 for the test. It is fully tax deductible, so it will
effectively lower the cost out of pocket.
--
"Even as a survivor I'm still fighting cancer!"
Larry @ www.gotCancer.org

Reply to this Message