Things I have learned about bone marrow transplants

[jaderabbit]

1. Registering online at the National Marrow Donor Registry is pretty easy doesn't take very long. I did it last Thursday.

2. Thanks to a new technology called PBSC, sometimes the needed stem cells can be harvested through a procedure not unlike donating blood or platelets. No anesthesia needed. An old friend of mine is eligible for a bone marrow

Comments

[kino_kid]

I just found your blog!

I would like to add that 70% of donations are now done using PBSC, but the traditional method is also not as bad as people think.

If you know anyone reading who lives in another country, they can still help your friend find a match (or they can match someone else). Searches begin locally, then expand if there is no one nearby.

[jaderabbit]

That's good to hear. I admit that I was a little nervous about the idea of a traditional-method harvest--not because of the marrow tap itself, but because of the general anesthesia. If I ever match with someone who needs that, though, I will talk with the docs about the options and the safety. I had a spinal block for my C-section, and that was fine.

I am actually very moved by the outpouring I've seen for my friend awaiting transplant. Someone has organized a marrow drive, and many of our former classmates have been posting on Facebook that they've sent in their swabs. If we can't help him, we can at least help someone.

[kino_kid]

Firstly, let me know what I can do to help your friend. I am on Facebook and can put the word out to them through my friends, group and page. The pages for Emru have always existed to help others too, and I hope they will continue to. It helps if you can tell me what their ethnic background is

[jaderabbit]

I'm nowhere near Montreal, but I did talk to my mother-in-law about bone marrow transplants today. She was surprised at how easy it's become.