Anyone donated bone marrow/stem cell

[sparkle789]

I had an email today saying I'm a potential match for someone. I've spoken to the registry and booked a blood test with my doctors.

What is the next step after they receive my blood sample?

I've suddenly gone very nervous.

[Twitterqueen]

Wow! That's amazing! I would be incredibly proud if I were you.

I haven't done it myself but as far as I understand it, the process is pretty simple these days. 3 or 4 hours in hospital, but dressed and sitting, with an 'in' tube and an 'out' tube. And I think injections for 5 days prior to stimulate the cells.

[Twitterqueen]

sorry, you asked about next steps. I don't know those - only the actual donation process.

It was life-saving for the person I knew.

[beepbeep]

my nephew gave bone marrow, he was in theatre for not long at all while it was taken from him, then he was a bit sore for a few days afterwards. He had to be careful health wise for a while whilst his immune system build up again. He saved a life, for a bit of discomfort I think it's worth it!

try contacting Anthony Nolan, they should be able to talk you through it.

[Westcountrygemini]

I've had this a couple of times. Basically, they do a blood test and, then, ime, another one a few weeks later if the first one proved you are a decent match. Both times, they haven't taken it further with me but have asked me not to have acupuncture, a tattoo, other 'stuff' which might interfere with your blood for a few months whilst they decide if they want you to actually donate.

As I got quite close last time, I asked them what happens at donation time. They reassured me that most times it's as described above, rarely these days is it any more invasive than a few hours in hospital, sat in a chair, giving blood.

Hope that helps out your mind at rest.