National Bone Marrow Program (NDMP)

Today I did something I've been thinking about doing for a really long time, and I want to pass along some information to you.

I've heard so many stories of children and adults fighting some sort of disease in which they need a bone marrow transplant, but just can't seem to find a suitable donor. I've received requests from people to send positive thoughts to those dealing with leukemia and other conditions and are waiting for their donor to come around. Never once has anyone asked me to actually do something. I feel very strongly that if there is something I can do to help someone else, especially someone going through something I may never have to endure, I want to do everything I can for them. This can be taxing, but that's okay. So far I've been extremely blessed and I am obligated as a human being to help my neighbors when they are in need.

I've been thinking about bone marrow donation for several months now. Oddly enough, as Ryan and I were on our way into a store this morning, there was a Riley tent taking information and tissue typing from potential donors. Of course I signed up and went through the extremely easy and painless swabs (for tissue typing). Believe me, this was super easy - just fill out a few pages of health history and swab the inside of your cheeck with 4 q-tips. Done.

I know that should I ever be in the position to need a bone marrow transplant, I hope to God that someone out there will be willing enough to donate what they can to help me LIVE.  To be able to sleep at night, I need to know that I'm doing what I can for those who need me. I'm on the donor list - join me! Go to http://www.bethematch.org/ to learn more about the National Bone Marrow Drive and the National Bone Marrow Program Registry. If this feels right to you, then go to http://join.marrow.org/tyler to reigster as a bone marrow donor in honor of Tyler Genneken, an Indianapolis child fighting leukemia and bringing the National Bone Marrow Program in the spotlight.

We all know someone who is or has been affected by leukemia - why not take the step to see if you can help them physically, by being a bone marrow donor?