"I feel privileged that I have been able to do this for someone"

Claire registered as a blood stem cell donor in 2013/14 after seeing a patient appeal. Earlier this year she received the call to say she was a match for a patient. Here, she kindly shares her experience with us.

Claire's donation experience

I registered myself and my husband with DKMS in 2013/14 after I saw an appeal for a toddler who needed a bone marrow transplant. I received and returned the swabs and, to be honest, forgot all about it until April 2018 when I got a phone call saying that I had been matched with a patient who needed a stem cell donation. The process from that point was surprisingly easy for me, the procedure was clearly explained, appointments were made around my availability and I was reassured by all of the precautions in place to ensure that the health of both myself and recipient were carefully considered.In all my dealings with the clinic, I found the staff extremely friendly and helpful.

I donated via Perihperal Blood Stem Cell collection (PBSC) and, although I am notoriously difficult to get a cannula in, my wonderful nurse had some great tactics to make it easier and relatively painfree. I was entertained throughout the process by the ipads in the hospital and the lunch was amazing!

Afterwards, all I was left with was a bruise on one arm which I can hardly complain about considering what the recipient must be going though.

I feel privileged that I have been able to do this for someone and hope the person who received my donation is now on the road to recovery. Thank you DKMS! X"

Hats off to Claire for her altruistic act. She has given someone the best gifts of all - a second chance at life!

We couldn't do what we do without people like you and Claire.

How you can help

If you've been inspired by Claire's story, you can request a free swab kit to register as a potentail blood stem cell donor today. If you're not eligible, or would like to help in other ways, there are plenty of activities for you to get involved in!