Rock star’s charity aims to double its number on stem cell register
The Love Hope Strength Foundation (LHS), led by rock star Mike Peters and his wife, Jules, is dedicated to increasing the number of stem cell donors on international registries. Through their new One in a Million campaign, they aim to double the number of registered donors over the next two years. Having already inspired 250,000 individuals to register in collaboration with DKMS, LHS is now reaching out to more potential donors to provide potentially life-saving matches for blood cancer patients worldwide.
This week, Mike and Jules have undertaken numerous media interviews, encouraging people to join the UK stem cell donor register. The launch of their One in a Million campaign has also featured in print and online news headlines right across the UK.
For Mike, frontman of rock band The Alarm, the One in a Million campaign holds deep personal significance. Diagnosed nearly 30 years ago with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), he now faces an urgent need for a stem cell transplant following a recent diagnosis of Richter’s Syndrome, a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma. “Imagine if you could help someone by being their ‘One in a Million’ life-saving match,” he says. “We all search for some kind of legacy, and what a legacy this could be. Being a donor requires so little effort, and the reward is immense.”
Though Mike was close to preparing for a transplant, the setback delayed the procedure, highlighting the critical importance of finding a match for patients like him. Mike remains hopeful, exploring options that could bridge him to potentially transformative therapies. "The future is uncertain," he says, “but I want to make sure I help other blood cancer sufferers like me.”
Jules, chair of LHS, also supports the One in a Million mission. “During this difficult time, we want to put our energy into helping others find that perfect match’” she says. “So please donate a cheek swab and get on the list to help a stranger. If we can boost the register by another 250,000 people, imagine the impact this legacy will have.”
If you’re between 17 and 55, you can register online in a few simple steps and get a swab kit delivered to your home. Each new addition to the register could be the match that gives someone a second chance at life, making One in a Million more than just a campaign — it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.