HOW TO BECOME A POTENTIAL
BONE MARROW OR STEM CELL DONOR

In Memory of Vrushali Ranadive

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

National Bone Marrow Registry - the official NMDP registry web site

1. Get yourself typed.

• Call the local donor center nearest to you and tell them you would like to get HLA typed.
  To find the nearest center call:
  800-MARROW2
  800-627-7692

  For the Seattle area call Puget Sound Blood Center 800-366-2831 ext. 1897

• If you are a minority, there is currently no charge for typing provided you sign a consent form and agree to go in the NMDP registry. Typing costs are paid by a grant.

2. Encourage your family members and friends to get typed.

3. Arrange a drive in your community

• Contact your local donor center.

• Tell them you would like to arrange a drive for a group. Ask them to send you an information packet, brochures and publicity material. Information sessions, publicity, and personal campaigns are essential for a successful drive.

• Your local center or others who have arranged such drives will be happy to help you and will guide you in arranging the drive.

HELPFUL HINTS:

• At a function or gathering which draws big crowds, arrange a 20-30 minute information session, preferably 2 to 3 weeks prior to the date of the drive. Include a NMDP video, short statements by representatives from the local blood center, someone who has already registered as a volunteer, and if possible a patient or donor.

• At the information session have brochures and handouts. Announce the date, time, and the place of the drive and have a sign-up sheet.

• Follow up with the people who have signed up - conduct personal appeals by telephone and mail a flyer with drive information.

• Work out the logistics and details of the drive day with the local center.

I welcome your comments and suggestions.
Bob Farmer - robert.farmer@comcast.net

Last Updated on 05/25/04