Children's Safety Zone
Arizona Bone Marrow Donor Drive
Keelin DePas Story
Children's Safety Zone
Arizona Bone Marrow Donor Drive
Keelin DePas Story
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You learn about marrow donation and give a small blood sample.
The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) Donor Center representatives inform you about becoming a volunteer donor and the donation process. After you consent to being listed in the Registry, you give 2-3 tablespoons of your blood. |
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Your human leukocyte antigen (HLA) type is determined and entered onto the
NMDP Registry.
Your blood is tested to determine its HLA type. The results are added to the NMDP's main computer, which is searched internationally on behalf of patients who need a marrow transplant. |
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You are contacted if a preliminary match is found.
If the computerized Registry indicates that your marrow may match any of the patients in need, your donor center coordinator informs you of your status and arranges additional testing. |
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A compatible match is identified.
Further testing may indicate that your precise HLA-type is compatible with the patient. Counselors provide you with detailed information about the marrow donation process and your options as a volunteer donor. You also receive a thorough physical examination. |
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You decide whether to donate.
After being fully informed about the donor experience, you make the decision -- with the support of your friends and loved ones -- to become a marrow donor. |
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A small amount of your marrow is collected.
In the hospital, marrow is extracted from the back of your pelvic bone using a special needle and syringe. You are under general anesthesia during this simple surgical procedure. |
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You recover quickly from the procedure.
Typically, you stay overnight in the hospital. After being discharged, you can resume normal activity, although you may experience some soreness for several days, a week or slightly longer. Your marrow naturally replenishes itself within a few weeks. |