How to Register as a Potential Donor
Before you consider registering as a potential donor there are important factors to consider, namely age, health and your commitment. Prospective donors must be between the ages of 18 and 60. Generally speaking people with the AIDS virus, most autoimmune deficiencies, serious conditions which effect breathing, the heart, kidneys, spine and liver cannot register. A history of most cancers, diabetes which effects the heart, kidneys or eyes you will most likely keep you off the list too. There are other medical conditions that might red flag you, but with careful consideration and medical evaluation, you might still be able to move ahead. It's best to check the National Marrow Donor Program's website at www.bethematch.org for a more conclusive evaluation of your eligibility.
Once you've decided you're qualified to register as a potential donor, you should tell a couple of people close to you about your plans. It’s important to have backup contact numbers in case you move and the registry is having trouble finding you. You should also consider your level of commitment to the process of transplant. If you’re identified as the preferred match to go to transplant, at a minimum you’re looking at about a week off from work, school or whatever your daily routine involves. You’ll need further testing, and recovery time. You can still change your mind about donating up to a point before the scheduled transplant, but backing out or delaying on your part could waste valuable time and put the patient at risk. It’s best not to register if you don’t think you can follow through.
There are several ways to register as a potential donor. The preregistering process can be started on line at www.bethematch.org. The eventual tissue sampling involves a cheek swab, or having a small sample of blood drawn from your arm. Many people attend well-publicized registration drives that have been fully funded. Drive locations can be found by visiting www.bethematch.org and typing in your zip code. If there’s not a drive around you, you can check a list of recruitment centers. There are centers in 34 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Their locations are listed on www.bethematch.org too. You can also call 1-800-MARROW-2 for additional information about taking the step toward becoming a registered potential donor.