Registering as a stem cell donor is one of the easiest ways to make a real difference in someone’s life. Every year, thousands of Australians are diagnosed with conditions like chronic myeloid leukaemia and hodgkin lymphoma, and for many, a stem cell transplant is their only chance at survival.
If you’re aged 18-35 and in good health, you could be the match that saves a life. The process is simple – a quick online form and a cheek swab are all it takes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to sign up and why it matters.
What Is a Stem Cell Transplant?
A stem cell transplant is a life-saving treatment for people with blood cancer and other blood disorders. It involves replacing damaged or diseased stem cells with healthy ones from a donor. Some patients can use their own cells (autologous transplant), but most need a donor to give them a second chance at life.
Why Stem Cell Donors Are Needed
Over 85% of stem cells used in Australian transplants come from overseas because there aren’t enough local donors. That means patients often wait longer than they should to find a match. The more donors we have on the registry, the better the chances that someone in need will find a life-saving match right here in Australia.
How to Register as a Stem Cell Donor
Steps to Register as a Stem Cell Donor
Signing up is ridiculously easy and only takes a few steps:
- Check if you’re eligible
You need to be aged 18-35, in good health, and have a Medicare card (or be eligible for one). - Sign up online
Head to Stem Cell Donors Australia and fill out the quick registration form. - Swab your cheek
Once you sign up, you’ll get a kit with a few cheek swabs in the mail. Follow the simple instructions, swab the inside of your cheek, and send it back using the pre-paid envelope. - Stay on the registry
Once your swab is processed, you’ll be on the registry until you turn 60. If you’re ever matched with a patient, you’ll be contacted for further testing.
What Happens if You’re a Match?
The Donation Process
If you’re one of the lucky 1 in 1,500 people who get called to donate, you’ll be given all the info and support you need. There are two ways to donate:
- Peripheral Blood Stem Cell (PBSC) Donation
This is the most common method, similar to a long plasma donation. You’ll get a few injections over a few days to boost your stem cell count, then your blood is drawn, stem cells are collected, and the rest of your blood goes right back into your body. - Bone Marrow Donation
This method is used in some cases and involves collecting stem cells directly from your bone marrow while you’re under anaesthesia. You won’t feel anything during the procedure, but your bum cheeks might be a little sore for a few days afterward.
Myth-Busting: Is Stem Cell Donation Painful?
Does Stem Cell Donation Hurt?
Not really! PBSC donation is basically like a long plasma donation, and while you might feel a bit tired, most donors are back to normal the next day. Bone marrow donation might leave you feeling a bit bruised, but it’s nothing that a few days of rest won’t fix. And let’s be real – a bit of soreness is a small price to pay for saving someone’s life!
The Impact of Signing Up
Why Your Registration Matters
By signing up, you could be the one to give someone with blood cancer a fighting chance. Even if you’re never called to donate, just being on the registry increases the odds that someone else will find their match.
Ready to Sign Up?
Take Action Today
Joining the stem cell donor registry is one of the most powerful things you can do. If you’re aged 18-35, visit Stem Cell Donors Australia and get started today.
Be a legend – sign up now and help save a life.
References
- Australian Government – National Health and Medical Research Council. Understanding Stem Cell Transplants
- Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Stem Cell Transplants
- Blood Cancer UK. What is a Stem Cell Transplant?