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Why aren't more young men on the bone marrow register?

(6 Posts)
Stansgran Fri 15-Apr-16 13:39:59

I was 60 when I donated stem cells. But it was a very good match. My son in law's sister had a successful donation in France.

KatyK Fri 15-Apr-16 12:31:00

Yes Eloethan I think it's 40 now although my DH was in his 40s when he donated.

Eloethan Fri 15-Apr-16 00:24:11

Oh that's sad.

I think women are more compassionate as a general rule but, of course, there will be many exceptions.

I don't think you can give donations past 35 or 40.

KatyK Thu 14-Apr-16 18:34:09

A few years ago, after our nephew died of leukemia, my DH donated his bone marrow, through the Anthony Nolan charity, to a lady in France. He was the nearest match they could find for her, although not a perfect match. She had two young children and wrote my DH a letter saying she was eternally grateful that a stranger in another country would do such a thing for her. Unfortunately the treatment didn't work and the lady died sad

Nonnie Tue 12-Apr-16 10:47:47

That surprises me. Are women more compassionate?

We both signed up very early on in the Anthony Nolan campaign and once DH was asked for a blood sample but presumably wasn't suitable. I think we are too old now.

Couldn't read the whole article as I'm not a subscriber but I hope lots do and it encourages them to sign up. For such little effort they could save a life.

Stansgran Tue 12-Apr-16 10:36:06

www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/health/article4731086.ece
I read this today and thought what a lovely young man. His mother must be so proud of him. I was in hospital last year and one of the nurses was going to donate stem cells that weekend. Why is it mainly women who donate?