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| Claflin University students register as bone marrow donors at a campus registry drive (Image: Be The Match) |
The Conflict
I never knew that a bone marrow registry existed until I discovered I was in need of a donor for my second bone marrow transplant. In December 2009 I was diagnosed with Stage 3 multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood or a cancer of the plasma cells in bone marrow. I was 29.
In multiple myeloma, plasma cells grow out of control in the bone marrow, forming tumors in areas of solid bone. The growth of these tumors makes it harder for the bone marrow to produce normal red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Although there is no cure for multiple myeloma, a bone marrow transplant (or stem cell) is considered the best treatment option to ensure survival.
After having my first bone marrow transplant in May 2010 (using my own stem cells), the cancer returned 4 months later. My hematologist strongly suggested to have another bone marrow transplant, this time the stem cells would come from a donor. I could not find a donor in my own family because I am an only child. Thus, the next approach would be to find a donor within my own race through the National Marrow Donor Program (now known as Be The Match).
With a registry of more than 9 million potential donors it would seem more than possible to find a match. But when you are of color, it’s not that simple. During the search I learned a devastating truth: there is a critical shortage of African-Americans in the bone marrow registry; only 650,000 potential donors-about 7 percent-are black. This severely limits a black person’s chance of receiving a transplant that could save their life. The same is true for other minorities: American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Hispanic and Latino.
Also, black patients have a harder time finding donors “because those whose ancestors migrated from Africa are 50 percent more genetically diverse than those with European — American heritage,” according to a report done by the National Marrow Donor Program. Since I could not find a donor, I endured a more intense transplant using my own stem cells and received high-dose chemotherapy. The transplant was not as successful as I hoped; the cancer returned 5 months later. I am still in battle with this cancer and I intend to win!
The Resolution
Awareness is lacking in the African-American community regarding the importance of becoming a bone marrow donor. It seems that we only learn about this when someone we know life is at stake. Education is the key to shattering myths and misconceptions that permeates throughout the black and other minority communities. Blood cancers and other life threatening diseases is not just an African-American (or black) issue; it’s a human race issue. The lack of bone marrow donors-no matter what race or ethnicity they are-affects us all.
Getting stricken with a disease is not something individuals want nor ask for. What they do ask is for the chance to live life to the fullest and to become all that God destined them to be. They too are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God. Who are we to rob them of living?
Let’s not wait until we hear about someone losing their life. That person could be a close friend, a loved one, or yourself. We should take time to educate ourselves on this matter and strive to become that person who saves a life. To become a bone marrow donor is simple, confidential and free of charge. To save someone's life begins with a swab from the inner cheek. People can register at a local drive or online at http://www.marrow.org/.
Links/Resources
Myths & Facts About Bone Marrow Donation
FAQ's about Joining the Registry
The Need For Donors
