Financial Fellow

Written by J.P. Wicklein

     This past week I signed up to be a bone marrow donor.  The process was quick, easy, and thanks to a promo code – free.  If a patient with leukemia, or other life threatening disease, requires a bone marrow transplant to live I may be called upon to donate my bone marrow. 

What is bone marrow?

     Bone marrow is the flexible tissue that resides in the hollow interior of large bones.  It’s vital for production of new blood cells.  Patients suffering from leukemia, or other diseases, may lose the ability to produce normal, healthy blood cells as a result of their ailment.  To treat the potentially fatal condition healthy bone marrow is harvested from a compatible donor and infused with the patient.  

How can I become a bone marrow donor?

     If you’re interested in becoming a donor I encourage you to visit the National Bone Marrow Donor website.  If you choose to become a donor you’ll be asked to confirm that you meet the basic registry guidelines by completing an online questionnaire.  Next, you’ll create an account.  Be sure to enter the promo code “lifesource” at this time.  Once you complete the registration process you’ll be sent a swab kit in the mail. 

     After opening the package, simply swab the inside of your cheeks and mail it back to the National Marrow Donor Program Repository in the provided self addressed stamped envelope.  Your cheek swab will be used to type your bone marrow and pair you up with a potential bone marrow recipient. 

     Normally the cost for this procedure is between $50 and $100.  The aforementioned promo code, “lifesource”, will remove any fees.  Even though the service is free, you’ll still have the option of donating to the Marrow Registry when you signup.