Marrow donor registry kicks off

Published April 25, 2010
By Senior Master Sgt. Rod Lindsey
379th Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Each day, thousands of people wait for a potentially lifesaving bone marrow transplant. Bone marrow transplants can treat more than 75 different potentially fatal diseases, such as leukemia and certain other cancers. For many patients, a bone marrow transplant is the only treatment option providing a cure.

Unfortunately, more than 70 percent of those in need of a marrow transplant do not have a family member who is a suitable match and must rely on finding a match through the Department of Defense Marrow Donor Program Registry Database. The MDP was established in 1986 to help patients and doctors find a suitable match.

Since then, more than 11 million people in the United States, including roughly 400,000 servicemembers, have registered. Despite this enormous pool of volunteers, many patients are still unable to find a suitable match.

"The more people who enroll in the MDP, the better the chance we will someday be able to meet the needs of all those waiting for a lifesaving transplant," said Capt. Jeffrey Chaperon, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Bone Marrow Donor Drive project manager.
All DOD ID cardholders, aged 18 - 60, are eligible to enroll.

"There are very few disqualifiers from being able to register," said Captain Chaperon. "In fact, many people who are excluded from donating blood are still eligible to donate marrow."

To become a part of the DOD registry database, servicemembers complete a series of oral swabs and two pages of paperwork. In just five minutes, potential donors can join the list of possible donors.

Currently, there are more than 500 military personnel among the thousands of Americans who need a bone marrow transplant. It's a fairly simple process, which can yield life-saving results, said Captain Chaperon.

A few minutes of time can make a difference to a Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, Coast Guardsman, DOD civilian or their family members, Captain Chaperon said.
"If you can spare a few minutes of your time, please come by one of the registry booths or contact your group or unit POC," he added. "You might be the match for someone in need and give the most precious gift that you could ever give someone - the gift of life."

Beginning April 25 and ending May 8, MDP representatives will be available in base units to register servicemembers. During the second week of the drive, registry locations will be set up at Memorial Plaza, BPC BX, and the Passenger Terminal.

For more information, contact rodney.lindsey@auab.afcent.af.mil or jeffrey.chaperon@auab.afcent.af.mil.