IMPORTANT: STEM CELL DONORS ARE NEEDED

One of my best mates from school Lauren donating blood.

PLEASE SHARE: https://stemcelldonors.org.au/join-the-registry/when-i-donate-blood/

A massive thank you to everyone who has donated blood and a special shoutout to Sliz and Lauren for doing it regularly. It matters more than most of us realise. During my treatment, I actually needed several bags of blood and platelets, so this is our way of giving back and I’ll be forever thankful!

The more I learn about blood cancers, the more I understand just how critical blood and stem cell donations are. It’s a whole new world I didn’t know about and feel so naive.

Many people, myself included, may need a bone marrow stem cell transplant to reach remission or a cure. In Australia, around 1,300 people each year need a donor, and there simply are not enough registered, especially people aged 18 to 35. Unlike some countries like Germany, we do not have an automatic opt in system which means not many people aren’t even aware.

The good news is registering is quick and pretty bloody easy: sign up online, complete a mouth swab, and if you are a match, the process is very similar to donating blood. I always assumed it would be complicated, but it is actually so easy. I only wish I had done it and now feel bloody guilty for not!

If you are able to, please consider registering and sharing. It could genuinely save my life or someone else’s. And if you are a match… beers are on me for sureeeeeee 🍻

https://stemcelldonors.org.au/join-the-registry/when-i-donate-blood/

Taz xxx

All of the good stuff (including blood) helping me avoid a trip to ICU during treatment.