by Amanda Peters (APC) and Jillian Adler (OneMatch Stem Cell & Marrow Network)

You may have heard the term bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Bone marrow is a source of stem cells – immature blood cells that can change into red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets. Stem cells are commonly used to fight a number of diseases and disorders including but not limited to leukemia, aplastic anemia, and inherited immune system and metabolic disorders. A stem cell transplant replaces a patient’s ill-working blood cells with healthy cells from a donor. Right now, Canadian Blood Services is in need of  First Nations individuals to register with the OneMatch Stem Cell and Marrow Network in an effort to treat other First Nations in Canada.

Learn more about becoming a potential donor to help save a life of an Aboriginal patient in need.

Did you know?
In Canada we have an Aboriginal population of 1,172,785 (2006 census). Only 2,628 members of that population are part of the OneMatch Network. That equates to only 0.9% of the Aboriginal population being registered.

Did You Know?
75% of people who need a stem cell transplant can’t find a match in their own family. They rely on OneMatch to find a match to save their life.

Did You Know?
First Nations people have a genetic make-up that is unique to North America. Finding a donor for a First Nations patient overseas is unlikely. Finding a match for a First Nations patient will most likely come from Canada or th ...

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