When You're Asked to Donate for a Patient
Not every member of the Be The Match RegistrySM will be called to donate to a patient. If you are asked, a patient's doctor has selected you as the best donor. You may be the one to save a life.
Becoming a bone marrow donor is a serious commitment. We will provide the information you need to make this important decision and will:
- Schedule an information session
- Answer your questions
- Schedule a physical exam to make sure the donation is safe for both you and the patient
- Guide you through the donation process
You make the final decision to become a donor. You may agree to donate or you can say no. We will respect your decision either way. For more information to help you decide, see:
- Steps of Bone Marrow or PBSC Donation
- Donation FAQs
- About the PBSC vs. Marrow Clinical Trial – information about a clinical trial you may be asked to participate in when you donate
Additional information
Our information packets contain the materials listed below. You can download them now or wait to receive them at your information session. Do you have other questions? Just contact your local donor center.
Now That You Are a Match (PDF) – Explains bone marrow and blood cell donation in detail. We will review these details with you and show the related video.
Also in Spanish: Ahora que es Compatible (PDF).
Available in other languages in print.
Opportunity to Participate in the NMDP Research Sample Repository (PDF) – Outlines how to participate in NMDP research studies designed to improve bone marrow transplant outcomes.
Related Links:
Research: Advancing the Science of Transplant 
Now That You Have Donated (PDF) – Outlines what to expect after you donate bone marrow or blood cells, including your recovery and our follow-up efforts. It also explains how to get updates on the transplant patient. Available in other languages in print.
