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Donating bone marrow/stem cells

Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228

so I’m joining the BE THE MATCH registry ao I can potentially donate bone marrow or stem cells to a sick person. I’m pretty excited. But I read on the site that I may not even get the chance to donate because finding a compatible donor is so rare. But I’m doing it anyway because I want to make a difference. Anyone here ever do this?

Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228
Actually I reads that they give you anesthesia so you don’t feel pain during the procedure. There can be pain up to a week later afterwards. If I even get matches I’ll let y’all know about any pain. Also I am giving blood for the first time next week :)
Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228
Lol I don’t know my blood type actually. I think A- but I’ve never given or received blood before
OlderCPer
OlderCPer
The only way a bone marrow aspiration is not painful is if you go under general anesthesia. When they say, "they give you anesthesia" if they're talking about lidocaine injections or twilight sedation....

ummm you feel it and it hurts like something I don't think you've ever felt in your life.

Having an 11 or 13 gauge needle punched into your hip bone or femur, by brute strength is something that's borderline barbaric. They've not figured out a way to do this any easier or less painful.
Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228
Guess I’ll find out then Cat!!
freenowfinally
freenowfinally
I've been a bone marrow donor for over thirty years and they have never called for the bone marrow. However, since I have O+ blood they call all the time. I heard the bone marrow extraction is very painful too. Good Luck Kisses!
Community LeaderSunCloudJD
SunCloudJD
It's really nice that you're willing to donate for those in need..... There is criteria to be eligible to donate though and you might ? not be able to...… Big hug.....xo

https://bethematch.org/support-the-cause/donate-bone-marrow/join-the-marrow-registry/medical-guidelines/
Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228
Thanks Jan but I am aware of the restrictions and qualifications. I am medically and medically stable and I meet the BMI qualifications. I’ve done my homework’s. Anyway, like FNF said, I may never even get called.
chris138
chris138
Very noble...but I imagine would also be very painful....ouch. But its great you are donating.
chris138
chris138
The only thing I would consider is donating blood and platelets. And my veins are crappy and not easy to find. I am too scared of the pain of bone marrow donation.
Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228
They say you are under anesthesia so the procedure doesn’t hurt during. There is just pain afterwards.
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