"Not a lot of people know that leukemia is the most common disease children die of in the U.S. Most children and young adults can be given a second chance if a match is found. However, only 2 out of 10 patients end up getting the life-saving treatment. I think it's amazing that Pat, who is organizing donor drives with DKMS is being an advocate for bone marrow registration at such a young age, he is such an inspiration. "
- Leona Lewis
“We turned to DKMS for help. Thanks to the amazing work that DKMS does, we are able enjoy our twin boys for many years to come.” – Xander and Carrie, parents of Keane and Ethan
Identical twins, Keane and Ethan were born beautiful, healthy boys on October 13, 2006. In February 2007, Ethan became ill and was diagnosed with Hemophagocitic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a very rare blood disease.A further test found that the HLH was genetic, which meant that Keane also had HLH.
My name is Todd. Two years ago, I was having the time of my life. I was a student at Missouri State University, I was active in sports and had a tight knit group of friends. All this came to a screeching end when I received the devastating news that I had leukemia.
Meet Giovanni, born July 24, 2006, a happy and healthy baby. When Giovanni was just 6 weeks old, he began getting life threatening infections and after months of hospitalization was diagnosed with NEMO, a rare and severe immune disorder.
His parents were told he would die before his 1st birthday without a marrow or cord blood transplant.
My girlfriend, Laura, and I registered as donors at a drive for a member of our church and within a year and a half we both have had the opportunity to donate life. The experience of being a donor has changed my life. Knowing that I have given someone a second chance is something that I will cherish forever.
“My experience with the DKMS organization was memorable. I had the privilege as a donor to prolong another’s life. DKMS allowed me to feel comfortable from the moment I was informed I was a marrow match to the actual donation. DKMS was extremely professional while organizing the transplant.
“Feelings of hope for the recipient and his family made my experience well worthwhile. I would not hestitate to undergo this procedure again.”
Laura Klein
1st Female DKMS Americas Donor and 1st DKMS Americas PBSC donor
“I know that I will be a match for someone-that I will save a life.”
Lenny McKnight,
1st DKMS Americas Bone Marrow Donor
“I became a donor after I saw a Myspace page of a little boy who needed a transplant. There I found DKMS. When I got the call saying I might be a match, it was like fate. Every one of us can make a difference.”
James Maguire, Confirmatory Typing match
“We appreciate your support for the donor drive to help Sam. Your representative, Ellie, is an angel. She is warm and knowledgeable... someone to feel proud of having in your organization.”
Beth Kim,
Drive organizer and aunt of Sam Cross (patient)
“You have been wonderfully supportive and your organization is heads and shoulders above the rest. Thank you for everything you have done.”
Trux, Lauren and Gage Dole (AML, transplant recipient)
"My own charity, Believe, works specifically with children in need and with children with leukemia. My charity will continue to work with DKMS because you can really see the results."
Rihanna
Grammy Award Singer
More than 1.7 million others are fighting for the cause.