Finding a Match Against the Odds
Finding a Match Against the Odds
Original published date: 1/20/2022
A major milestone: the 100,000 life-saving match
When Tiana decided to donate blood stem cells to help save Donna’s life, the two had no idea that they would be making history as well. Donna and Tiana have the honor of being the 100,000 donor-recipient match at NMDPSM. Their story is about more than just numbers. They are living proof of the power each of us holds—the power to create a future where blood cancer is a thing of the past.
A devastating diagnosis
In 2017, Donna walked into an oncology office and received news no one ever wants to hear. Doctors diagnosed her with myelofibrosis and even more daunting was the five-to-seven-year life expectancy. “I don’t want to die in five years ... aren’t there treatments, isn’t anything available out there?” questioned Donna. Her sister shared in her frustration and sought out a new care team for Donna. Fortunately, getting a second opinion was crucial and as they learned more about blood stem cell transplants, a lightbulb went off. They realized this could be the answer they were searching for.
When searching for a blood stem cell donor, patients are more likely to match with someone who shares their own ethnic background. However, only 8% of potential donors on the NMDP RegistrySM are African American, making finding a match that more difficult for someone like Donna.
Thankfully, not long after Donna’s diagnosis, she learned that a match had been found. She was very emotional when she got the life-changing news.
Stepping up to save a life
Two years before Donna received her diagnosis, Tiana joined the NMDP Registry. At the time, Tiana’s grandmother needed a kidney transplant and someone stepped forward to help her. That act of kindness inspired Tiana to do the same for a total stranger.
I was on board as soon as they called and told me what was going on.”
Tiana
Blood stem cell donor
Tiana is an example of the good that can come from a simple cheek swab. By completing her swab kit, joining the registry and stepping up when she got the call, Tiana literally saved Donna’s life. "All the things that are said about Black people don’t donate, well some black people donated ... and they matched me,” said Donna.
A moment worth waiting for
Donna and Tiana waited over a year after Donna’s transplant to meet in person as the COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible to meet sooner. Finally, the day came when it was safe to meet and they jumped at the chance.
“Tiana is the star of the show, Tiana is light, Tiana is hope, Tiana is life ... life itself,” exclaimed Donna. “I realize I can never repay her for what she’s done, but I can sure say thank you … I can say you are awesome a lot. I can say you are fabulous a lot. Black Girl Magic. You are it!”
I realize I can never repay her for what she’s done, but I can sure say thank you … I can say you are awesome a lot. I can say you are fabulous a lot. Black Girl Magic. You are it!”
Donna
Transplant recipient
You have the power to help save a life, just like Tiana. Join the NMDP Registry today to help create a future where every patient can receive their life-saving cell therapy.