A smiling young boy lies on his side in a hospital bed with medical wires attached to him.

Your next move: His second chance

For patients like Cayden who are waiting on a matching blood stem cell donor, every moment counts. You can make a difference by saying yes to joining the registry.
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Cayden’s devastating diagnosis

In April 2020, what started as leg pain for Cayden turned into the heartbreaking diagnosis: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). After two years of grueling chemotherapy and a brief reprieve, the cancer came back. But Cayden’s family holds on to hope that a life-saving blood stem cell transplant may soon be possible with the help of NMDPSM.
A young boy smiling with a tracheal tube visible in his nose.

Meet Cayden

Cayden is a resilient 8-year-old boy who has already endured more than most people face in a lifetime. Despite years of chemotherapy, a relapse, immunotherapy and CAR-T therapy, his fighting spirit remains unbroken. His parents and his brother have been by his side through every treatment, every setback and every small victory. Their strong support system has been crucial as they navigate one of life’s toughest moments.

Get started saving lives today: Sign up online and we’ll mail you a free swab kit. Swab your cheek, send it back and you’ll be added to the registry!

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The fight continues

Just nine months after finishing chemotherapy, Cayden’s family received devastating news: he had relapsed. Still, their resolve remains strong. Though his health is currently stable after cutting-edge CAR-T therapy, Cayden continues to fight—hoping for a matching donor for a blood stem cell transplant, a crucial step for his long-term health and his best chance for a cure.

Learn more about becoming a donor

Two young boys holding NMDP swab kits and pointing at the camera.
Cayden (left) and his brother, Christian

I was completely numb and in shock. I didn't move. I didn't say a word. I didn't cry. I just sat there in utter shock, feeling like I was in a nightmare that I couldn't wake up from.”

Courtney

Cayden's mom

Step up for patients

By joining the NMDP RegistrySM, you can offer life-changing hope to patients like Cayden. Black and African American patients urgently need more representation—and your simple swab could help save his life.
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