Viviana on becoming a donor, being a potential match, and the impact of stem cell donation
In 2021, Viviana registered as a stem cell donor, without knowing if anything would ever come of it. Two years later, she unexpectedly received a call informing her that she was a potential match for a patient. In this story, she shares how she experienced the donation process and why she wants to encourage others to register as well.
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“Maybe I could help someone”
I decided to become a stem cell donor after someone I know posted a message on social media calling for donors. A family member of hers needed stem cells, and that motivated me to register and see if I might be able to help.
That was sometime in 2021 or 2022. At that moment, I actually signed up without any expectations. Of course, I hoped that one day I could mean something to someone, but you don’t immediately think that you will actually be a match.
A meaningful phone call
Around the end of 2023, I was told that I was a potential match. To be honest, it came as quite a shock, as I hadn’t really expected that after registering, you might actually be called for someone.
At the same time, I felt very happy and grateful that I was given the opportunity to help someone and possibly even save a life. Ultimately, the donation took place in early 2024.
What made it even more special to me was the realization that it cost me relatively little, while for the recipient it can truly mean everything.
A clear and smooth process
The entire process was very clear and smooth. After receiving the call that I was a potential match, I went through all the medical checks required through Matchis. Once everything was approved, I was able to go to the hospital for the actual donation.
From the first phone call to the donation itself, the process took about four months.
At the hospital, I was received very warmly. The staff immediately put me at ease, as everyone knew exactly why I was there. I felt well guided throughout the entire process.
The donation itself
The stem cell donation itself went fairly quickly, as my body had produced a large number of stem cells in advance due to a medication I was given in the week beforehand.
I don’t know anything about the patient who received my stem cells, but the idea that I was able to help someone in such an important way already means a great deal to me.
Back to normal quickly
After the donation, I generally felt well. I was a bit tired, but after about two days, I felt completely back to normal again.
That made it even clearer to me how special stem cell donation really is: a relatively small effort can literally be life-saving for someone else.
“You can save someone’s life”
To people who are still unsure about registering as a stem cell donor, I would say: do it.
You have the chance to possibly save someone’s life. And honestly: what could be more beautiful than giving someone the chance to continue living their life?
