Thanks to the generosity of a stranger, Ron Wilson has a chance at beating his chronic lymphocytic leukemia and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, two serious forms of cancer that affect the blood, bone marrow, and immune system. After the initial diagnoses, Ron underwent multiple intense rounds of chemotherapy to keep the disease in check. Ten years into his treatment plan, Ron was told that a bone marrow transplant was his only chance of survival.
Bone marrow contains stem cells that help produce new red blood cells, but intense rounds of chemotherapy can damage these cells. Luckily, stem cells can be extracted from a donor either directly through the bone marrow or an IV in the arm. The donor must be a close genetic match for a bone marrow or stem cell transplant to be successful.
Unfortunately, none of Ron’s relatives turned out to be a match, which forced Ron and his doctor to turn to Be The Match Registry®. Only three days later, an anonymous 19-year-old donor who was registered with the program ended up being a match. This stranger supplied the stem cells necessary to provide Ron with a life-saving transplant.
Two years after the transplant, Ron is feeling better than ever. He has returned to work and can enjoy his favorite hobbies, such as attending sporting events, once again. His entire family is incredibly grateful for the kindness of the donor who helped save Ron’s life.