The general terminology “cord blood unit” is used for the blood collected from the umbilical cord and placenta usually after the baby is born. Blood-forming cells are usually present in higher number in Cord blood and it is very effective when used in transplants for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and other life threatening diseases. Cord blood is one of the three sources of cells used in transplant.We looked at the other types - PBSC and bone marrow previously.
There are two popular ways in which stem cells can be donated.
1. Peripheral blood stem cell collection (PBSC)
2. Marrow Harvest
Peripheral Blood Stem Cell collection (PBSC)
Peripheral blood stem cell collection is the latest method to retrieve stem cells from a donor. You are injected with a Filgrastim, a stem cell growth factor medication that increases your stem cell production. Then these stem cells are collected by a procedure called Apheresis, which is similar to dialysis. Blood is retrieved from a vein and sent to a system that collects the excess stem cells and blood is returned to you in the same process. Thus this is a much simpler procedure to donate stem cells.
PBSC is also the most prevalent method of donating stem cells.
Marrow Harvest
This is a surgical procedure that lasts for an hour or so where you are under general anesthesia. A small portion of the liquid bone marrow is removed underneath your hipbone/pelvic bone using sterile syringes. The removed portion is replenished automatically by your body within 4 to 6 weeks.
Just read a great story about how a tragedy can spur a new cause.
Samantha Matthews lost her father during a tragic accident and it was her father’s decision to donate his organs that has inspired Samantha to learn more about organ donation and how it changes lives of people.
“Knowing that a part of your loved one helped save somebody else’s life makes it easier to cope with the loss”, - Samantha says.
“There is part of him somewhere still alive and it is wonderful to know that.”
Article from The Times News
It is with a heavy heart, I am writing this post. Vinay Chakravarthy, the hero who fought a brave battle against cancer and who spearheaded the cause of bone marrow donation amongst south asians passed away on June 25th 2008. My heartfelt condolences to Vinay’s family. May his soul rest in peace.
It is said that a great movement is always started by just one person. The awareness of bone marrow donation reached the highest amongst south asians in the US in the past year and Vinay was a spark that fired up this movement. Let us spread the awareness of bone marrow donation amongst our families, friends and colleagues. This is not an end, but a new beginning.
I read this news about Kelly Perkins and how she was able to climb to the top of Half Dome at Yosemite National Park. This is a remarkable day in organ donation history. Read more about Kelly Perkins and her achievements at the following websites.
Yahoo News on Kelly Perkins
http://www.craigandkelly.com