DKMS: How did the pandemic and the war in Ukraine affect the number of applications to the bone marrow donor base?

- Anyone between 18 and 55 years of age can come and register as a potential bone marrow donor and thus save someone's life. This is the role of DKMS - to save lives, give a chance for new ones - says Leszek Lewandowski, donor recruitment coordinator. Without our good will, however, it will not be possible, which is why it is so important for us to understand how important it is. - If we all registered, each of us would have a genetic twin that could save our lives. At present, only every fifth Pole finds his genetic twin. Hence, it is so important to register as a potential bone marrow donor so that there are as many people as possible - says L. Lewandowski.

One of the factors influencing the decision to register with the bone marrow donor database is the question of stereotypical perception that it is dangerous. - Meanwhile, we are in absolutely no danger - says Leszek Lewandowski. She explains that there are two methods of collecting bone marrow. The first, less popular (performed only 5-10 percent) is the collection of bone marrow from the plate of the iliac bone. It has nothing to do with the spine. In the remaining 90 percent, it is a method of blood collection that takes 3 to 4 hours (apheresis). The treatment is completely painless and hassle-free. It just takes time. We go home after it, as if nothing - he says.

Sometimes donors want to meet the people they saved their lives for. - These are beautiful moments and amazing emotions. - I had the opportunity to attend two such meetings. A tear in the eye is rolling. Because finding a person who was helped - saved a life, is a unique experience - says the representative of the foundation.

The number of reports to the bone marrow donor base was influenced by the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Before the pandemic, the DKMS foundation registered about 200,000 people annually. Currently, only (or even due to the pandemic) about 100,000. - We are doing our best to expand our base. The war in Ukraine also had an impact as people redirected their emotions, help and attention to our neighbors across the eastern border. Hence, we have fewer volunteers and people willing to register. And without them, our raison d'être does not make any sense - adds Leszek Lewandowski.