How did Leo find a stem cell donor for his leukemia?

Leo's family organized stem cell donor drives with the charity DKMS, which led to the discovery of an anonymous donor match.

What is DKMS and how can I help find donors?

DKMS is a blood cancer charity that registers stem cell donors. You can help by ordering a free swab kit from their website.

When will Leo have his leukemia transplant?

Leo is scheduled to be admitted for his stem cell transplant in mid-January.

Home / Health / Leukaemia Battle: Teen Finds Match After Family's Call

Leukaemia Battle: Teen Finds Match After Family's Call

17 Dec

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Summary

A 16-year-old boy with leukaemia has found a stem cell donor match.
His family organized drives, leading to over 700 new donor sign-ups.
The transplant is scheduled for mid-January after he achieved remission.

Leukaemia Battle: Teen Finds Match After Family's Call

A 16-year-old boy from Bromsgrove, Leo, diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, has received life-changing news: a stem cell donor match has been found. The anonymous donor's match means Leo will be admitted for a transplant in mid-January. This discovery comes after his family's dedicated efforts with the blood cancer charity DKMS to increase donor registrations, resulting in over 700 people signing up.

Leo’s mother shared her joy, describing the news as a "fantastic" Christmas gift. She highlighted that Leo had also achieved remission from the cancer. While thankful, she acknowledged the intensive preparations ahead, including further tests, chemotherapy, and a six-week isolation period to ready Leo for the transplant. She will remain by his side throughout his hospital stay.

Leo, who was studying electrical engineering, began experiencing fatigue and unusual bruising before his diagnosis. His family and DKMS continue to raise awareness, as approximately 2,000 blood cancer patients in the UK are still awaiting a donor match. Interested individuals can sign up for a free swab kit via the DKMS website.