How to Join The Registry & FAQ's

So you're considering joining the cause...

Here are some topics to consider and questions you may ask

How do I join Be The Match's bone marrow registry?

Option 1 - Come to a Registry Ride reception event! (LA on Fri 10/8 or SD on Sun 10/10)

The primary purpose of the reception events is to make it as easy as possible for candidates to join the registry. Just come swing on by, hear some stories about the ride, have a beer and a bite to eat, and swab your cheek!

Option 2 - Directly Through Be The Match

If you can't make one of the events, Be The Match makes it easy to join too.

Anyone can request a free cheek swab kit by mail so they can swab at home and send it back; no postage required! Doing so is a breeze on Be The Match's website here.

Or even easier, text "RegistryRide" to 61474

Who is an ideal candidate for the registry?

Anyone who is 18-40 years old and in good health.

What is the procedure like and how will it impact me?

Here's a quick video which explains the two types of donation.

While any medical procedure has its own risks, Bone Marrow transplants are a very sophisticated and safe procedure.

For me, I donated bone marrow. After accepting, I did some lab tests to confirm my match, filled out some forms, studied up on the procedure and confirmed I felt safe and ready to do it. Next, Be The Match flew me out to Dallas and put me up in a hotel near their trusted hospital and hand-selected doctor. The day of the procedure, I went under general anesthesia (like I have for any of my knee surgeries or other procedures) and woke up in good spirits. I felt an ache in my lower back, which felt as if I had fell on an ice skating rink and bruised my lower back. By that night, I enjoyed a beer and great Texas BBQ, feeling almost fully back to normal. The next day, I resumed my daily activities and returned to work. The ache in my back lasted a couple days, and beyond that, it was totally smooth sailing for me.

Without a doubt, the minimal inconveniences I felt were far outweighed by the impact my gift would serve.

What is the likelihood of finding a match if you are in need of bone marrow donation?