Understand Your Commitment

Being a bone marrow donor is more than a cheek swab. It is a commitment to save a life.

Before you register, it is important that you fully understand your commitment.

You will,

• Be listed on the National Registry until your 61st birthday, unless you ask to be removed
• Consider donating to any searching patient who matches your tissue type
• Keep DKMS updated if any of your contact information changes, you have significant health changes or you change your mind about being a marrow donor
• Respond quickly if your are contacted as a potential match for a patient, as you might be the only person to help save their life

Donating is always voluntary. You can change your mind at any time. However, if you decide you no longer want to be a registered marrow donor, let DKMS know right away. That way we can continue the search for another donor without dangerous — even life-threatening —delays for the patient.

There are two ways to register as a potential bone marrow donor. First, check that you meet the eligibility requirements. Next, you can either choose to:

• Attend a DKMS Bone Marrow Donor Drive
  Donor drives are a wonderful way to register and meet fellow donors.
• Request a Typing Kit by Mail
  If you cannot attend a drive, you can request that a typing kit be sent to you.