What distinguishes a VOLUNTEER bone marrow donor from a family bone marrow donor?
A volunteer marrow donor is someone who is willing to donate bone marrow for anyone. Volunteer donors are committed to donating their bone marrow for several years into the future. Volunteer donors are registered in the National Marrow Donor Program, and their bone marrow is made available to recipients throughout the USA and in some cases, other countries. How can I register to become a volunteer marrow donor? If you meet the age and health requirements, you submit a blood specimen for HLA (Human Leukocyte antigen) typing. What are the age and health requirements? You must be between the ages of 18-60, in good health and not overweight (more than 25% over ideal body weight). Does it cost to be a volunteer donor? There is no cost for the actual donation process. However, there is a fee for the HLA test (approximately $75). This fee may be waived or reduced if you participate in a community-funded event. Special funds are available for persons of Hispanic, African-American, Asian Americ
