To my fellow mothers,
Last night, just before settling in for bed, I took a moment to scroll through Facebook one last time. What I saw filled me with dread. My neighbor’s 5-year-old son, Noah, who spent much of last year battling AML—a severe form of leukemia—has relapsed. He will need to undergo chemotherapy once more and most likely requires another bone marrow transplant. My heart broke into pieces.
This is the same little boy who was joyfully playing outside with my own children just last week; the same sweet, kind boy who shares his toys without a second thought with my 3-year-old and 18-month-old, who still struggle with the concept of sharing. Just months ago, I watched him learn to ride a bike on the path next to my home. Now, he faces yet another round of hospitalization and intense treatment.
What makes this situation even more heartbreaking is the knowledge that his parents have already walked this challenging road. They know the countless hours spent away from their younger child, the pain in Noah’s eyes as he endures bone marrow biopsies, and the powerful medications that, while meant to heal, will also make him feel incredibly ill. They understand the struggle and yet, they continue to fight.
In the face of such despair, I felt utterly helpless. I’ve been a social worker for many years and have shared tears with countless families. I’ve spent time playing games with children who are too sick to have visitors, and I’ve comforted siblings who don’t understand why their parents are always at the hospital. But watching a friend’s child go through this? It’s a different kind of heartache. I desperately wanted to help in some meaningful way.
We could offer to mow their lawn, but they already have that covered. We could watch their younger son, but they have family nearby who can provide that support. Sure, I can cook meals, but it all feels so inadequate when they are fighting for the life of their child.
Then this morning, a thought struck me, and I realized how you can help too. I’m not asking you to contribute to a GoFundMe account.
Before my oldest child was born, I registered as a bone marrow donor. As I stepped into motherhood, I knew that if my child, my husband, or I ever needed a match, I wanted to ensure that I was part of the solution. It felt selfish to expect a match without contributing myself. Although I’ve never been matched, I’m grateful that my DNA is available in case another mother, father, or child needs it.
Imagine if everyone reading this letter took the step to register as a donor. Imagine the ripple effect if each of those individuals shared the importance of bone marrow donation with their friends. We could exponentially increase the donor pool, potentially saving the lives of more children, parents, and families. We could truly make a difference.
Becoming a donor is simple. Visit bethematch.org to request a kit. They’ll send you a packet with easy instructions to swab your cheek. Once completed, you send it back and voilà! You’re on a list that holds the potential to save a life. Has anything so impactful ever been so easy?
As mothers, for your children, your partners, for yourselves, and for kids like Noah, I urge you to consider registering as a bone marrow donor. If you’re unable to register due to age or health reasons, please share this vital information with someone who can.
While we may feel powerless in the face of challenges like Noah’s, we can still take action. Please think about registering as a bone marrow donor. You never know—the difference you make could be monumental.
With heartfelt sincerity,
Jenna Thompson
For more insights on home insemination, check out this blog post on Cervical Insemination. If you’re considering at-home insemination, Make A Mom offers reputable kits to help boost fertility. Additionally, UCSF’s Center is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
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