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Introducing NMDP, formerly known as the National Marrow Donor Program and Be The Match.
Our name has changed but our mission has not: We save lives through cell therapy. Learn More

Media

Stories of the Registry: Courage & commitment

What’s it like to be a blood stem cell donor? To be a patient battling sickle cell—and to finally get the transplant that changes your life? Rian and Spencer talk through the realities of their experiences, joined by medical student and social media educator, Joel Bervell.

Journey to health

Sickle cell warrior Sosa describes her transplant journey and the challenges she faced along the way. After dealing with constant pain crisis and monthly blood transfusions, a successful cord blood transplant changed her life forever.

 

Our NMDP℠ Patient Support Center is here for you and your family by providing free support, information and resources for patients, caregivers and families from diagnosis through recovery. We offer one-on-one support, group support, financial help, clinical trial search and support, and more.

Spencer's Sickle Cell Journey

Spencer Brown was born with Sickle Cell Disease. From age 2 to 29, his life was unpredictable and punctuated by frequent bouts of excruciating pain, heavy doses of intravenous pain medication and lengthy hospital stays. Hear the story of his journey with sickle cell disease.

A Life with Less Hesitancy

Christina had her first stroke from sickle cell disease at age 8 and was temporarily paralyzed from the waist down. She’s had hearing loss, temporary blindness, hip replacement, and regular pain crises. The benefits of a bone marrow transplant outweighed the risks for her and now she’s free to roam the world with her friends, leading a life with less hesitancy.

A Warrior's Identity

Three years ago, Genesis watched her mother’s cells go into her body during bone marrow transplant—a day she’d prayed for since she was a little girl. While her journey after transplant hasn’t been challenge-free, she says having sickle cell disease gave her endurance to get through anything.

Big Plans for Rhiannon

After 12 years of struggling with sickle cell disease and wondering how she’d continue to get through it, Rhiannon viewed her bone marrow transplant as just another stepping stone—the step that would lead her to the greatest reward.

Breaking Down Sickle Cell Disease

Dr. Staci Arnold takes us through what sickle cell disease is, how it is inherited and some treatment options.

A Cure for Sickle Cell

Learn more about sickle cell disease from Dr. Staci Arnold and see firsthand the effect it has on two young boys, Dakhiyon and Marzavion, who are searching for the blood stem cell donors that could cure them.

The Opportunity for a Cure

Learn more about what Sickle Cell Disease is, the options Be The Match provides for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease and how you can get involved to ensure all Sickle Cell Warriors have a second chance at life.

Clinical Trials for Sickle Cell

Anne DeSalvo, certified genetic counselor, walks us through clinical trials for sickle cell disease, patient rights and what you need to know if you’re interested in exploring a clinical trial.

My Fertility Options

Dr. Kim Smith Whitely, Teonna Woolford, and April Green share their stories and answer many of the questions associated with sickle cell disease treatment and curative options as they impact fertility, to better inform patients of their options. The trio discuss the possible risks and benefits associated with transplant compared to treatment options as well as how the disease impacts fertility.

Can Sickle Cell Be Cured?

Erica Jensen, Be The Match® senior vice president, and hip-hop artist Nur-D share information about a life-saving option for patients with sickle cell disease.

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