THE DRIVE FOR DOUG-
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No, we're not referring to the '87 AFC Championship game between the Broncos and the Browns. This game is far more important. And the win will be far more rewarding!
Our friend Doug Thompson is in need of a bone marrow transplant in his fight with leukemia. His Denver friends are rallying together to increase his chances by holding a local bone marrow drive. THE DRIVE FOR DOUG.
And while we realize it's a busy time of year, we actually think it's the PERFECT time of year to help a friend in need. Gather your friends and family and join us, because 'tis the season indeed to make this event a priority amidst your busy holiday schedule.
DETAILS FOR THE DRIVE FOR DOUG:
1. What is this event all about?
This event is a bone marrow drive to get volunteers on the bone marrow national registry. It is taking place at a private home where people will be tested (a simple cheek swab) by Be The Match (Bonfils Blood Bank is the contracted center for Be The Match). A representative from Be The Match will be at the event.
2. How can I help?
There are two ways to help, depending on your age.
IF YOU ARE BETWEEN THE AGES OF 18-44:
You can be tested at the drive to become part of the national bone marrow registry.
IF YOU ARE OVER AGE 44:
We ask that you not be tested as 90% of matches are actually younger than you! They are between the ages of 18-44 so this group is going to be our target. As people age their bone marrow changes and their immune system has become exposed to more of whatever is out there in the environment. This drive's focus is on younger people whose donations will more likely be a match. Therefore, we instead ask that those of you over age 44 financially support THE DRIVE by sponsoring a candidate who is under 44.
Another way you can support THE DRIVE is to rally those in the optimal age range (18-44) to come to the event! Is your college student home for the break? Are they looking for some afternoon munchies? Can they grab some buddies in exchange for you taking them to dinner later? Gather them and bring them with you. This is an ideal way to help out - and it will be quick and painless. Not to mention a great way to participate in the spirit of the season!
3. How is testing done?
Testing is done by swabbing the inside of the mouth and completing a simple questionnaire.
4. What if I am over age 44, and I REALLY want to be tested. Can I still be tested?
We ask that you not deplete the testing resources at THE DRIVE if you are over age 44 because of the reasons stated in #2. Rather, the best way for you to support THE DRIVE FOR DOUG is by sponsoring someone between age 18-44.
5. I am between 18-44. Are there other health considerations that I need to know to make sure that I qualify for testing?
Yes, there are. You can learn more at http://bethematch.org/
4. Is there a cost to me for testing?
No, if you are between the age of 18-44, there is not a direct cost to you for testing. However, the process does cost Bonfils $100 per person to test and get them on the registry. Because Bonfils relies on private donors, we are asking for sponsors to offset this cost and to support their willingness to offer a drive specifically for our friend Doug.
5. How do I sponsor a young donor or make a financial donation?
Simply bring a check to the event or you can mail one in. Write your check to the "Colorado Marrow Donor Program". If mailing, send it to:
Gina Warner
7739 S. Ivy Way
Centennial, CO 80112
Your donation is tax deductible.
6. What am I actually committing to once I am on the registry?
You are committing to the chance of hope and the gift of life for someone with a life threatening illness. Going into the registry is easy, but a commitment. There would be nothing more devastating for someone in Doug's situation to find an unrelated donor match only to find out they aren't interested in following through.
7. Who should I contact if I have questions?
Gina Warner at ginawarner@comcast.net
Lauren Landen at landen99@yahoo.com
8. Out of towners we need you too! Read on for details.
Doug and Jill are grateful for your consideration! However, they are not organizing this event, so if you have questions please DO NOT direct them their way. Read below for specifics and most questions will be answered. Otherwise feel free to post your questions to the event page and we will respond accordingly.
Thank you for being such loyal and supportive friends to Doug! Please spread the word about THE DRIVE FOR DOUG!