What being selected to donate means
After careful testing and review, you may receive the call that you have been selected as the best possible match for a patient. This means that, out of all potential donors, your tissue type is the closest match and you are now that patient’s best chance of receiving a stem cell transplant. It is a significant and often emotional moment. Many donors feel a mix of pride, responsibility, and uncertainty. All of these feelings are completely normal.
At this stage, your decision carries real impact, as the patient’s treatment will begin to depend on your availability. Once you confirm that you are willing to proceed, we begin planning the next steps together. From this point on, you will be supported by a dedicated DKMS team who will guide you through the entire process. Everything is carefully coordinated and clearly explained, so that you always know what to expect.
We will also begin arranging the practical aspects, including appointments, travel if needed, and any documentation required for your employer or place of study.
The medical assessment
Before the donation can take place, you will undergo a full medical assessment at a specialised collection centre. This step is essential to ensure that donating stem cells is completely safe for you.
The assessment may include:
- a review of your medical history
- a physical examination
- blood tests
- an ECG and other relevant checks
- a detailed consultation with a doctor
During this consultation, the procedure will be explained to you in detail, including any possible side effects. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and take your time to fully understand the process. Only once you are medically cleared and feel informed and comfortable will we ask for your final consent to proceed.
Your health and safety remain our top priority at all times.
Support throughout the process
From the moment you are selected, you will have a dedicated point of contact within DKMS.
We will:
- organise and cover all costs related to the donation
- arrange travel and accommodation if required
- provide documentation for work, school, or university
- remain available to answer any questions
Our role is to make sure that you feel informed, comfortable, and fully supported; both practically and emotionally.
A moment of impact
Being selected as a donor is something very few people experience. It means that somewhere in the world, there is a patient whose life may depend on your decision.
At the same time, this is still your journey. What matters most is that you feel ready, informed, and supported as you move forward.
You Are Selected to Donate
Yes, you can withdraw at any time. However, once a patient has started their preparation for a transplant, they rely entirely on their selected donor. At this stage, the patient’s own bone marrow has already been weakened or destroyed to make way for the transplant. If a donor withdraws after this point, it can put the patient’s life at serious risk.
For this reason, it is very important to be certain about your decision from the first call and before the patient begins preparation.
No. All costs related to the donation process including travel, accommodation, and medical care are covered.
You will undergo a full medical assessment, including blood tests, a physical examination, and a consultation to ensure donation is safe for you at a private facility organised by DKMS Africa.
From being selected to the donation itself, the process is usually planned over several weeks, depending on the patient’s condition and readiness.
