The family of 14-year-old Daniel Greer has urged young males between the ages of 16 and 30 to join the stem cell registry. James, Daniel’s brother, is not a match; therefore, Daniel needs a transplant from an unrelated donor.
A leukemia-stricken teenager’s family has asked others to join the stem cell registry, as a transplant is his only hope of survival.
The family of 14-year-old Daniel Greer of Newry, County Down, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia two months ago, is requesting assistance from men aged 16 to 30.
His only hope of survival, according to doctors, is a stem cell donation that would help restore his immune system.
Since his diagnosis, Daniel has resided at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children and is undergoing severe chemotherapy.
More than half of all stem cell transplants for blood cancer and blood disease patients are performed on young males, yet they make up only 18 percent of the registry, according to the Anthony Nolan blood cancer charity, which is assisting with the DoItForDaniel campaign.
Anne Greer, his mother, stated: “Daniel is a remarkable, brilliant young guy who illuminates whatever room he enters.
“Even though he is undergoing chemotherapy in the hospital, his wicked sense of humor lifts our spirits.
“I’m sure he’s quite pleased that his tale is motivating people to join the stem cell registry.
These individuals may be able to assist Daniel, as well as the many others in need of a stem cell transplant worldwide.
Before a battery of blood tests proved his disease, Daniel complained of back and neck pain.
He is undergoing aggressive chemotherapy to induce remission so that he may be eligible for a transplant.
One in four individuals will discover a suitable partner within their family. However, Daniel’s older brother James is not a match, and he, therefore, requires a stem cell transplant from a non-related donor.
So far, local support has included pharmacies in Newry encouraging individuals to sign up for the register.
There has also been a stem cell donation awareness campaign at Belfast International Airport.
Henny Braund, the chief executive of Anthony Nolan, stated: “Finding a donor match would mean the world to Daniel and his family. We are committed to supporting Daniel while he awaits news of the life-saving donor.
“Throughout the world, more than 1,300 individuals with blood cancer or a blood condition were given a second chance at life thanks to the remarkable people who are registered with the Anthony Nolan registry.
“However, too many individuals, like Daniel, are told there is no matching donor.
Registering is quick and easy, and we urge everyone in good health, especially young men between the ages of 16 and 30, to come forward and perhaps save the life of someone like Daniel.
