Register for Frankie
Frankie's future may depend on a stranger's kindness
Five-year-old Frankie loves swimming, bike riding, beach days and spending time with her three older brothers.
In January 2026, what seemed like a sore leg quickly became every parent’s nightmare. Within 36 hours of developing leg pain, a fever and small red spots on her shoulder, Frankie was diagnosed with Philadelphia-positive Pre-B Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, a high-risk form of blood cancer.
While Frankie is currently receiving intensive treatment, her family knows that a stem cell transplant may still become part of her journey if treatment doesn’t go as hoped. Her three brothers have all been tested, but sadly none are a match.
Why more donors are needed
Frankie’s family remains hopeful that advances in treatment will mean she won’t need a stem cell transplant. But because of the genetic features of her leukaemia, transplant remains a possibility.
“We are still hopeful Frankie will beat this leukaemia and not need a transplant,” says Kate. “But we’re scared at the prospect of needing to go through this process and the possible complications.”
If a transplant becomes necessary, finding a matched unrelated donor could be critical. That’s why growing Australia’s stem cell donor registry is so important. Every new person who joins gives patients like Frankie a better chance of finding the match they may one day need.
You could be someone's second chance
Before Frankie’s diagnosis, her family knew very little about the stem cell donor registry. Now they understand just how important it is.
“There is no way to understand the fear families face at the possibility they may not find a match,” says Kate.
“The more people on the registry, the more likely we are to find a perfect match for our little girl.”
Join the stem cell donor registry today and help ensure patients like Frankie have every option available when they need it most.
What do I need to know before I sign up?
Stem cell donation is a safe and simple process that can potentially cure life-threatening diseases. Before you register, it’s important for you to have a good understanding of what it means to be a donor and ensuring you’re committed, should you be someone’s life-saving match.
Eligibility check:
- You’re aged 17-35.
- Generally healthy (we’ll cover this in more detail in the next steps).
Signing up means:
- You’re committing to donate to anyone, globally needing a match.
- You’re committed to being available if called upon.
- We’ll stay in contact, keeping you informed and ready for the call.
Donation likelihood:
- Matches are rare; they are based on genetic compatibility.
- BUT while not everyone will donate, your registration increases chances for those in need.
If you’re a match:
- We’ll call you to let you know!
- Donation involves a simple procedure with minimal discomfort.
- We support you throughout, ensuring top medical care and thorough information.
How are you registering today?
Select one of the options below:
Join Frankie’s appeal
If you’re in Australia, register below to join the registry when you donate blood at a Lifeblood donor centre.
JOIN THE REGISTRYOutside Australia?
Important Information
We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who wants to make a difference by joining our registry. When it comes to donating stem cells, younger donors are preferred because they lead to better outcomes for patients. This focus on young donors helps us ensure that the patients’ transplants have the best chance of success.
While we do keep donors on the registry until their 60th birthday in case they become the perfect match for someone in need, we have to be mindful of our limited resources. Our priority is to engage those who can provide the greatest potential for successful transplants, which is why we encourage those aged between 18 and 35 years old to register.
If you’re outside this age range, please know that your passion and willingness to help are valued, and we appreciate your support in spreading the word about the importance of donating stem cells. See our How to help section for ways you can help our mission.
We understand that you may want to help a loved one who is unwell, and it’s natural to want to make a difference in their situation. However, when you register as a donor, you’re committing to help anyone in need of a stem cell transplant.
Unless you share the same parents, the chances of being a match for your loved one are very slim. Instead, by joining the registry, you have the opportunity to assist someone else who may be facing a similar situation to what your loved one is experiencing.
Your decision to register means you could potentially save the life of someone you’ve never met—someone who, like your loved one, is in need of support. While it might not be for your friend or relative, your willingness to help can make a significant difference in the lives of others in need.
If you match a patient, you will be contacted to confirm that you are healthy and still willing and available to donate. A blood sample will be taken to confirm the match.
Before donating, an independent specialist will assess you medically, explain the process thoroughly and answer any questions that you may have. Your health and well-being before and after donation are equally important.
Find out more about the donation process.