September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month

bcaw2025

Every September, we come together for Blood Cancer Awareness Month – a time to shine a light on the thousands of Australians and millions worldwide living with blood cancers and disorders. These conditions can strike anyone, at any age, and for many patients, a stem cell transplant is their only chance of survival.

Throughout September, Stem Cell Donors Australia is raising awareness of blood cancers and disorders, culminating in World Marrow Donor Day on Saturday 21 September 2025 – a global event that honours the generosity of volunteer donors and highlights the urgent need for more people to step forward.

Our message this September is simple: Australia urgently needs more available stem cell donors.

While advances in treatment continue, too many patients still face long waits or never find a suitable match. By raising awareness, we can ensure more Australians understand stem cell donation, more people join the registry, and more existing donors stay ready and available when called.

How can you help?

There are many ways to make a difference this Blood Cancer Awareness Month:

  • Join the registry – If you’re aged 18–35, healthy, and willing to donate, you can sign up online to receive a cheek swab kit and join the registry from the comfort of your home.

  • Spread the word – Share information with your friends, family, and networks. Awareness grows when we all talk about it.

  • Update your details – If you’re already on the registry, update your contact information so we can reach you quickly if you’re identified as a match.

  • Stay engaged – Respond if you hear from us and remain ready to help a patient in need.

  • Engage your community – Encourage your workplace, university, or community group to learn more about stem cell donation and how they can get involved.

Every person who joins the registry, every conversation sparked, and every community that gets behind this cause helps move us closer to a future where no patient faces blood cancer without hope. This September, let’s work together to raise awareness, inspire action, and celebrate the incredible donors who give others a second chance at life.