Donation stories

In their own words

Behind every donation is a story of generosity and hope. These donor stories share the journeys of everyday Australians who chose to make a life-changing impact as stem cell donors. From the moment they registered to the day they found they were a match, these stories highlight the decisions and dedication of those who stepped up to give someone a second chance at life. Discover the experiences, motivations, and unique journeys that connect our donors to patients in need, showing just how powerful one donation can be.

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Bodhi - Stem cell donor

I’ve gone through this journey of being selected, doing the tests, and making the donation. But on the other side, there’s someone who was critically ill, waiting to find out if they had a match. To be that person for them, it’s just incredible.

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Charlotte - Stem cell donor

I just couldn't believe how everyone I met or spoke to along the journey were so lovely and beyond helpful. From the nurses who took my blood at the donor centre, to the doctors in the hospital, I was very touched with how kindly I was treated.

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Erin - Stem cell donor

I don't know who received the donation, and I don't need to, but I feel like I've been a part of someone's journey. I can only hope that this donation has given them hope and, at the very least, a chance in the midst of such a difficult time.

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Annastasia - Stem cell donor

The donation area was located within the cancer ward. Walking through, knowing I was completely healthy, felt like such a privilege, but also an honour, that I could use my body to help someone else.

A photo of Rasa donating blood stem cells

Rasa - Stem cell donor

This has been a once in a lifetime experience, and a very positive one. I hope that through writing this article, more people will consider placing themselves on the stem cell donor registry.

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Mitch - Stem cell donor

I joined the registry for the same reason I donate blood plasma: to give back to someone in need. I’m fortunate to lead a healthy lifestyle and have a body that recovers easily. Not everyone is so lucky. If I can help someone without it significantly impacting my life, it’s a no-brainer.

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Ricki - Stem cell donor

I figured I was already donating whole blood and plasma regularly, so if I could help others in a similar manner then why not join?

A photo of Yoni while he was donating blood stem cells.

Yoni - Stem cell donor

“The feeling was really like no other. I was elated by the idea that my blood stem cells could help someone who was unwell. I immediately called my wife and my parents to tell them the news.”

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Jacki - Stem cell donor

I tried to save my sister’s life

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Lisa - Stem cell donor

“It was my way of practising what I preached.”

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Kalven - Stem cell donor

When Hugh met Kalven (video)

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Emily - Stem cell donor

“Maybe I could help a family have more time together.”

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Lachlan - Stem cell donor

The simple decision that changed someone’s life

Mark donating by PBSC

Mark - Stem cell donor

“You are made to feel like royalty!”

Sean donating by PBSC

Sean - Stem cell donor

Sean was a match for someone across the other side of the world

Courtney getting ready to donate blood stem cells

Courtney - Stem cell donor

I was back to the gym the next day and back to work the next day, it really doesn’t take too much of a toll on your body. If you are able to donate look into it, do your research, find out why it’s important and then sign up. 110 percent I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Alex R who donated by PBSC

Alexander - Stem cell donor

Alexander found blood stem cell donation empowering

Donor portal – Nathan R donation story 30 Jun 22

Nathan - Stem cell donor

Nathan was “eternally grateful” to donate his blood stem cells

Iain donating by PBSC

Iain - Stem cell donor

Realistically, it probably took two days out of my life for all the communication, blood tests, check-ups, and the final donation. I had imagined prior to the process that it would be a lot more involved.

Stewart will soon donate his bone marow from his hip while he sleeps

Stewart - Stem cell donor

Donating bone marrow from my hip

Chloe donating by PBSC

Chloe - Stem cell donor

Chloe’s journey donating by PBSC

smiling Nicola before she donates her blood stem cells to a stranger

Nicola - Stem cell donor

Nicola’s experience injecting G-CSF

Callum donating blood stem cells

Callum - Stem cell donor

Callum’s inspiration to donate blood stem cells