Amidst countless cases of donation fraud and misleading GoFundMe campaigns, it is evident that appeals for monetary and material support are increasingly falling on deaf ears. However, there exist alternative, potentially more impactful avenues for contribution. Consider the heartwarming account of a Jewish-Chinese woman who, against all odds, found her perfect donor match just when hope seemed lost. Putting ourselves in the shoes of potential donors, we recognise the profound altruism underlying such acts, made possible through the power of social media awareness that resonates strongly with today’s youth.

As social media platforms continue to thrive, it’s crucial to advocate for life-saving causes and ensure that no potential genetic match is overlooked. With the younger generation becoming more engaged with social media, there’s no better time than now to encourage healthy individuals, particularly those aged 18-49, to join the registry. While challenges and scams may persist, one thing remains certain: our youth’s ability and willingness to contribute can make a lasting difference.

And what better cause than saving a life through a small piece of yourself? With this specific, unifying cause in mind, the Bone Marrow Donor Programme (BMDP) has pioneered in Singapore for over 30 years. Over the past three decades, BMDP has become a cornerstone in the fight against blood-related diseases, growing its registry into a national asset. Their promise of “A donor for every patient” underscores their commitment to life-saving missions. With over 120,000 registered donors and more than 800 successful transplants, BMDP’s impact is both profound and measurable. Their ongoing efforts to educate and engage the community make them a trusted and crucial resource in Singapore’s health landscape.

Moreover, since 1993, BMDP has been a lifeline for hundreds of patients with terminal blood-related diseases, managing Singapore’s only register of volunteer bone marrow donors. They ensure that every donation is secure and that donors can trust their contributions will genuinely save lives, with dedicated staff guide donors through the donation process, addressing any questions they may have and offering reassurance about the safety of the procedure. Additionally, donors have the opportunity to connect with previous marrow donors, further enhancing the organization’s commitment to transparency and authenticity.

August, being National Minority Awareness Month, highlights the importance of diverse and inclusive efforts in all areas of society, including donations. In the realm of bone marrow donations, having a diverse donor pool of all ethnicities and age groups is thus critical because it increases the chances of finding compatible matches for patients who often face challenges in locating suitable donors.

As such, in an era where transparency and authenticity are paramount, it’s crucial to direct young people toward such verified and trustworthy organisations.

One inspiring example of youth engagement is Samuel Yen, a recent Republic Polytechnic graduate awaiting NS enlistment. Samuel first encountered BMDP as a student and has since become a passionate advocate, drawing on his experience with volunteering and public service. Despite initial apprehensions from his family and the challenges of the donation process, Samuel’s journey exemplifies the selflessness of young donors and the vital role of organizations like BMDP in ensuring a secure, trustworthy, and transparent donation experience. His story serves as a reminder of the impact that one individual can have in the fight against blood-related diseases, encouraging others to step forward and make a difference.

Images: BMDP