Valley Grace Brethren Church of Hagerstown, Maryland (Dan Pritchett, pastor) will hold a bone marrow drive with the National Marrow Donation Program from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at Valley Grace Brethren Church, 17310 Gay Street.
The bone marrow drive was inspired by Big Pool resident Terri Tucker, who was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia.
There is no cost to donate. Donors must meet health guidelines, be between the ages of 18 and 60, and be willing to donate to any patient in need of a bone marrow match.
A simple cheek swab initiates acceptance into the registry. No needle sticks or blood draws are required for testing. Donors fill out a medical form and if they are identified as a match for a patient, NMDP will contact them. Qualified staff at a designated hospital center would perform a physical exam, information session and bone marrow aspiration.
Potential donors will be disqualified if they have one or more of the following conditions: HIV positive status; hepatitis; most forms of cancer or heart disease; chronic lung disease; diabetes requiring insulin; clotting or bleeding issues; recent back surgery or ongoing back problems; prior organ transplants; significant obesity; or autoimmune disorders such as lupus, multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis.