You are a potential match for a patient
After being on the registry, sometimes for months or even years; you may receive a call from us. This can feel unexpected, and often comes with a mix of emotions. Being identified as a potential match means that your tissue type is similar to that of a patient in need of a stem cell transplant. At this stage, you are one of a small group of donors being considered.
What it means to be a potential match
It’s important to understand that this does not mean you have been selected to donate just yet. This step is about taking a closer look to determine whether you are the best possible match for that patient.
When we contact you, our goal is to guide you through what this means and support you from the very beginning. During this call, we will explain the process in detail, answer any questions you may have, and check whether you are still willing and available to continue. You are not expected to have all the answers immediately; this is a conversation, not a commitment.
Many donors feel unsure at this stage, and that’s completely normal. We are here to make sure you feel informed, comfortable, and supported before taking any next steps.
Understanding your health and eligibility
Before moving forward, we need to make sure that donating stem cells would be safe for you. You will be asked to complete a health questionnaire and consent form. This helps us understand your medical history and identify any conditions that may prevent you from donating.
This step is entirely focused on your wellbeing. If there is any risk to your health, you will not proceed further. Your safety will always come first.
The blood test (confirmatory typing)
If you are happy to continue, we will arrange for you to provide a blood sample at a pathology laboratory closest to you. This step, known as confirmatory typing, allows us to take a much closer look at your tissue type and how closely it matches the patient. Your blood will also be screened for infectious diseases to ensure the safety of both you and the patient.
This is a routine and safe procedure, similar to a standard blood test, and we will guide you through everything you need to know.
What happens while you wait
Once your blood sample has been analysed, your results are shared with the patient’s medical team. They will compare all potential donors and decide who is the best possible match. This part of the process can take some a few days/weeks. While waiting, it’s completely normal to feel uncertain or to wonder what will happen next.
During this period, you remain a potential match. We will stay in touch with you and keep you informed as soon as there are any updates.
At this stage, nothing is final. You are still being considered, and you have the space to ask questions, take time to understand the process, and decide how you would like to move forward. If you are selected as the best match, we will guide you through this stage and the next steps. If not, you will remain on the registry and continue to be part of the search for other patients.
Why this step matters
For patients, this stage brings hope; it means that a possible match has been found.
For you, it is the moment where your decision could begin to directly impact someone’s life.
You are not expected to have everything figured out right away. What matters is that you feel informed, supported, and able to make the decision that is right for you.
