Moving from decision to preparation
Once you have been medically cleared and have confirmed that you are ready to proceed, the focus shifts to preparing your body for the donation. At this stage, everything becomes more structured and time-sensitive. Your donation date will be scheduled in close coordination with the patient’s treatment plan, and your DKMS team will guide you through each step so that you feel fully prepared and supported.
Preparing your body for donation
In South Africa, stem cell donation is done through a method called peripheral blood stem cell collection (PBSC). To prepare for this, your body needs to produce and release more stem cells into your bloodstream.
To support this, you will receive a naturally occurring growth factor called G-CSF for several days before your donation. These injections are usually given just under the skin and can be administered in the abdominal region. Our medical team will stay closely involved during preparation.
G-CSF is not a foreign substance, it is a substance your body already produces naturally. During this process, it simply helps increase the number of stem cells available for collection.
What you might feel during this time
As your body responds to G-CSF, it is normal to experience some temporary side effects. Many donors describe this as feeling similar to mild flu-like symptoms, such as:
- body aches or bone pain
- headaches
- fatigue
These symptoms are expected and usually manageable with simple pain relief. They typically improve shortly after the donation. Everyone experiences this stage differently, and your medical team will remain available to support you and answer any concerns you may have.
Planning around your donation
As your donation date approaches, we will work closely with you to make sure everything is in place. This includes:
- confirming your appointment at the collection centre
- arranging travel and accommodation if needed
- providing documentation for work, school, or university
Most donors are able to continue with their normal daily activities during this preparation phase, with only minor adjustments if needed.
At this stage, the timing of your donation is carefully aligned with the patient’s treatment. Before receiving your stem cells, the patient undergoes an intensive medical process to prepare their body for the transplant. This means that once the process has begun, your donation becomes a critical part of their treatment. While this can feel like a lot of responsibility, it’s important to remember that you are fully supported and guided throughout. Our team ensures that everything is planned carefully, with both your safety and the patient’s needs in mind.
You are supported every step of the way
As you move closer to your donation, your DKMS coordinator will remain your main point of contact. We will continue to:
- check in on your wellbeing
- guide you through each step
- answer any questions you may have
This stage is about preparing you physically, practically, and emotionally so that you feel ready and confident going into your donation.
Preparing for Donation
G-CSF is a naturally occurring growth factor that helps your body produce more stem cells. It prepares your body for the donation process.
Yes, daily activities can usually continue. However, some donors experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, or headaches after donation. These are temporary and manageable.
Some donors experience mild flu-like symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, or headaches. These are temporary and manageable.
