This World Blood Cancer Month; Be The Match

World Blood Cancer Day is observed globally on 28 May to raise awareness for patients diagnosed with blood cancers and to encourage more people to join the stem cell donor registry. At DKMS Africa, we have expanded this important day into World Blood Cancer Month, dedicating the entire month of May to building awareness, sharing patient stories, encouraging conversations, and inspiring more people to join the stem cell donor registry ahead of World Blood Cancer Day on 28 May.

For many patients, a stem cell transplant is their only chance of survival. But most will not find a matching donor within their family. They rely on someone they have never met.

No two patients experience blood cancer in the same way. Some are still searching, some are in treatment, and some have already found a second chance. But they are all part of the same system. A system that depends on people choosing to register and becoming potential life savers.

This month, we are sharing stories that reflect this reality. Different patients, different journeys, but all connected by the same need: a match.

Claire; A second chance, against the odds

Zibusiso is still waiting for a stem cell donor to survive.

Register. Share. Take Action.

Awareness alone is not enough. Action is what changes outcomes.

You can make a real difference by taking one simple step and encouraging others to do the same.

• Register as a stem cell donor
• Share these stories with your community
• Encourage others to join the registry

If you’re sharing, keep it simple and personal. For example:
“For World Blood Cancer Month, I registered as a stem cell donor. You could be someone’s second chance at life.”

Use the campaign hashtags to help spread the message:
#WorldBloodCancerMonth #UnitedInUniqueness #BeTheMatch #DKMSAfrica

Every new registration increases a patient’s chance of finding a match.

If you are between 17–55, in good health, and living in South Africa, you could be a potential stem cell donor. The process is simple, free, and could save a life.

• Register online
• Receive your swab kit
• Return it and join the stem cell registry