How Fate Turned Petro’s Meeting With A Patient Into A Life-Saving Match

Not long after signing up, Petro got the call that she was a match. What she didn’t know, though, at the time, was that she was actually the match for that very same little girl who had inspired her to register.

“I’ve always believed we’re part of a larger world, that small acts of kindness can ripple into something life-changing,” Petro says. “So I was thrilled to be able to make a difference in this way.”

Knowing a previous donor had withdrawn, she worried she might not qualify; she was nearing 50, but according to Petro, everything went smoothly: “My thoughts were with the patient and what they were going through the entire time. I had light-headedness for a couple of hours after the Neupogen injections, but nothing that couldn’t be eased with over-the-counter pain medication. By day three, I felt 100% again.”

Then, during Petro’s first online contact with the family, destiny revealed its full circle. Petro discovered that the little girl who received her stem cells was the same child she had met back in 2022.

“I felt beyond privileged and humbled to play a part in her recovery,” Petro says. “From this experience, it really taught me a lot, and I’d like to call on South African’s to take the chance.”

“Who knows, tomorrow, it could be you or someone you love in need of a stranger’s donation. And if you do sign up, please commit fully. Patients and families have already endured so much, let’s not give them hope only to take it away,” said Petro.

If you are between 17 - 55 and in good health, you can make a difference today. Register and help give patients a second chance at life.

Remember, all costs related to the donation process are taken care of by DKMS Africa.