Thinking of becoming a lifesaver? Here are a few things you should know:

• To apply to join the stem cell register, you need to fill our online form to request a swab pack. This will be posted to you, you complete and post back.
• Joining the register is easy and free.
• You need to be aged 16–30 to join our stem cell register.
• You’ll stay on the register and you can still donate until you turn 61.
• Most people on our register will never come up as a match.

If you have moved abroad you can no longer be on the Anthony Nolan register. Please contact the register support team to be removed from the register: register.suport@anthonynolan.org

Requesting a new donor card

Please contact Anthony Nolan directly:

Email: register.support@anthonynolan.org
Phone: 0207 424 6567

When contacting, please provide:

• Your full name
• Date of birth
• Current postal address
• Mention that you need a replacement donor card

While you wait

Remember that:

I understand that having a fear of needles (needle phobia) can be concerning when thinking about stem cell donation. Let me address this with the information from the provided context.

I'm very sorry to hear about your cancer diagnosis. Let me provide you with some important information about how this affects your status with Anthony Nolan.

Important medical information

If you're already on the register

You will need to be removed from the stem cell register. This is to protect both your health and the health of potential recipients. Your own health and recovery should be your primary focus at this time.

Already registered with DKMS?

Thank you for your interest in joining the stem cell register! I can help clarify this important question.

Key information

You do not need to join multiple registers. Here's why:

• All UK registries (including Anthony Nolan and DKMS) are part of the unified Anthony Nolan and NHS Stem Cell Registry
• When searching for a match, the system automatically checks all UK registers regardless of which one you joined
• Joining multiple registers could lead to duplicate entries and inefficient searching

To update your address or any other contact details on the Anthony Nolan register, you can follow these steps:

Requesting a new swab pack

I can help guide you regarding your swab pack request.

Common reasons for needing a new pack

• Original pack was lost in the mail
• Pack was damaged or incomplete
• Swabs were not used within the recommended timeframe
• Original pack has expired

What to do next

If you've never received your pack

First, please allow up to 5-7 working days for delivery of your initial pack. If it's been longer than this, you may need to check:

How to join the Anthony Nolan stem cell register

I'll guide you through the process of joining the stem cell register.

Eligibility criteria

Before applying, please check if you meet these basic requirements: