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Be a proud lifesaver

Every 13 minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with blood cancer. An amazing stranger like you donating their stem cells could be their best chance at survival.

Everyone's welcome on the stem cell register

No matter your identity, you could be that lifesaving match someone is waiting for. Signing up to the stem cell register is quick and easy, so why not?

Here's a few things you need to know...

  • You need to be aged 16-30 to join the register.
  • You can join online. Fill out the short form and we'll send you a swab pack. All you need to do is swab your cheeks and send it back to us and we will add you to the register. It's that simple!
  • Most people on the register will never come up as a match, but those that do could save someone's life.
  • If you are a match, we will organise everything. From travel to accomodation to covering work expenses, we've got the whole process covered!
  • There are to ways you could be asked to donate, shown in our video below. You should be open to considering both methods of donation but do not have to agree via both methods.
  • You will stay on the register until you are 61.

So, ready to be a lifesaver this Pride?

Jay's Story

While still discovering their queer identity, at just 19, Jay was diagnosed with blood cancer. Following various unsuccessful treatments, Jay was told that a stem cell transplant would be their best chance of survival.

During their time in hospital, Jay developed their drag persona. Jay's nurses even organised for them to go to Drag World in London.  

Thanks to an amazing stranger, Jay received a stem cell transplant and, seven years on, is doing well and making the most of life. Recovery hasn't been easy, but they're grateful for how far they've come.

"I'll never be the person I was –  but I'm so happy I've been able to come back to something I love and just start having fun again"

A selfie of Jay (stem cell transplant recipient) and their drag persona

You're made of lifesaving stuff. Watch the video to find out more

A young man with brown hair and glasses, he's in a hospital bed with a white sheets pulled up to his chest, he's giving a thumbs up
Arden donated his stem cells in 2025

Being a young LGBTQ+ man, I knew it was important people like me signed up. I couldn't believe it when I heard I was a match.

The procedure was short, and I was relatively pain free afterwards; it just felt like a couple of small bruises!  
 
It feels amazing knowing someone somewhere in the world might be experiencing years of joy thanks to this simple procedure. Without a doubt, it's the proudest I am of anything I've done

Arden, stem cell donor

Ready to be a lifesaver?

For more information on how to join, the donation process or anything please contact us on register.support@anthonynolan.org

Other ways to help

If you don't join the register - or even if you do but want to do more - there are lots of other ways to help; You could:

  • Volunteer for us
  • Take part in a fundraising event
  • Like, share and support our campaigns
  • Fund a new donor
  • Join us at next pride in London!