Understanding Stem Cell Donation
Learn about the donation process and how you can help save lives
The Donation Process
A blood stem cell donation from a healthy donor replaces a recipient patient's unhealthy stem cells to help heal and re-boost their blood and immune systems. We're with you every step of the way.
Confirm your health
Months or years may pass after registration. Our comprehensive health screening confirms you're still eligible to donate if selected as a match.
Information session
A registered nurse will schedule a phone information session to discuss donation details.
Blood test
Visit a nearby Canadian Blood Services clinic for blood samples to test for infectious diseases.
Physical examination
A physician at the donation hospital will perform routine medical tests to confirm your health status.
Confirm participation
Sign a consent form after medical clearance. The patient will then begin their pre-transplant treatments.
Donate to the patient
Your collected stem cells will be transported to the transplant hospital and infused into the patient.
What Happens After Donation?
Resume normal activities
Most donors can return to their usual activities the next day.
Stem cell regeneration
Your bone marrow continuously makes new blood stem cells, quickly replacing the ones you donated.
Meeting the recipient
Some donors can meet the stem cell recipient if both parties agree, creating a special experience.
How are stem cells matched?
Not all patients can match with just any donors. Potential stem cell donors are matched to patients through our "HLA" (Human Leukocyte Antigen) system. This genetic signature controls how our immune system functions and recognizes external threats.
HLA determines whether the recipient's defense system will accept and work well with the donor's stem cells. Since everyone's HLA markers differ, finding a match can be challenging, even among family members.
A diverse and large pool of stem cell registrants increases the chances of finding suitable matches for patients in need.
Facts vs. Fiction
Myth
Stem cell donation involves spinal cord surgery
Fact
Stem cells are never taken from the spinal cord. Collection happens through blood draw, pelvic bone procedure, or umbilical cord blood collection.
Myth
All stem cell donations require surgery
Fact
Most donations are non-surgical, performed through a needle in the arm, similar to giving blood. Only bone marrow donation involves a surgical procedure.
Myth
The donation process is extremely painful
Fact
Bone marrow donation is done under general anesthesia. PBSC donation is a non-surgical procedure with mild discomfort. Recovery involves mild-moderate soreness.
Myth
Recovery takes months
Fact
Peripheral blood donors usually return to work the next day. Bone marrow donors typically resume normal activities within 2-3 weeks.
Myth
Family members are always the best donors
Fact
Only 25% of patients find matching donors within their family. Most successful matches come from unrelated donors with similar ethnic backgrounds.
Myth
Donated stem cells don't regenerate
Fact
Your body completely replaces donated stem cells within six weeks. Most donors return to their routine within days.
Have More Questions?
If you or your family have specific questions not covered here, please reach out: