World Blood Cancer Day shines light on the urgent need for diverse stem cell donors

Each year on May 28th, the world unites to observe World Blood Cancer Day (WBCD)—a day dedicated to raising awareness about the fight against blood cancer and the life-saving potential of stem cell donations. This year’s campaign has reached new heights in South Africa, thanks to widespread support from the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and passionate voices rallying behind the cause.

For the first time ever, a WBCD television commercial is airing on SABC’s TV channels and radio stations, bringing the message to millions of households across the country. “We are deeply thankful to the SABC for their continued support,” organisers shared. “Their invitation to host donor drives at their offices in the Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape shows a genuine commitment to the cause.”

But WBCD isn’t just about one day—it’s about creating a lasting impact. Since the start of May, donor drives have been held at universities, colleges, workplaces, and community spaces. These efforts have added nearly 150,000 new potential donors to the registry—bringing hope to thousands of patients whose lives depend on finding a match.

The Power of Commitment

While the increase in registrations is encouraging, the organisation behind these efforts is also addressing a growing concern: non-commitment among registered donors.

“Signing up is just the beginning. What we truly need is unwavering commitment,” a spokesperson emphasised. “We understand that people may have fears or uncertainties, which is why every registered donor is assigned a ‘donor buddy’—a support system to answer questions and guide them through the process.”

A Hero in Waiting: Noah’s Story

Among those in desperate need of a donor is Noah, a fun-loving young boy who enjoys dirt bikes and playing Fortnite. His world turned upside down when what appeared to be measles developed into something far more serious. Persistent bleeding from his nose and mouth led doctors to conduct extensive tests, ultimately diagnosing him with Fanconi anaemia, a rare and life-threatening blood disorder.

Noah’s life now hangs in the balance. He’s undergone countless transfusions, but these are only temporary solutions. His only hope is a stem cell transplant from a matching donor. Tragically, 70% of patients like Noah don’t find matches within their families—they must rely on complete strangers to step forward.

“We’ve had to build a bubble around him,” says Noah’s mother, Tyler. “Even the simplest activities—like visiting family—are too risky. I check on him constantly, terrified something will happen in the night.”

Tyler is urging the public to act. “Many people think it’s a painful operation—it’s really not. You’re not just donating cells. You’re giving someone another chance at life. And I need my son.”

Noah deserves the chance to grow up, ride his dirt bike, and laugh with his sister. You could be the one to make that possible.

Ways You Can Help

There are many ways to support World Blood Cancer Day and help save lives like Noah’s:

Spread the Message

Help raise awareness by talking to your friends, families, and colleagues about the importance of stem cell donation. Awareness can lead to action—and action saves lives.

Host a Donor Drive

The more ethnically diverse our donor registry, the better the chances that every patient can find a match. Contact the donor recruitment team at info@dkms-africa.org to host a drive at your workplace, church, sports club, or event.

Make a Monetary Donation

A donation of just R50 can cover the cost of a swab kit used to register a new donor. The fundraising team ensures that neither patients nor donors face financial hurdles. For more information or to contribute, email fundraising@dkms-africa.org.

The Road Ahead

The journey to end blood cancer is far from over, but every donor drive, every registration, and every donation brings us closer to that goal. As we reflect on the progress made this World Blood Cancer Day, we’re reminded of what’s at stake—real people, real families, real futures.

Don’t let this be just another story you read and scroll past. Take action. Register. Donate. Host. Share.

Because someone, somewhere—like Noah—is counting on you.