Bone marrow is the soft, jelly-like tissue that is found in the hollow centres of some bones. The bone marrow contains 'stem cells', which make blood.

What is donated bone marrow used for?
Bone marrow donations can provide the stem cells we all need to live. Bone marrow can be damaged during treatment for leukaemia or a related cancer of the blood, or simply may not function correctly resulting in life threatening forms of anaemia. Since bone marrow is needed to make blood, if a person’s bone marrow is damaged, they will need a stem cell transplant to survive.

How does bone marrow donation work?
To join a bone marrow registry you need to be over 18 and either willing to donate blood or attend a clinic to have a blood sample taken. Once you are on a bone marrow registry you might be approached to donate bone marrow if you are a good match for someone who needs it. Donating bone marrow involves a small operation or using a cell separator machine to get the life-saving stem cells.

Want to know more?

Check out our frequently asked questions about bone marrow donation.

Real stories
Read about Olivia who has benefited from a bone marrow transplant.

Read about Hamza who has donated bone marrow.