I am running the Edinburgh Marathon this year. Why on earth is the guy who skived cross country every year he was at school running a marathon? 

Well, in December 2019 my brother, William, was diagnosed with aplastic anemia. In a nutshell this meant that his bone marrow had stopped making blood, he had 1/3 of the amount of blood in his body that he was supposed to. He needed a stem cell transplant. 

Unfortunately his twin, Olivia's stem cells weren't a match so we were put in contact with Anthony Nolan. Luckily through their register a matching donor was found which, it is no exaggeration to say, saved his life. 

Before our own experience with blood disorders we, as you probably are reading this, were completely unaware of the world of stem cells and transplants. The facts, however, are stark - every 14 minutes someone in the UK is told they have blood cancer or a blood related disorder. This can happen to anyone. William had no prior health problems and we have no family medical history of blood problems. Over 2000 people in the UK need a stem cell transplant every year. 

Every day, Anthony Nolan saves the lives of people with blood cancer or blood disorders. They do this by matching incredible individuals willing to donate their stem cells to people who desperately need a lifesaving transplant. In 2019 Anthony Nolan gave 1300 people a second chance of life. They also carry out cutting edge scientific research, fund specialist post-transplant nurses and support patients and their families through the transplant process and beyond. Their ambition is to save the lives of everyone who needs a stem cell transplant. 

There is an easy way to support which will cost you nothing - join the donor list. All you have to do is fill in a form. Here: 

https://www.anthonynolan.org/8-ways-you-could-save-life/donate-your-stem-cells

In particular they want people aged 16-30 - apparently the stem cells are better from younger people. If you're over 31, you're not off the hook, please also join the DKMS register. You only need to join one of the registers as they all work with each other and once you are signed up you are there until you're 61. 

The past year has obviously been hard for everyone, especially charities who have really struggled to maintain their fundraising. I wanted to give something back to the charity which has helped my family so much. 

You can also support by donating. I'm running the Edinburgh Marathon in May 2021 and seeking sponsorship. Please donate on this page AND join the register if you can. 

George