Be the Match: Take Part in the Stem Cell Donor Drive for Archer Franklin
You may have seen postings on social media for stem cell donor drives for 17-year-old Archer Franklin from Kelvington, Saskatchewan. Archer is a member of the 2022-23 U18 AA Humboldt Broncos, and was recently diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, a rare bone marrow disease. He now requires a bone marrow transplant.
Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious blood condition that occurs when your bone marrow cannot make enough new blood cells for your body to work normally. It can develop quickly or slowly, and it can be mild or serious. At this time, there is no way to prevent aplastic anemia.
“Archer went to the doctor because he had a rash and bruises all over his body,” his mom, Karri, shared. “They did blood tests and found a platelet count of three. We were sent to RUH that day, June 1, and have been here ever since. He has good days and some there have been some bad days in here due to severe drug reaction and infection.”
Symptoms of aplastic anemia include: fatigue, infections that last a long time, easy bruising or bleeding
Right now, Archer does not have a full match bone marrow donor in the registry. “Archer’s brother is a half match, so that is a possibility. The best is a full match so we are hoping one will be found,” Karrie shared.
Canadian Blood Services shared that over 75% of patients must rely on a volunteer stem cell donor from a registry and that nearly 1,000 people in Canada are in need of a stem cell transplant right now. Doctors are more likely to choose younger male donors, yet they make up only 40% of the registry.
On August 11 in Humboldt at the Bella Vista Inn from 3:00PM – 8:00PM there will be a stem cell donor drive for Archer. Everyone between the ages of 17-35 is encouraged to attend. Please bring your cell phone to confirm your email & registration.
If you would like to register with Canadian Blood Services, to be put on their registry, you can check your eligibility with a 2-minute health questionnaire.
Once you’re registered, a free swab kit will be delivered to your address in 1-3 weeks. When you recieve your swab kit, you can collect your own sample by gently swabbing the insides of your cheeks. When you’re done, just mail it back to Canadian Blood Services from any post office or drop box, free of charge.
For further information or to sign up, please visit https://makeallthedifference.blood.ca
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