“I was one of the lucky ones"
Andy's Story In late 2023, Andy, a 53-year-old senior infrastructure security analyst with Scotmid, experienced blood loss during urination. His GP immediately referred him to a hospital in Edinburgh, where diagnostic tests confirmed he had leukaemia. Andy was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, a condition more prevalent in adults that can progress rapidly and aggressively. "I was admitted and started on chemotherapy drugs the same day," Andy recalls. The beginning marked a challenging period. "The mental journey is just as tough as the physical one," he remarks. Nonetheless, Andy considers himself fortunate because the chemotherapy was effective, allowing him to undergo a stem cell transplant. In his situation, his elder
brother was identified as a compatible match and was able to donate at the age of 58.
Hear Andy's story
Andy is now a year post-transplant and undergoes medical evaluations every six weeks. He is keen to promote awareness about the process and significance of stem cell donation. “If you're on the donor register and match someone needing a transplant, 90% of the time it's similar to donating blood platelets at any donation centre,” he explains. Andy’s message to potential donors is simple: “More donors are always needed.”
How can you help?
Joining the DKMS stem cell donor register is quick and easy:
• A ll it takes is some quick and painless mouth swabs and a few health questions • A nyone aged 17-55 and in general good health can sign up with DKMS. (You’ll stay on the register until your 61st birthday). • Go to www.dkms.org.uk/scotmid to order your free swab kit. Complete it and send it back: you’re all set! • G ot questions? Email DKMS info@dkms.org.uk or send a message on social media: @dkms.uk @dkms_uk • N ot eligible to become a donor? Please encourage friends, family or colleagues to sign up, or share our social media posts with them. www.dkms.org.uk/scotmid
29 Jigsaw - Summer 2025
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