Facts and Figures
What is Bone Marrow or Stem Cells?
Bone marrow or stem cells are a liquid tissue found inside the bones which produce blood cells. The blood cells they produce include oxygen-carrying red blood cells, the infection-fighting white blood cells and the platelets, which enable the blood to clot.

When is it used?
Bone marrow or stem cells have been used as therapy for several potentially fatal blood disorders since the late '60's. Bone marrow and/or stem cells are used to treat patients with:
  • blood-related cancers (leaukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma)
  • solid tumors
  • lack of normal blood cell production
  • inherited diseases
  • immune system disorders

What is a Stem Cell transplant?
A stem cell transplant is the infusion of healthy stem cells into your body when either your bone marrow stops working or your body does not produce enough healthy cells. In a stem cell transplant, cells from the patient's body may be used, from a matching donor or from umbilical cord blood.

Is Stem Cell or Bone Marrow the same as embryonic stem cells?
No. The hematopoietic stem cells are the blood forming stem cells and are not the same as embryonic stem cells. Hematopoietic stem cells divide to form more blood forming cells or they mature into one of three types of cells: 1. white blood cells- which fight infection; 2. red blood cells- which carry oxygen; or 3. platelets- which help the blood to clot.
Why
The reality is there are many people in need. The patients in the Stem Cell / Bone Marrow Transplant Unit are typically isolated to their rooms, as the exposure to infection can jeopordize their life.

Imagine for just a minute spending your days and nights in a hospital room, a room you are sharing not only with your sick child. A room with no bathroom, no shower and very little privacy.  Aside from the emotional burden, there becomes a physical challenge, begining with lack of sleep.

Together we can make a difference in the lives of the patients and families.  It's the little things that often make the biggest impact.

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