A South Holland man waiting for a stem cell transplant is organising a day of raising awareness – from his hospital in Nottingham.
Dan Chapman is in dire need of a transplant after being diagnosed with aplastic anaemia – a life threatening condition where bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells.
Doctors told him he needs a transplant from a compatible donor in order to recover.
He had his latest platelet transfusion last week, but it’s a temporary measure, not a cure.
The 31-year-old, was splitting his time between Holbeach and London, where he works. A keen runner, he noticed red spots after a Parkrun and a blood test confirmed his platelet count was dangerously low.
His brother Samuel was tested, but wasn’t a match so he is waiting for a suitable donor to register.
And he’s taking the opportunity to hold a multi-centred event later this month to recruit donors and highlight the work of the charity DKMS.
The charity raises awareness and funds for the fight against blood cancer.
Dan (pictured), is organising a donation station in Holbeach, Long Sutton, Sutton Bridge and Spalding on Saturday, September 20.
Each station will have DKMS representative and offers a swab test and questionnaire, and additional information for potential donors.
“I’ve had people say they’d love to help, but have a phobia about needles. But it’s a swab test, and not many people know,” said Dan.
“We are working with DKMS which will register people aged between 17 and 55, more or less our demographic,” he added.
Alongside the information available from each station, there will be fundraising, with a tombola, cake sale or similar to help boost funds for the charity.
“It’s also a way of me saying thank-you to everyone who has helped and supported me since I was diagnosed.
“In the future there will be other charity events like a bingo night.”
Daniel’s parents Tim and Susan, brother Samuel and nan Betty will each be starting the ball rolling at the donation stations later this month.
“It really is a family thing and to say thanks to everyone who has already helped along the way.
The venues are Pippa’s Pantry, Sutton Bridge; Unicorns and Riderz, Long Sutton; Shoestring Café Holbeach and there will be a dedicated stall on Spalding market.
“I’ve been organising this from 75 miles away and it’s been quite cathartic keeping me busy,” said Dan.
He can be contacted at [email protected] with ideas for fundraising, donating prizes and there’s also a Facebook event page people can join to keep up to date wit the donation day.
