Myths vs Facts
GET EDUCATED! LEARN THE TRUTH.
Sometimes, myths and misperceptions about stem cell and marrow donation can prevent someone from signing up. Imagine the lives we could save if everyone knew the true facts about donation!
You can help bust the myths about stem cell and marrow donation—and help save lives—by learning and sharing these facts.
MYTH:
Doctors take marrow from my spine!
FACT:
Doctors take liquid marrow from the hip bone —not the spine. This procedure is done less than 20% of the time.
MYTH:
They’ll need to break my bones to collect marrow.
FACT:
Doctors perforate the hip bone and use a syringe to extract liquid marrow. No broken bones here!
MYTH:
I have to pay to donate.
FACT:
Nope! NMDP covers travel, meals, and hotel for donors and one companion. All medical costs for the donation are covered by the patient’s medical insurance or NMDP.
MYTH:
Donating stem cells or marrow is like donating an organ, and I need it for myself.
FACT:
Donating stem cells is more similar to donating blood. Stem cells and marrow will replenish within a few weeks. You don’t lose it permanently!
MYTH:
It takes too much time! I can’t miss out on work or school.
FACT:
We understand that everyone has responsibilities, so NMDP works around donors’ schedules as much as possible.
By law, California employees are permitted to take up to 5 days of paid leave to donate marrow.
