the family of a teenager with leukemia from Northern Ireland urges people to enroll in the stem cell registry, as a transplant is their only chance of survival.
The appeal for help from 16 to 30-year-old men is made by the family of 14-year-old Daniel Greer, from Newrywho was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia two months ago.
He has been at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children since his diagnosis and is being treated with aggressive chemotherapy.
doctors have said his only chance of survival is through a stem cell donation, as this would help rebuild his immune system.
His mother, Anne Greer, said: “Daniel is a wonderful, bright young man who lights up every room he enters.
“His wicked sense of humor keeps us going, even now that he’s in hospital and undergoing chemotherapy.
“I know he is very proud that his story inspires people to sign up for the stem cell registry.
“Those people will potentially help him, as well as many other people around the world who urgently need a stem cell transplant, such as Daniel.”
Young men make up more than half of all stem cell transplants for patients with blood cancer and blood disease, but they represent only 18% of the registry, according to the Anthony Nolan blood cancer charity, which helps with the international appeal, called the DoItForDaniel campaign.
Daniel complained of back and neck pain before a series of blood tests confirmed his illness.
Aggressive chemotherapy is used to put him into remission, so he may be able to get a transplant.
Only one in four people find a match within the family.
Daniel needs a stem cell transplant from an unrelated donor. His older brother James is not a match.
It is hoped that the sports and music fanatic, who enjoys all things outdoors, can continue to enjoy diving, mountain biking and rugby.
Daniel is also a member of the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland, where he plays trumpet.
Hometown support so far has included encouraging Newry pharmacies to sign up people for the stem cell registry.
There has also been an awareness campaign about stem cell donation at Belfast International Airport.
Anthony Nolan CEO Henny Braund said: “Finding his suitable donor would mean everything to Daniel and his family. We are determined to support Daniel as he awaits news about the donor who could save his life.
“Last year, more than 1,300 people around the world with blood cancer or a blood disease were given a second chance at life thanks to the amazing people who signed up on the Anthony Nolan registry.
“But too many people, like Daniel, are told there is no suitable donor for them.
“Applying to the registry is quick and easy, and we urge anyone in good general health, especially young men ages 16-30, to step up and potentially save the life of someone like Daniel.”
People aged 16-30 can go online at www.anthonynolan.org/DoItForDaniel to register with the Anthony Nolan Registry.