She's not human, but the crisis is
Her journey is scripted, but for many, it's a harsh reality. Every year, 12,000 patients are diagnosed with life-threatening blood cancers or other diseases for which a blood stem cell transplant from an unrelated donor may be their only hope of a cure. Follow Lil Miquela as she takes you through her curated patient journey and discover how you can get involved and make a life-saving difference.
By joining the NMDP RegistrySM, you could become a blood stem cell donor. Start by registering, get your swab kit, swab and send it back. These few simple steps could change everything for a patient in need and be a life-changing experience for you.
What's it like to be a donor? Just ask Noah.
My heart is so full... if I were to meet my patient a year from now, I definitely would love to see them doing well.
Noah
Blood stem cell donor
Time matters. So does your yes.
- Every 3 to 4 minutes, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with a blood cancer.
- In 2024, we helped 7,994 patients.
- Our goal is to help 10,000 patients a year by 2028.
To do that, we need as many people as possible to join the registry and say yes if they are called as a match.
Donating myths vs. facts
Myth: "Donating is dangerous."
Fact: It's a common misconception that donating is dangerous. There are actually very few risks associated with donating peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) or marrow.
Myth: "Donating is so painful."
Fact: Discomfort and side effects vary from person to person, but it's not what you see on TV either! Donors may experience headaches, body aches or tiredness.
Myth: "Donating is expensive."
Fact: It's 100% free for you. We cover your travel and medical expenses, even lost wages if you miss work.
Myth: "Sharing your info and DNA is risky."
Fact: Your privacy is protected, start to finish. Your blood stem cells get delivered straight to the patient.
Got questions?
While Miquela is not real, thousands of real people are searching for a match every year. Joining the NMDP Registry means you could be someone's cure – someone's chance at life.
Not quite ready?
No worries, there are so many ways to join the movement to save lives. You can help push our mission forward with financial support—every dollar helps save lives.