Iota Phi Theta to hold blood marrow registration drive

By Northern star staff

Iota Phi Theta will hold a bone marrow registration drive Wednesday in an effort to help blood cancer patients find donors.

There are very low rates of bone marrow donors in the national registry, said Collan Davidson, Iota Phi Theta Beta Nu chapter president.

“People need to register because there is a need,” Davidson said. “Six out of 10 patients can’t find a bone marrow donor.”

The inspiration for holding the registration drive came from donor recruitment coordinator Amanda Schamper, who survived cancer because of a bone marrow transplant, Davidson said.

“We looked at [Schamper’s] story, and my fraternity was inspired to support her,” Davidson said.

Iota Phi Theta will hold the drive from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Holmes Student Center, Diversions Lounge. Registration, which is sponsored by Delete Blood Cancer, is free and takes about five to ten minutes.

Participants are required to weigh between 110 pounds to 380 pounds, be at least 4-feet-10-inches and be between ages 18 and 55. Those registering must be in good health and provide information regarding their and their family’s health history.

Go to Delete Blood Cancer’s website for more information.