(NewsUSA) - Individuals in India seeking life-saving bone marrow transplants have a new source of hope. Dr. Bart S. Fisher, Chairman of the Give Life Foundation, twice Nobel Prize nominee in Peace and Medicine, and patron member of the National Press Club, is set to launch the India Marrow Registry the largest in the world, along with a powerful awareness campaign. The launch will take place through a series of events in October 2024, culminating in a prestigious ceremony with the diplomatic community in Delhi in October. Dr. Fisher has been recognized globally for his efforts to establish marrow registries and advance healthcare.
The Give Life Foundation, a leading non-profit organization, is dedicated to improving healthcare access worldwide. In collaboration with PACT (Par Anand Charitable Trust), the Foundation is establishing the world's largest bone marrow registry to serve the critical needs of patients in India, where the demand for bone marrow transplants far exceeds the current donor pool. The Foundation's efforts will also support the H2OMovement, promoting sustainability and clean water access for all.
"We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Give Life Marrow Transplant Registry in India,” Dr. Fisher shared. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide accessible and effective healthcare solutions for those in need."
The need for bone marrow transplants is urgent. In India, an estimated 12,000 children are born each year with thalassemia major, requiring bone marrow transplants. Additionally, 10% of the 16,000 individuals diagnosed annually with leukemia also need transplants. Unfortunately, only 10%-20% of these patients find matches through current registries.
The Give Life Foundation also will sponsor several 5K Run/Walk events across India in October. These events, known as the March for Marrow, aim to raise awareness for the Swab for Life campaign, which encourages donor registration and highlights how simple it is to participate and potentially save lives. With a mission to recruit over 50 million voluntary donors, the new registry will collaborate with existing registries in India.
The H2O Movement Walk for Water Walk for Life Campaign another key focus of the Give Life Foundation, aims to raise awareness and funds for clean and accessible water. "With every step we take, we walk towards a world where no one has to struggle for clean water," said Sanjana Jon, a prominent advocate for humanitarian causes and Chair of Give Life India. PACT and the Give Life Foundation will work together in both marrow transplant and clean water efforts.
To learn more, visit www.give-lifefoundation.org.