On Wednesday, February 9, the Department of Minority Affairs at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston sponsored the first marrow registration and blood drive on campus. The event, which was held during Black History Month, was well attended by many students, faculty and staff. A goal of 50 new participants for the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) had been set. The drive, which was held from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., fell short of the set goal by only three people.

A mixture of Caucasians, African-Americans, Hispanics, Asian Pacific Islanders and those of multiple races were added to the pool for the National Marrow Donor Program. The NMDP is a national registry consisting of volunteers who are willing to be called upon if there is a chance that their marrow may become a life saving gift to a patient. For many diseases, such as leukemia and aplastic anemia, a bone marrow transplant may provide some patients with a cure for their disease.

Community Blood Services of Illinois encourages any minority group to call the blood center for more information about how the group can sponsor a marrow typing drive. While Caucasians are well represented within the registry, there is a great need for all minorities to consider registering for the program.