In September, the month of the World Marrow Donor Day, GenDx organized their ‘Fit to Donate’ initiative.
Since 2018, GenDx has partnered with Matchis, the Dutch Center for Stem Cell Donors. The goal is to raise awareness about stem cell transplantation among young, healthy potential donors in and around Utrecht. This aligns with GenDx’s mission to improve the quality of life and survival chances of transplant patients. This year, the focus shifted to raising funds for Matchis.
You probably heard on the news that there is a need for more potential stem cell donors. This increases the chances of finding a life-saving match for all patients needing a stem cell transplant. Each new donation represents hope to get a second chance at life.
Did you know that it costs Matchis €35,- to type and register one single potential stem cell donor in the international database? With an aimed growth of 20,000 new registrations per year, this represents a significant expense. To cover these costs, Matchis largely relies on sponsorships and donations. That’s why GenDx decided to start a campaign on SterkvoorMatchis.nl, Matchis’ fundraising platform.
To support this ‘Sterk voor Matchis’ campaign, GenDx organized the ‘Fit to Donate’ initiative during the month of September. This culminated in the ‘GenDx Tulip Run’ on September 23. Inspired by previous “Tulip Runs” held during Immunogenetics conferences, this event brought together GenDx colleagues, friends, and family. Everyone was motivated to run or walk at Utrecht Science Park by a shared goal.
Our colleagues really went the extra mile in September. We look back on an amazing day filled with teamwork, laughter and a healthy sense of competitiveness. We raised an impressive € 3.850,- for Matchis – symbolizing one newly registered stem cell donor for each GenDx employee.
Learn more about the initiative at GenDx.com/stem-cell-donation/
