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, to raise awareness about stem cell transplantation among the target population of 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, we shifted the focus to raising funds for Matchis.
You probably heard on the news that there is a need for more potential stem cell donors in order to find a life-saving match for all patients in need of 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 major 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, that 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 to run or walk at Utrecht Science Park, all motivated 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/
