Be the Match -- Join Today!
by Linda Allen


For more than a decade the St. Cloud Granite Rotary has sponsored a National Bone Marrow Registry Drive in St. Cloud. This year, for the 2nd time, the club has partnered with the St. Cloud Technical & Community College to conduct this event.

Last year the drive brought in an additional 209 names to the National Registry! The cost to cover the tests and the cost of the 'matching' process is funded each year in part by the Granite Rotary through its annual Rose Sales. Participants complete a simple registration form that includes contact information, health history and then provide a swab of their cheek cells so tissue type can be tested. This quick and easy process provides the ability to match life saving donors to those in need.

Fellow Rotarian, Janet Steinkamp, Dean of Health Sciences and Human Services, has led the charge of coordinating this fantastic effort these past 2 years. Janet credits SCTCC's common theme of community service and the outstanding support of about 45 dental, nursing, and education students who volunteered for last year's success.

Our goal is simple-- each member is asked to bring 2 people along with them to the drive on Wednesday, April 18th. The drive will be held at SCTCC from 11:00- 1:30 in the commons area.

Guidelines for joining the registry:
1) Be between 18-60 years of age
2) Be willing to donate to any patient in need
3) Meet the health guidelines

Let's truly make this a club sponsored event and get involved and help out!