Question:
I am 9 months post-op, will this prevent me from being a bone marrow donor?

   — MONALRC (posted on October 26, 2003)

October 26, 2003
You need to talk to your surgeon about this. I do know that we are not allowed to donate blood - EVER - because of the dangers of becoming very anemic. I recently had a total knee replacement`and the orthopaedic surgeon wanted me to donate two pints of blood for myself; there was no way that it was allowed. Luckily, I didn't need blood with the surgery.
   — Patty_Butler

October 26, 2003
Definately talk to your surgeon. I was told I could give blood... as long as I felt okay and had been eating well. He just recommended I not do it routinely like I had before. But once in awhile he said would be ok.
   — Anne R.

October 26, 2003
Since 2 months post op I have given platlets every 2 weeks with the approval of my doctor. I can believe I am seeing this question here, because on Friday I was called late to see if I was interested in coming in for test to see if I can be a marrow donor. I haven't been able to reach my surgeon yet, but wonder what his answer will be. I can't see why he wouldn't approve of the procedure tho. I once before was a marrow donor and it is just a wonderful thing to know how much I am helping someone. Good luck to you.
   — barbara A.

October 26, 2003
I hope we can. My Mom's blood count keeps falling and she keeps needing blood transfusions. Scoping is showing nothing is wrong from "ether end". They are wondering if it is her bone marrow. If so, she's got mine whether it hurts me or not! I don't care IF I can help her. I sure hope in situations like that it is allowed.
   — Danmark