Hope4Paul bone Marrow Donor Registry Drive

For our friends at the Orange County Buddhist Church we are spreading the word for a bone marrow registry drive (sponsored by Tanaka Farms and OCBC).

Paul Goodman of OCBC (and his mom) are past Jr. YBA members. Paul has also served as a counselor at LABCC. Paul, 29, is a beloved son, brother, and friend. Unfortunately, he recently relapsed from Leukemia and is in desperate need of a bone marrow match.

Who Should Register?

Many of you know that bone marrow matches for people of Japanese heritage are rare based on demographics, and more so for those of mixed heritage, Paul’s genetic background is half Japanese and half Jewish. Organizers urge everyone between the ages of 18 and 44 to register, as this age group includes the strongest candidates because of their health.

And the need for donors extends beyond Paul. As one example, Kazumi is a mom and Japanese schoolteacher in Arizona. She is just one of the bone marrow candidates hoping for a donor.

Next Steps

If You Live in San Diego or Outside the Los Angeles Area

We recommend registration at bethematch.org which will identify any registry drives near you, or you can request a home kit by mail.

If You Live in the Greater Los Angeles Area

Five drive-through events are sponsored for this weekend and next (Jan. 23, 24, 30 and 31). See this link for more details. Events follow the CDC's COVID-19 Safety protocols

More about Registration

It takes 5 minutes to complete the registration form and "swab". Unlike blood types, bone marrow is hard to match. Therefore, it is imperative to get as many people as possible registered. And if you are chosen as a donor, did you know that 77% of all transplants are non-surgical and 23% involve an outpatient procedure?

General Informational PDF on Blood Stem Cell Donation

The donation of blood stem cells is also tremendously important as a tool in fighting certain kinds of cancers. Download this informationsl flyer to learn more.

Other Resources

A Note from the Goodman Family

We are so grateful to everyone for the love, support, and encouragement we are receiving daily from family, friends, and the community. Just knowing that everyone is thinking of Paul gives us strength during this challenging time.