Erica Jensen’s Post

WMDA’s mission is to work with our members to ensure reliable provision of life-saving cells while promoting care and safety for both patient and donor. Through the global collaboration of the WMDA community, we have developed the groundbreaking Search & Match Service. Remarkably, 50% of patients searching for a stem cell donor find their match in another country, highlighting the incredible power of international cooperation. In 2018, Ramabele from South Africa was diagnosed with leukemia. Thanks to a selfless stranger, he received a life-saving blood stem cell transplant. Last night, at the International Donor Registry Conference, Ramabele experienced an unforgettable moment as he met his donor, Pete, for the first time. Pete, a U.S. Air Force veteran and minister, registered with NMDP in 1996, and two decades later, he gave the precious gift of life to Ramabele. This heartwarming reunion, made possible thanks to NMDP, South African Bone Marrow Registry, and WMDA, beautifully illustrates the profound impact of our collaborative efforts. Global collaboration is essential as we strive for a world where every patient has access to life-saving cellular therapies, and where the rights and safety of donors are always protected. We extend our deepest gratitude to NMDP. As our event partner, their support has enabled us to gather in South Africa and share this awe-inspiring evening. A special thank you to Amy Ronneberg, Erica Jensen and Rhianna Kern for their hardwork, dedication and compassion. Thank you, NMDP, for ensuring that every patient and donor truly matters. Witnessing the life-saving difference we make for patients, whilst safeguarding donors, is an incredible privilege. This evening stands as a testament to our shared commitment to transforming lives through unity, compassion, and unwavering dedication. #allpatientsanddonorsmatter #strongertogether #nmdp #acrossborders #globalcollaboration #collaboration #makeadifference

Thank you to the Today Show for featuring my work using social media to combat racism in medicine! As I said in the article, "There are literally equations that embed racism (in medicine), and depending on your race, it will impact your care." Equations like the GFR equation (which thankfully as of 2021 no longer includes race as a factor) used to have "racial corrections" that led to Black people's kidney's being treated differently than all other races. For the full article and to read more about my work, follow the link! Special thanks to Meghah Holohan for the write-up.

It will take all of us to save one of us. We're celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth by honoring the accomplishments of Black people, uplifting Black stories and committing to Black wellness. We recognize the progress that is necessary and continue to work to ensure every patient can receive the life-saving blood stem cell transplant they need. You can be a changemaker and impact the future of Black patients. Make history today so patients can make history tomorrow: http://ms.spr.ly/60445ESEA #BHM #BeTheMatch #healthequity

For too long, health inequities have not been addressed, but we’re on a mission with our Health Equity Accelerator Award winners to change that. Learn more about StopAFIB.org, The American Society of Transplantation, Summit Health Cares, and Be The Match’s work to improve outcomes for all.