Donate to help save child’s life

Yusuf Choudhury, from the town, was diagnosed with the very rare blood disorder Fanconi Anemia in January 2010.

For many patients with a blood disorder, a blood stem cell donation is their only chance of survival, but only half of the people diagnosed in the UK find a matching donor.

Delete Blood Cancer UK will be at the Mela in Wardown Park on Saturday and Sunday to encourage people to register as potential blood stem cell donors.

Yusuf’s mother Laki said: ‘’Yusuf is on a cocktail of medication to help him survive. However, because of the nature of his illness medication will soon cease to work. Before that occurs it is vital we find a donor match to give him the best chance possible. Please come along to the event. ’’

Several fundraising activities will be taking place to raise money for Delete Blood Cancer UK. This money will go towards the cost of recruiting new donors as the tissue typing for one potential donor costs £40.

Aga Chrosciel, Donor Recruitment Manager at Delete Blood Cancer UK, explains the impact of the event: “Signing-up to become a potential lifesaver takes a few minutes but it could lead to you saving someone’s life. I encourage everyone who is able to, to come along to Luton Mela on Saturday and Sunday to support Yusuf’s appeal, and for all those seeking a lifesaving stem cell donation. People can also register online on our website www.deletebloodcancer.org.uk ”

The annual Mela will be a Wardown Park, Old Bedford Road on Saturday between 12pm-7pm and Sunday between 12pm-9:30pm with everything from Bhangra to Rock, Jazz, Soul and Ska. A free event for all the family.