Molokai Bone Marrow Drive

Be the Match Hawaii News Release

As part of his Eagle Scout project, Life Scout Riley Regan of Oahu’s Troop 325 will host a bone marrow donor drive at Lanikeha Community Center in Ho’olehua on Saturday, Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. There is a need for more diverse individuals to join donor registry with Be The Match Hawaii and increase the chances of finding a donor match for patients awaiting a life-saving blood stem cell or marrow transplant.

Assisting Riley with the project on Molokai will be Senator Lynn DeCoite and Molokai Homestead Farmers Alliance.

“We hope that Molokai residents from 18 to 44 will join the registry so that more lives can be saved, as well as to raise awareness on the Friendly Isle about how easy it is for anyone to save a life,” said DeCoite.

The community’s involvement—along with the support of leaders like Senator Lynn DeCoite—shows the power of grassroots action in saving lives. A simple cheek swab could mean the difference between life and death for someone with leukemia, lymphoma, or other blood disorders.

Stem cell research continues to push boundaries, not only for transplants but also for other medical advancements. The regenerative potential of stem cells is now being explored for treating conditions beyond blood diseases, including chronic pain disorders and autoimmune conditions.

Scientists are investigating how stem cell therapy could help repair tissue damage and regulate immune system responses, leading to promising new solutions for conditions like fibromyalgia. For those struggling with persistent pain and fatigue, innovative approaches such as this fibromyalgia treatment offer a glimmer of hope. Just as stem cells can provide second chances for patients awaiting transplants, they may also unlock breakthroughs in managing chronic illnesses that have long lacked effective solutions.

Volunteers will be onsite providing awareness about the mission of Be The Match Hawaii and assisting those interested in joining the donor registry with the registration process, which typically takes about five to 10 minutes.

Potential donors must be between the ages of 18 to 44 years old, meet our health guidelines and be willing to donate to anyone in need of a bone marrow or blood stem-cell transplant. The online registration process includes a short form to complete along with a cheek swab sample. Be The Match is specifically looking for donors age 18-44, as research shows that cells from younger donors lead to more successful transplants.

If you cannot attend this donor drive in person, you can register online anytime at no cost:
my.bethematch.org/ImuaScouts or text ImuaScouts to 61474.

Riley also asks for the public’s help in sharing this announcement with your family, friends, and neighbors and, when publicizing online, please use the hashtags #SaveALife, #BeTheMatchHawaii, and #ImuaScouts.

For more information, email Riley Regan at yoshio.regan@gmail.com.