So there we go! I’ve officially donated my blood stem cells! What an absolutely amazing, pain free experience that I’ve had! feel absolutely fine, and everything went smoothly as planned- and now my stem cells are all off to my recipient! Couple of days of recovery now, and hopefully should be my normal self! To anyone thinking about joining the registry, DO IT!!!

When the registry called and said I had been matched I felt like I had a unique opportunity to really help someone in need. It’s not often you get that sort of call. The recipient didn’t need just anyone’s cells but specifically my cells because these had the best chance of success. I think this appeals to the little bit of vanity in all of us – almost as if donors have special powers in a time of need. But it also meant I was 100% committed to making the donation and I did not begrudge the minor aches and pains that came with it.

I think there’s this idea that a lot of people have that donating will hurt. I didn’t find any of it painful at all. I thought I’d have to go under local anaesthetic but it was just like giving blood or getting an injection before you go on holiday. And to be honest, even if it was painful, I think a little bit of pain is okay when you’ve got the chance to save someone’s life.

Charlotte was nine months old when she was diagnosed with leukaemia. Her treatment included a life-saving stem cell transplant. Charlotte is in remission and wants to be either a doctor or ballet teacher when she grows up.