The family of Lara Casalotti, a 24-year old student from Hampstead in London, are breathing a sigh of relief after finding a stem cell donor whose cells could cure Lara’s leukaemia. Her chance at recovery is possible thanks to doctors locating this rare stem cell donor halfway across the globe.

A global campaign was undertaken to find Lara’s rare stem cell donor, with one eventually being found in Thailand. It was difficult to find a compatible donor for Lara because she is of mixed heritage, having Thai and Italian parents.

Lara was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in December and doctors immediately informed her that a stem cell transplant gave her the greatest chance of survival. Unfortunately, she faced an uphill battle finding a compatible donor because her mixed race heritage meant only 3% of worldwide donors have a chance of being compatible.

The search focused on Thailand and Italy, because people there had the greatest chance of compatibility. Thankfully a match has been found and the stem cells will be taken from the donor sometime in March. Because the process is anonymous, Lara still doesn’t know who the donor is. After the procedure has been completed, Lara and the donor are given the option of meeting.

Lara is studying for a master’s degree in global migration in London — she has a very bright future ahead of her if she can beat this disease. Finding this rare stem cell donor has greatly improved her chances of survival and brought much joy to her family.

Doctors hope that Lara’s story encourages more people to register as donors, particularly if they have mixed heritage. Lara’s mother, Supanya, said: “As a mum, I feel pure relief as we knew the odds were stacked against Lara.”

Source: Family speak of relief as Leukaemia sufferer finds rare stem cell donor

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