Unrelated Bone Marrow Transplant Recipient Meets Donor

First Unrelated Bone Marrow Transplant Recipient in Central Florida Meets Donor

Florida Hospital Cancer Institute Hosts Inaugural Bone Marrow Transplant Reunion

ORLANDO, Fla., Sept. 8, 2009 - Approximately one year ago, Florida Hospital performed the first unrelated bone marrow transplant in the Central Florida area. On Aug. 30, the transplant recipient had the unique opportunity to meet the donor who saved his life at Florida Hospital Cancer Institute's Inaugural Bone Marrow Transplant Reunion.

Michael Richard, a 61-year-old, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2004. He later learned that he would need a bone marrow transplant to save his life. Richard initially received a transplant from his sister, but it was unsuccessful, leaving him with limited options. Doctors turned to the National Bone Marrow Registry to find a donor and they were able to find a match. In 2008, Richard received the first bone marrow transplant from an unrelated donor in Central Florida.

"I was only told was the age and gender of the donor," said Michael. "I was informed she was a 19-year-old female and that was it. But I was so grateful for her generosity because without her, I would not be alive today. I am now looking forward to spending time with my wife, children and grandchildren."

The anonymous donor was Kate Blubaugh, a 19-year-old, college student, from Shingle Springs, Calif. Blubaugh registered for the bone marrow transplant list as a senior in high school and only a few months later, she received a call informing her she was a match.

"I knew I had the opportunity to save someone's life," Blubaugh said. "The procedure was actually painless and was very similar to giving blood. I would do it again if I had the opportunity."

Due to federal regulations, unrelated donors and recipients must wait one year before making contact with one another. At the reunion, Richard and Blubaugh met for this first time in an emotional embrace. Richard's family was also present to share their heartfelt thanks with Blubaugh for her generosity.

"For me and my team, this is a success story," said Dr. Vijay Reddy, medical director of the Florida Center for Cellular Therapy at Florida Hospital Cancer Institute. "This was the first transplant performed using unrelated donors and recipients in Central Florida. It's a huge milestone for us in Orlando."

Florida Hospital Cancer Institute's Inaugural Bone Marrow Transplant Reunion was hosted to celebrate the lives of bone marrow transplant patients and donors. More than 175 people attended the reunion including patients, donors, family members, staff and friends.

For media inquiries only, please contact Florida Hospital Media Relations at 407-303-8213.

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