Seventeen-year-old Leo Sproson from Bromsgrove never imagined that his fatigue would signal something far more serious than college stress. While studying electrical engineering, Leo began feeling unusually tired and noticed large bruises appearing on his body. Concerned, his mother Jenna took him to the doctor, where blood tests revealed he had acute myeloid leukaemia, a form of blood cancer.
Leo was admitted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital and immediately required a blood transfusion. Doctors informed the family that a stem cell transplant was crucial for his recovery. Unfortunately, no matching donor was found within his family, prompting a search for a compatible stem cell donor elsewhere.
Partnering with the blood cancer charity DKMS UK, Leo’s family rallied the local community to raise awareness and encourage stem cell donor registration. A dedicated event in Bromsgrove saw more than 700 people sign up, completing a painless mouth swab and health questionnaire to join the register.
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In December, a life-changing moment came when an anonymous donor was matched to Leo. Jenna expressed their gratitude: “We were blessed just before Christmas with the best gift we could ask for. Not only did Leo achieve remission, but he also found a stem cell donor match, giving him a real chance to recover.”
By February, Leo underwent the much-anticipated stem cell transplant. Though his journey to full health continues, he has returned home and is feeling hopeful. “It’s amazing to be home,” Leo shared. “I’m grateful to everyone who signed up as donors. Even if my donor could be anywhere, those who joined the register are already helping people like me.”
The community’s support has had a ripple effect. Several people who joined the register at the Bromsgrove event have since been identified as potential matches for other patients worldwide, offering hope beyond Leo’s case.
Jenna reflected on their mission: “If we can help find a match for even one other person, we consider that a success.”
DKMS UK spokesperson Bronagh Hughes emphasized the importance of donation on World Blood Cancer Day: “Most patients needing a stem cell transplant cannot find a match within their families. Registers like DKMS offer vital hope by connecting strangers willing to donate. It’s a simple process to join, and donors can save lives.”
New figures reveal that only 3.8% of 16–55 year-olds in the West Midlands are registered donors, slightly above the national average—but still far too low to meet demand. Every 14 minutes, someone in the UK is diagnosed with blood cancer, and for many, a stem cell transplant is their best chance at survival.
Anyone aged 16 to 55 in good health is encouraged to register by ordering a free swab kit from DKMS. Joining is easy, painless, and could one day give someone like Leo a second chance at life.