Aplastic Anemia MDS International Foundation, Inc.

P.O. Box 613Annapolis, Maryland 21404-0613 U.S.A.

Tel: 410.867.0242800.747.2820 Fax: 410.867.0240

Providing Global Support, Education & Research

For Immediate Release

APLASTIC ANEMIA&MDS INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION, INC

ENCOURAGES INDIVIDUALS ACROSS THE COUNTRY TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL

“MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY” BY DONATING BLOOD, PLATELETS AND BONE MARROW

(Annapolis, MD – October 13, 2003) “Citizens across the country can truly save a life this year by donating blood, platelets, and joining the National Bone Marrow Donor program,” says Marilyn Baker, Executive Director of Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation. “Bone marrow diseases such as aplastic anemia (AA), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) affect thousands of Americans each year regardless of age, race, or gender. Patients fighting these rare and life-threatening diseases need blood and platelet transfusions in order to survive. Please help save a life by donating blood, platelets, and becoming a bone marrow donor this October 23, 2003, National Make A Difference Day.”

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services approximately 32,000 units of blood are used each day in the United States. “I’ve been living with MDS for 13 years now, and I would not be here today were it not for the generosity of those who take the time to donate blood and platelets,” says Bob Carroll, President of AA&MDSIF. “I have had more than 550 transfusions since I was diagnosed with MDS. I am transfusion dependent, and these transfusions allow me to stay healthy and active and enable me to continue my career and community work.” It is estimated that more than 40,000 Americans each year are diagnosed with aplastic anemia, MDS and PNH and require blood and platelet transfusions on a regular basis.

Donating blood takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, including completing the paperwork. If you are 18 years old, in good health, and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds you can donate blood. In order to donate blood you must undergo a quick physical, complete a medical and travel history and the actual donation of blood. A snack will be provided to you. To donate blood contact: America’s Blood Centers at 1-888-BLOOD88 or or The American Red Cross by calling a local chapter listed in your phone directory or visiting To become a marrow donor contact: The National Marrow Donor Program at 1-800-526-7809 or To learn more about the Aplastic Anemia &MDS International Foundation, Inc. call 1-800-747-2820 or visit To contact your local “Make A Difference Day” coordinator, call (202) 729-8000 or visit

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For more information, contact: Alicia Moran at or 1-800-747-2820.

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