Two teenagers, separated by 5,000 miles, have both been saved with the assistance of the Mirror and are now well on their way to recovery. Last year, we shared the story of Leo Sproson, a 17-year-old battling leukemia, in need of a life-saving stem cell transplant. Thanks to our coverage, not only did Leo find a match for his transplant, but five additional matches were discovered from those who stepped up to help him, resulting in five lives being saved in addition to Leo’s own recovery.
Leo’s mother, Jenna, expressed her happiness at his progress, mentioning that he is now out of the hospital and back home. The response to the appeal for Leo’s donor not only aided him but also assisted others. At just 17 years old, Leo’s efforts have led to the saving of five lives and raised awareness about the importance of stem cell donors.
In another part of the world, in Zambia, 13-year-old Jasper Makungu, who suffers from Sickle Cell Disease, is undergoing recovery at home with his sister after receiving a life-saving transplant from his sister Mercy, with the help of the Mirror and blood cancer charity DKMS. Jasper’s journey to recovery started in his hometown of Kabwe, known as the most toxic town on earth.
Jasper’s father, Jackson, expressed gratitude for the successful treatment his son received, highlighting the importance of stem cell donors and the impact they have on saving lives. DKMS spokesperson Bronagh Hughes emphasized the need for more donors to come forward, as there are still many patients waiting for a matching donor, both in the UK and globally.
Both Leo and Jasper’s stories have inspired numerous individuals to register as potential donors, providing hope for those in need of life-saving transplants. DKMS encourages individuals to sign up for the registry, as a simple act of registering could potentially offer a second chance at life to someone in need.
