A young family from Barlaston and Stone are urging more people to join the stem cell donor register as dad James begins another round of treatment for blood cancer.
Life at home has felt different in recent weeks. James was admitted to hospital seven weeks ago, returning only recently for a short break before his next chemotherapy cycle. In that time he has been apart from both of his sons, Reu who is eighteen, and baby Beau who is eight months old.
His partner Tallulah said, “For James, one of the hardest things is not being able to see our 8 month old baby, Beau, because of his weakened immune system.”
Although James has also missed time with Reu, precautions around infection have meant he has had to limit all close contact.
The diagnosis has brought uncertainty, though there is still a route forward. If the next round of chemotherapy puts James into remission, he will hopefully be able to receive a stem cell transplant. Without it, his doctors have explained there is a high chance the cancer would return.
Tallulah said, “It has been incredibly tough, but we are so lucky to have a strong support system. It has been seven weeks since James was admitted for treatment.
“He is now having a two week break at home but will be going back into hospital for his next cycle of chemotherapy. If this round puts him in remission, he will then hopefully be able to have a stem cell transplant. His condition is treatable, but without a transplant, there is a high chance his cancer would return.”
The family is asking people to consider joining the stem cell donor register, not only for James but for the many others still waiting for a match.
“Joining the register could save someone’s life. You never know the impact you could have. I was surprised by how easy the kit is, it is literally just a mouth swab,” Tallulah said.
Support from neighbours, friends and even strangers has helped the family stay steady during a difficult few months. Tallulah added, “The support has been amazing, overwhelming at times. James has struggled to take in just how much love he has received.”
Local residents aged 17 to 55 can join the register through DKMS, who are working with the family to widen the search. You can register at dkms.org.uk/Jamesh_fb
The family hopes that by sharing their story, more people across Barlaston, Stone and Staffordshire will consider signing up.
