Transplanted Stem Cells Save Young Robin's Life

In a heartwarming tale of friendship and compassion, Daniel Schäfer, a resident of Rotenburg an der Fulda, has become a hero to a young boy named Robin. Three years ago, Robin was diagnosed with leukemia, a devastating blow to his family.

During a time when Robin and his family needed hope, Daniel stepped forward. He had registered with DKMS, a stem cell donor centre, three years prior, and six months after his registration, received a call that he might be a potential stem cell donor for a child in need.

The families met in Kiel, by the Fjord, where they spent a day filled with joyous moments. They visited a seal pool, enjoyed fish rolls and ice cream, and even found time to build Lego together. Robin's parents, Christoph and Marike, along with his little brother Johann, were present, as were Daniel's wife Talena and their daughter Maja (5).

The meeting was a significant, emotional moment for the family, marked by relief and hope for a healthy future. Robin's father, Christoph, expressed deep feelings of gratitude and connection towards Daniel and his family following the meeting.

On that day, Robin found a match in Daniel Schäfer (32). The stem cell donation from Daniel helped Robin regain his health and today, he can live a normal life, participating in activities like playing, building Lego, and going to school.

Daniel encourages others to register with DKMS, as it doesn't hurt and can give someone else the chance of a healthy life with a small donation. The website for information on how to become a donor or recipient is www.dkms.de.

Currently, all potential bone marrow donors in Germany between 16 and 55 years old who are in good health can register. Registration is centralized through the Zentrale Knochenmarkspender-Register Deutschland (ZKRD), which merges data from 26 donor files including DKMS, Stefan-Morsch-Stiftung, and Aktion Knochenmarkspende Bayern (AKB). Potential recipients or family members can contact donors via organizations like the Deutsche Stiftung Organtransplantation (DSO) without receiving personal donor details.

The donation procedure resulted in a week of moderate back pain for Daniel Schäfer, similar to strong muscle soreness. He appeals for others to register as potential donors, hoping to give the same hope and joy he was able to give to Robin and his family.