By SALINA POST
A Salina teen with a rare form of blood cancer is in urgent need of a blood stem cell transplant.
Calvin Davis, 14, has been diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and is in urgent need of a blood stem cell transplant, according to DKMS, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating blood cancers.
Calvin is looking forward to being a normal fourteen-year-old again and enjoying regular activities with his parents and three siblings, but first he must find his perfect match.
A transplant will enable Calvin to return to classes at Salina South High School, as he’s currently studying online while he undergoes treatment, and continue doing the things he loves – playing basketball and soccer, running track and listening to music.
"It is hard to remain positive, but I keep thinking about my dog and how happy she'll be to see me when I get home," Calvin said.
According to DKMS, 70 percent of people suffering from blood-related illnesses must rely on donors outside of their families to save their life.
Here's how you can help
DKMS, in partnership with 99KG's Shane McClintock, is sponsoring a blood stem cell donor registration drive to help find a matching donor for Calvin.
The donor registration drive is scheduled for noon-6 p.m. Friday at the Eagle Radio studios, 1825 S. Ohio.
“Look... We're in a time crunch and will do whatever it takes to make it the absolute easiest for the most amount of people to see if they’re a match!” McClintock said.
Anyone in good health between ages 18-55 is encouraged to attend the registration drive. Persons attending will review medical eligibility, fill out registration forms, swab the insides of their cheeks, and then drop off their completed packets before leaving the drive, according to DKMS.