A plea for more bone marrow donors

Adrian

I had a SCT 6+ months ago, my sister was my donor. I concur with everything you have said. It is a fairly painless proceedure. One visit to the hospital for a medical, a battery of blood tests and then a morning hooked up to the separator. My sister was absolutely fine, mostly tired from a long morning in an unfamiliar place and thirsty from not drinking. If you need a wee.......it is a bed pan........it is a palaver to unhook and resterilise everything. But that aside, it is easy and oh so worthwhile. I don't think anyone really realises how relatively easy and important it is. I was actually on the Anthony Nolan list before I was diagnosed.

If I can help at all with any publicity or anything please don't hesitate to let me know. I know that donors from ethnic and religious minorities are always particularly sought after.

Susan

I'm so glad you posted this video. If my brother can donate, I think anybody can. He's a bit queasy.

I'm going to post this video on my blog tomorrow.

Hi Adrian

Excellent speech,well done-now it would be great if everyone that comments on this blog would seriously consider being a donor-think of all those people out there who are crying out for a chance of life.
It is such a relatively straight forward procedure as Adrian has outlined-please more donors are needed urgently.

Liz

PS Adrian

I think your first sentence said it all. We all owe it to you,Adrian, to support you in this way.

Liz

Hi Adrian

Duely noted and taken on board will be giving some serious thought to this. What a fantastic bunch of people you have managed to make contact with via your Blog I hope their love and support are helping you each day.

Jaq x

I have been on the bone marrow donor list for over 10 years, after getting the required bloods taken at one of my normal blood donor sessions. I am amazed that with the amount of people needing a bone marrow donation, that I have never been a near or perfect match. I'm guessing from this, that it is not easy to match people and the more there are on the register, the more chances there are that people would be matched.
I would be more than pleased to give up some bone marrow, as I have my blood for the last 30 years (excluding when pregnant).
I agree with Adrian, more people are needed.

I have lost count of how many times I have written and then deleted a response following the awful news of your relapse.Words simply cannot express how sad I am that it has come to this.You are the most extraordinarily persausive and compelling young man who will go on being an inspiration to others all over the world.
Following this most recent entry I will say that it will be my absolute pleasure to become a bone marrow donor,and I am only sorry that I have not done it before now.
My thoughts and very best wishes are with you.
Elaine, New York

I just want to suuport Adrian's request. To anyone who reads the blog, I want to say that going on the register is SO unbelievably easy. Adrian can testify I am the world's biggest wimp when it comes to needles - I have a serious phobia. But when Adrian needed his transplant I decided to join the register as it brought home just how important it was - if you're not on there and you're someone's only hope, how would they ever find you without such a register?
Given the needle fear, even sending the blood sample off could have been a hurdle for me. But when you know you are doing something for such a good cause it makes you look at the bigger picture. I told myself to stop being a pansy - what's a little fear or a needle when you could be giving someone a chance of life? Even if a bone marrow donation was a traumatic procedure - which it's not as Adrian has said - I personally would do it anyway if it meant giving someone fantastic like Sudders a glimmer of hope. My point is that if I can manage it, pretty much most people can. So please, please consider it.

PS. To Adrian - I promise to keep on the education and awareness drive mate, for good. x

If a needle went amiss, would the nurse say 'my fists have your blood on them' ?!!? :D

Shades, gimme a text or something, I've tried ringing you a few time but can't get hold of you, I dunno if you're on a new number or not?

I'd like to make a little visit if that's ok with you? I'll bring you some punts for your coin collection *titter*

Adrian

I (like so many others I'll bet) was devastated by your news yesterday. In a shitty selfish world, you have become so important as a beacon of what people can be like at their very best.

I heard your story through the Mail and as it is clearly really important to you to get the message out about bone marrow donations, have you contacted them again to update them on your illness?

I am and will be praying for you and your family, that you will have the best times together that could ever be possible and that somehow through all of this, you will know the 'Peace that passes understanding' You are clealy loved by so many people - what a legacy for someone to leave behind, in addition to what you are doing for folk needing transplants.

Please don't give up yet.

Love, hugs and prayers

Denise

i just wanted to say that AD is and always will be a true inspiration to me and the impact he has had on people's lives just through being himself is incredible. The nicest, most caring person i have ever had the pleasure of living with, playing football with and sharing my life with.

I speak with the big man (AD, not God) practically every day and it is always a conversation that i enjoy, even if the subject matter isn't always the most uplifting. AD has the most amazing way of dealing with this crap and he hs made it as painless as possible for everyone who has ever known him. The dignity he has kept with him throughout should be a lesson to everyone not to moan about stupid, insignificant things - put things in perspective.

I look forward to seeing you again this weekend mate and this time i promise not to bring a carrier bag full of Alka Seltzer.

You will help people forever because of your selfless campaigning, and for that you are a Saint.

Olie

Adrain,

I think what your doing is amazing. I lost my sister Ashley to a very aggressive form of breast cancer in January, she was 37. In the end she sliped away peacefully and quickly. It was the hardest thing I've had to do, watch her die, even harder than watching my mum fade away in a home from alzheimers. My Dad has had it tough.

I think about her everyday and when i read stories like this it makes me very sad. But what i want you to know from my experience your family and friends will always love you and think about you everyday! My memories will always be strong, i wont ever forget her and i see her in my two young neices everyday as well.

Keep the faith and tell people about your story, poeple need to be awakened to the fact we do need more bone marrow and blood donors, and that cancer can happen to anyone! We must all do our best to help.

Johnny

i'm on the register,
i actually look forward to the day i get a call,
when my bro was diagnosed i wasn't a suitable tissue type for him, and still feel i let him down,
but joining the anthony nolan register is helping me cope in the sense that i may save somebody else's life.
i too have set about trying to recruit more donors.
adrian you are such a star! i agree with Olie above infact you are a saint! reading your blog has helped me in some difficult times, and eased my understanding of what my bro went thru.
in fact lets all write to her maj and get this fella knighted!!!! xx

Off to give blood in a couple of hours - I think I put my name on the bone marrow register a couple of years back but I'm going to double check.

x

Hi Adrian

Everyone at Sheffield Hospitals Charitable Trust, and the communications team at the Teaching Hospitals, have been incredibly moved and saddened by your recent posts. And of course your latest devastating news. I wanted to say, on behalf of everyone I work with that we are thinking of you and your family, and that you are an inspiration (an over-used phrase but in this case I think entirely suitable).

On a personal level, I wanted to make you a promise, that I will definitely be signing up to be a bone marrow donor, and encouraging others to do so.

Emma
x

Hi adrian, i read your touching story in the daily mail today and i just wanted to say its an eye opener for everyone! my dad is 50 and currently battling with cancer and was told on my birthday that it was terminal! i think you are a very strong person and its sad that people like yourself and my dad are have life threatening illnesses! would love to hear from you! will look into bone marrow donars..take care

Jo

Adrian after following this blog for the last six months i cant believe how everything has changed, your so strong.

I now promise you I will become a donor.

regards - neil

Hi Adrian,

Just heard you on Five Live and your courage and down-to-earthness in the face of this dreadful news just blew me away.
I've often considered registering for the donor register. After hearing you speak, I'm going to do it right now.
My very best wishes to you and your family.

Jill

Here you go buddy - here are a few texts that have come in since your interview - what an amazing interview.

You are an absolute bastard though as you have set me off at my desk again and now i can't see what i'm typing - love for always,

Olie x

Victoria how did you speak to adrian without crying. James.

Wow ! Wow. I don't have the words to say how I feel listening to the young man.

Please ask everyone who was going to buy Cherie Blairs book to donate the money to leukaemia research. Darren in Brighton

Sitting here in tears - how humbling! Puts all into perspective. Nicky

I am 16 and cannot yet donate blood or bone marrow. I had already planned to donate blood but bone marrow had never occured to me. Now i will and i hopeothers do to! Hannah

I recently fractured my heel and thought it was a major problem for me put your last guest has put this into perpective. Hero is a word used too frequent ly but 'Baldy' is one. Simon Ossett.

Victoria. How can a dying man be so unselfish and caring. Ben. B'ham

I want to give this guy a huge hug words cant describe how moving listening. Respect

There would be more bone marrow donors if there wasn't a ludicrous upper age limit on donation!! Spencer in cambridge

When you listen to that young man you now know now that there is no god

I am in fuckin tears of admiration for this wonderful example of selflessness

This, I will do, for you...

Hi Adrian

I just heard your interview on Five Live, and wanted to let you know that I'm signing up to a donor register right now. Your attitude and strength are incredible. You have my thoughts and best wishes.

Robin

Hi Adrian

I've just listened to you on Radio 5. I have heard you on Radio 5 previously and I was so sad to hear your most recent news.

I dare say there's very little new that anyone can say in such circumstances. Although, my admiration for your spirit I cannot put into words and your idea to simply 'enjoy' your remaining time is excellent. 2 fingers to the disease and if you're going down, you're going down smiling, eating, drinking and sky-diving!

Good luck with your chat with Poppy. Also very sad news to hear that you had split up, although it's not for us to judge that situation.

I myself have had a period of severe illness about 10 years ago, although it wasn't a cancer or leukaemia illness, more related to the immune system, but I do deal with it every day of my life and only those close to me know this. I was married last year to my wife Lucie, she's amazing. She suffers from a serious spinal condition that needs another operation to cure, in the meantime she's heavily medicated, but she still holds down her job as a teacher and I have such admiration for her. The morphine she takes has caused a heart problem which needs a procedure next week to rectify and I know she's terrified of this, but I also know she'll be ok. Her mum died from a rare kidney cancer about 7 years ago. I didn't met her, although I feel I know her from all the amazing stories Lucie has told me. That's because the truly special people in this world are never forgotten even after they leave us and I know this will be the case with you. What an inspiration to everyone. In a world where we have all our priorities out of whack, you're one of those special shining lights.

And here's me thinking Carlisle United losing to that bl**dy Leeds United last night in the league 1 play-offs was the end of the world! Nevermind, automatic promotion next season!

Wishing you all the very best and hoping you do manage to enjoy the following weeks as much as you can.

Nigel & Lucie in Belfast & Carlisle

Hi Adrian,
Just wanted to let you know that I will be thinking of you and your family at this sad time. My daughter Stephanie was diagnosed with Leukaemia at 4 months old. She had three rounds of chemo and a bone marrow transplant but unfortunately she relapsed and died when she was 9. She was very brave as I am sure you will be. We tried to make the most of the time she had left before she died. Enjoy what you have left and dont worry about your mum and dad, I am sure they will be very proud of you as I was and they will get through it remembering the good things about you and all that you have done. I have been on the register for 15 years and hope many more people will follow after your story. Be strong
Adrian.
Jan

Dear Adrian
I have been on the register for 20 years and have been called up three times but never been a close enough match. I can never understand why more people do not join, after all what better thing could a person ever do than potentially save anothers life?
Your honesty, courage and bravery throughout your battle has been truly inspirational, you do not deserve the outcome you are facing,I really hope that you are able to enjoy your remaining time with your friends and loved ones, my very best wishes and thoughts are with you.
Dawn

Hi Adrian,
I lost my Grandad to leukaemia nearly 10 years ago..
I am doing a course in web design at the moment.. if those skills can be any use in your campaign.. or there is anything I can do to help in your campaign to raise awareness, I would love to do it both in memory of my Grandad and because I have been so touched and inspired by your blog.
I had never considered being a bone marrow donor before.. my Grandad never got the chance to have one and it was never mentioned as a treatment for him.. but I will now, I promise you :)
Love,
Laura
X

Hi Adrian

Thats my sample kit on the way and thanks to your blog and respect for you I have got another 29 folk regestering for the kit - not that I will end there cos everyone I know will be getting told to get there arse in gear and get the kit and get registered! I have not stopped thinking about you in the last 24hrs or telling your story to everyone I have seen today so I can assure you that thanks to you the register WILL grow. I hope and pray that one day I will get a call to say I can be a doner and I will tell them when ever that happens that its thanks to you!

Keep strong and I hope your having a ball!!

Cheers

Derek

In Canada you can donate through Canadian Blood services http://www.blood.ca/CentreApps/Internet/UW_V502_MainEngine.nsf/page/onematch?OpenDocument&CloseMenu

It's free, and there are just too damned many people dying from lack of donors.

Hi Adrian,
Yesterday, I was at a friend's funeral. He'd died suddenly and without any warning whatsoever; it was a complete bolt from the blue.
At times like that we're all reminded that it will be our turn sometime but most of us don't allow ourselves to think about it. I heard you and admire you and I hope you will fulfill dreams and enjoy the love of family and friends to the full.
I do want to pass on something for you to think about in your quiet times. Check out Romans Ch 3 verses 20 - 26 (In the Authorised Version of the Bible - the one with 'Thee' and 'Thou'.) I don't want to offend you, God bless you.
All the best Adrian,
Bill.

Inspiration,that is the first word that springs to mind!
I give blood and about 4 years ago asked if i could give for the bone marrow register. The response from the nurse involved amazed me. She saw it as an extra chore to her already busy day!!!! Beggars belief i know but those who should know better need to be prepared too.
Good luck and i hope at the very least you succeed in following Germany's lead and educate from an early age how easy it can be to register.

Hi Adrian
Just found your site and realised you're a fellow Sheffield-er! Dare I ask - Super Owls or Blades?? Been reading your blogs and have to say what an inspiration you are! I've been on the marrow donor list for about 10 years but never been asked to donate. I agree with you and all the postings on here - everyone should be inspired by your story enough to want to go and do something good for general human-kind and get themselves on the register. I imagine already you've made a difference to this. Be proud of what you have achieved. What an amazing, fun sounding set of mates and family you have (and a GREAT gran!!). Be strong matey - thinking of you. Clare x

i really hope you get better soon

Hi, I was driving in my car today when I heard you on the radio. I thought to myself this is a good man. And I thought to myself, has this man found any answers to what awaits him when he dies?

Now I am sure you have, but I have a question I ask, with the utmost sincerity and respect, have you thought about a question that God has put forward in the Quran, i.e. 'did you create yourself or were you yourself created?

I am not sure if you have ever looked at Islam? But what I would say is, if its even just to rule it out, give it a go. You maybe surprised. In the Quran, God, makes clear what is the purpose of life, and provides evidence why one should believe the Quran is the final revelation to mankind. (Listen: http://english.islamway.com/bindex.php?section=scholarlessons&scholar_id=7)

I send you this message as I think you're a great guy and it would be great if you could leave this world in a way that ensures you enter paradise, and able to testify that you fulfilled the purpose of life, as God has made clear what this is;

“And I (God) created not the spirit-kind and mankind, except they should worship Me (Alone).� (Quran, Chapter 51, Verse 56)

Consider your mission well on it's way, you have brought the subject of bone marrow donation to the front of everyone's mind and if like me they have all checked out the websites and taken the next step to become a donor then your mission is a successful one.....

Nickix

Your wonderful blogs have been helping me understand what a friend is going through. He has refractory AML and, unlike you, finds it difficult to open up - typical male! I have come to rely on you to tell me how he's really feeling.
But the purpose of this email is to put in a word for cord blood storage. Cord blood transplants are increasingly being used when there is no bone marrow donor available, but so few new mums seem to know they have the chance to save a life at the same time as giving birth.
Stem cells derived from the umbilical cord - which is normally thrown away after delivery of the baby - can be used to treat leukemias and other blood malignancies. All the mother has to do is donate the cord to the NHS cord blood bank. Log on to www.cord.blood.co.uk to find out more.
Thinking of you with gratitude and admiration - oh, and you're a dream of a writer.

Mate just seen you on TV tonight, my hart goes out to yer, i will deff go for tests to see if i can donate. Just be happy now buddy !!!

Hi again...

I shall help all I can to spread the word!!! Recently have signed up to give blood due to sister and her AML, so I shall go do this too!! I actually thought it was more of a scary procedure...so you have already won this lady over!! I shall post link on my myspace to spread the word
Well done Adrian...Keep smiling
Love Jo
xxx

Hi Adrian
I mentioned before that my daughter, Natalie is at Nottingham Uni. I just thought I would let you know that they had people there this term promoting bone marrow donation (don't know if it was Anthony Nolan) but loads of her friends signed up knowing about her brother being ill. With you mentioning about what they do in Germany, maybe somebody has already caught on to the idea of promoting it at Uni level?
Your'e doing a great job already!

Sally

Hi Adrian,
I'm not really sure what to say or whether I can into words how courageous and amazing I think you are. After seeing your latest blog I can honestly say that you have inspired me. Both to join the bone marrow register (which I am now in the process of doing) and encourage others to do the same (I've since emailed everyone I know) as well as become a better person in life.

I know it probably doesn't mean much, but you really have touched my life.

I'll be thinking of you. xx

hi adrian having heard you on the radio today you sound just like my sister in law deb she to has cancer with just a short time to live but it does not stop her enjoying life has much as she can, never stops laughing, lately she had to sort out her own funeral has her husband up and left her and her 3 kids, seems she and you have come to terms with death as you say with inner peace she has her mother with not long to live with cancer too . like you and your family we will be giving as much time and fun to Deb her mom as we can one thing we wont forget about deb is her infectious laugh which can be herd miles away ,we will miss deb and her mom but will always remember the great times we had hope you get to final Alan@sue

Hang in there brave boy!
We will all join you and what a party eh?
I admire your'e no fear aproach and that is the best way to be.
Live your time to the best you can,enjoy things you like till you decide your'e happy enough.Go to sleep when your'e too tired.
It's not the end of the world!
The end of a life in this world maybe?
The beginning of a new life beyond our knowledge?
Vicars,priests,scientists, none of them are sure of anything!
Only thing for sure is the fact the human mind cannot comprehend space and it's beginning or end?
Must be something we don't understand even with our computers and things.
I do understand what you are feeling though and have to comment 'lifes a bitch'
Enjoy every day you can!!!
See you later........ X Mik in darlington

Adrian,
I have just seen the article in the Mirror and discovered your blog!
I think your attitude, spirit and honesty is incredible!!
Ill be encouraging everyone I know to join the register and to read your blog!!

Enjoy everyday and take care!!

xxxx

Hi Adrian
This is my first ever blog entry. I have been reading your blog since it began, after reading about you in the Examiner. I was so sad to read your two most recent entries and the comments in reply have left me in tears. Your bravery is so inspiring! I'm not able for medical and age reasons to become a donor, but I have forwarded the link to your blog to everyone I know, to try encourage them to become donors.
Now go and make the most of your life with your family and friends.
Hugs and kisses!
Sylvia xxx

ive just been sat here reading these blogs after seein u on calendar!!!
i must admit ive never given blood or done the bone marrow thing, but at this moment afer reading all this i am considering doing it.
i just wanted 2say that i think ur incredible and a real inspiration 2every1. I work at a hospital and i see on a daily basis lives torn apart by diseases and illnesses that the children suffer from (kids ward) yet reading this blog has made me realise that i cud help sum1, by donating. A life could be saved if i was brave enuf 2take my a*se out there and donate, my fear of needles doesnt compare at all to the pain and suffering of ppl all over the world. so i would just like 2take this chance 2 say thank u for giving me the well needed kick up the backside!! i wish u the very best in all that u do, just by reading this blog u have in a way changed my life and hopefully sum1 elses. Thank you xxx

I have read your story in newspapers about 10 minutes ago and I have to say that it deeply touched me. I just had to log on read your blog. Even though you have so many messages of support I just had to write one too.

What you have done is just great - you dedicated your time and energy to make people understand how much person can suffer through cancer treatment and what to do to help. I know you probably cannot answer everyone personally but I want you to know my thoughts and prayers are with you. I want to say how much I feel for you but words just fail me.

Love

Lenka, London

Hi Adrian, I'm so sorry to hear your recent news. However due to reading about you and your fight with leukemia this has prompted me to enquire about becoming a Bone Marrow Donor. I'm not sure whether I can help due to being diagnosed with hypothyroidism but have still put my name forward in the hope that I can still help to save someone's life.

Thank you so much for putting my mind at ease about the bone marrow donation procedure. I have to admit that I'm not too hot with needles but have had to get used to regular blood tests and was one of the people who thought donating bone marrow would hurt a lot.

I wish you all the best and hope that your message gets through to more people like me.

Luan x

Adrain

The news is a bummer.

I have been on the list since it was started but never been called. (early 70s) I think I am too old to be called now.

Small service is true service while it lasts;
Of friends, however humble,scorn not one:
The daisy, by the shadow that it casts,
Protects the lingering dew-drop from the sun

William Wordsworth..written to a child in a book he gave her.

If only we could all live by those tender words.

When told that his estranged wife wouldnt be in court,due to a medical procedure he muttered * another pedicure* hahahahah

An American in London was bursting for a pee and found a narrow lane. Just as he was about to perform a policeman tapped him on the shoulder and said Sir you can't do that here come with me.......and led him to a very smart garden. The Yank asked if his kindness was called english hospitality .......NO ITS THE FRENCH Embassy. tee hee

oh well, all I can say is enjoy what you have left of this bitch of a life.

Hi Adrian the brave
When I heard you yesterday I was struck by how similiar you are to my nephew who sadly died of Leukaemia in November 2006 aged 16 years old http://lemonjelly.moonfruit.com/. He urged us all to do good to help others in his situation and did all he could to protect us from the misery of his illness. We are still inspired by his spirit and love of life. I ran the London Marathon in his honour this year(never having run in my life however I trained for 16 months) my family and loads of his friends have taken part in fundraising events and still do. He received a bone marrow transplant at Bristol which failed partly because they were not able to find a perfect match. When I heard you yesterday I have now decided to contact Anthony Nolan and arrange for a clinic in Berkshire as I am sure I can persuade many people to sign up to the register. Sending you much love and admiration Alisonx

Hi Adrian, I heard your piece with Victoria Darbyshire yesterday morning. You made me feel so ashamed that at half my age you are already creating a bigger impact in your life than I have ever made the effort to do in mine. Go for everything you can in the time you have left - I shall be thinking of you every day and hope you feel mine and thousands of others' quiet support.

I will register as a bone marrow donor today online if I can; otherwise on Monday.

All love,

Tony and family

My appointment is on Monday so will let you know how it goes. Just to let cheer you up a little a joke. Got to have time for some fun huh!

In a crowded city at a crowded bus stop, a beautiful blonde was waiting for the bus. She was decked out in a tight leather mini skirt with matching tight leather boots and jacket. As the bus rolled up and it became her turn to get on, she became aware that her skirt was too tight to allow her leg to come up to the height of the first step on the bus.

Slightly embarrassed and with a quick smile to the bus driver she reached behind her and unzipped her skirt a little thinking that this would give her enough slack to raise her leg. Again, she tried to make the step onto the bus only to discover she still couldn't. So, a little more embarrassed she once again reached behind her and unzipped her skirt a little more and for a second time attempted the step and once again, much to her chagrin she could not raise her leg because of the tight skirt. So, with a coy little smile to the driver she again unzipped the offending skirt to give a little more slack and again was unable to make the step.

About this time the big Texan that was behind her in the line picked her up easily from the waist and placed her lightly on the step of the bus. Well, she went ballistic and turned on the would-be hero screeching at him, "How dare you touch my body!! I don't even know who you are!"

At this the Texan drawled, "Well, ma'am, normally I would agree with you but after you unzipped my fly three times, I kinda figured that we was friends."

Hi Adrian

I lisened to you on radio the other day, i was driving and had to pull over, you touched my heart, you are a credit to your family,friends and everyone who is going through what you are going through.

I have along with my partner decided to go for bone marrow donation in the hope it may help someone one day. Thank you for opening our eyes to this.

Now go and have some fun with all who care for you, you will always be in our thoughts

Nigel,Elaine,Sadie,Faith,Joseph & Reece

Dear Adrian you have nothing to loose, please check Health Protocol or The Beck Protocol by Robert C.Beck, D.Sc!!!!! You must!!!! Also you can watch this to make up your mind:http://www.atomicmovies.com/movie-Dr-Robert-C-Beck--The-cure-for-aids-and-cancer.html

Hi Adrian.

Id just like to say what an inspiration you are to me, my friends and my family.

I will seriously be looking into donating bone marrow in the near future, it's the least i could do.

Just remember - because of you many people from this blog will take bone marrow donations more seriously and even donate it themselves. You've made a difference to countless lives, and in that respect Baldy's Blog is a huge success.

Cheers mate.

Hi Adrian, this is my first ever blog and it is really just for you. I would like to give you some encouragement and hope. There is a healing outpouring occuring in Lakeland, Florida, USA. It started on 2nd April and is still goung on. People are being healed from all over the world from 'incurable diseases'. God is bigger that anything, nothing is impossible with God. Why don't you have a look and see for yourself. Check out www.freshfire.ca or www.ignitedchurch.com or www.god.tv or if you have sky tv :channel 760 at 7-11pm tonight (Saturday)or next week Mon to Fri: times vary from 7-11pm or 7.30-11.30pm.
I am praying for you.

Hey...
Your website IS the bright spot of inspiration and hope.

I have an idea. We are having a bone marrow drive here in Houston at the beginning of June. How about you put on a mask and gloves and hop a flight over. It will make for a great story and lots of fun.

I have CML too. I'm on Dasatinib and minus a pesky deletion in my DNA it's working well for the moment. I don't have a donor match, so... you can tell this is an important issue for me too.

Please check out the 'www.badtothebonemarrowride.com' (I think that's it) and try to make it. I'll sort out a place for you to stay and we can cart you around to see the sights of Texas (NASA, etc. etc. etc.)

The whole relationship difficulty for those of us who are single and leukemic... SUCKS! But, at least we have each other right?

Come on, be an ambassador, we will get you on the news in the fourth largest city in AMERICA!!! And, perhaps we can squeeze you into an appointment at MD Anderson too. Who knows, they may have a cocktail that will bounce that funky DNA back in shape. It's a crazy idea, but what the heck. Bring a family member too if you want. We need someone to take our photos as we are silly on TV!!!

Hope you have a good laugh and I really hope you think about this adventure of a lifetime.

Lots of love and hugs,
Rhonda

I saw you on Calendar again, last night, Adrian and I was so sorry to hear your latest news. I have looked into being a bone marrow donor but, unfortunately, I am far too old! You are such a brave young man and my thoughts are with you as well as all my respect.
Good luck.
Barbara

Hello Adrian
We have had much experience of illness in our family but no-one can have any real idea of how anyone else is feeling. I am a nurse and worked nights for many years. I often felt I could hear the patients' minds racing in the middle of the night. I would go and talk with them. It was heart-wrenching.
I wish I had a magic wand to wave over you. Please do not feel alone with your illness, we are all with you.

Sue xx

AD,

It was fantastic seeing you in Liverpool (albeit briefly). You walked past our table as I was telling Big Dave about your blog. Coincidence or what?

Just wanted to let you know that the Wrexham clan are all thinking of you and sending you much love.

Michelle
xxx

You are in my thoughts Adrian,
love and hugs Jean xxx

Do you have an email address i can mail you at?
mark

Have read and read your blogs. You are a total inspiration to all and so courageous. If the donor register accepts 50 year olds then I will definately apply. Will relay your message to all I know. Love SAJ x

Dear Adrian

I've read your blog in the Daily Mirror on Friday and had to keep fighting back tears cause I was at work. I felt as if I could hold Leukaemia and all the other diseases in the world and beat them to dust and I would let you beat them too for what they has done to you and your family.
My dear, I hope this letter will not leave you upset, and if so, I'm very sorry to have upset you. Adrian, you have been hearing all these reports form your doctors about what these diseases are doing to your body but today I want to tell you something different. I'm not saying that what the doctors are saying about how long you have to live is wrong but what I'm saying is that the bible says in St. Matthew 19 v 29 “But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.� King James Version. That includes you as well. I believe with God you can see not only your children but also your grand children grow up.

The bible says in Jeremiah 29v11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.� KJV. My son, ask God to forgive you of all your sins and to heal you completely from every disease in your body. In Jeremiah 33 v 3 “ Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.� KJV.

Find a King James Version or New King James Version bible and read what the good LORD is saying about you and the plans and purposes he has for your life.

Adrian, if you allow me to write again I will send you more scriptures to show you that there is hope in God the Father for you. I'm praying for you to live.

God bless you
K

I'm sigining up to donate now.

Thank you for for all that you have written, you are truly inspirational.

As many people have already said - your legacy will live on as I for one know I will not forget all that I have read.

My thoughts are with you and your family

Claire xo

Dear Adrian,

When i saw your blog in the daily mirror newspaper and i said to myself that you are a brave and inspirational person. But reading through i saw that you have given up on everything including life, i would like to tell you not to give up on life because God hasn't given up on you.
you should keep praying and ask god to come into your life and take away this disease from body.

If you are interesting i will leave you this option to give my church a call for you to put in a prayer request and my church sisters and brothers will join you in prayer.

name of church: Gilbert deya ministries
Tel: 02073580303
email: gilbert@deyaministries.com

we are praying for you.

GOD IS LOVE!

GOD Bless You Adrian.

clo

Dear Adrian,
I've written and re written this post 3 times now...trust me I'm not the sort of person who's normally lost for words! ;-)
I heard you on five live the other day and will do the following...
I'll get on the list if (I can) to donate, I'll blog about donating and how much easier it is than I thought it was, and I'll definately tell people that I meet and know about you and your blog...you really are a special star of a bloke.

Here's to a great time - no matter how long it turns out to be for you. Enjoy every second!
Freya
x

Hi Adrian
You are truely an insperation to us all. you have been through so much yet you still have the possitive attitude and the drive to help other people.We are selfish We worry about things like money and the way we look, yet it seems to take us seeing someone going through as much as you are to realise that there are more important things in life that we take for granted each day.
I will look into donating bone marrow i am already a blood donor. Adrian If there is anything i can do i would certainly try for you.Please do not hesitate to contact me.Best Wishes, thinking of you Sarah xxx

Adrian

The test of a good looking man is if he is still good looking when he has lost his hair. Passed :-)

Miracles happen every day.
I really get the feeling that you won't be going anywhere for quite a long while yet, you have far too much to do for a start and too many people willing you on.

take care, have fun, be focused.

Love ya

Jane x

Hiya Adrian,

I've just seen a report on Five News....I am so choked for you!!! I am inspired by your bravery...and your focus on getting your plea heard is fantastic.

I live in Spain & am in the process of finding out whether or not I can be a donor easily from here.

I will be sure to fordward your Blog to all my friends as I know it will touch them deeply, as it has myself!

Anyway, just to let you know...your plea hasn't landed on deaf ears - and by the look of all the fantastic posts ...it has made a HUGE difference.

Thinking of you sweetpea...you're lush !!

Mich xx

Hi Adrian
just a note to say you have touched my heart with diary/blog and im currently looking in the donour register for blood and bone marrow as you said its a small price to pay for saving someones life
my the angels be with you
my friend
lisa x

Adrian,
Just saw a report about you on the local news and hunted down your blog.

Totally agree with your post about donating marrow.

I got myself put on the Anthony Nolan register years ago after my son relapsed with ALL.

We're now 4 days away from his bone marrow transplant after his second relapse and so going through conditioning at the BMT unit at Bristol Children's Hospital.

Without the various people throughout the world who have put themselves on the donor registers, our son's donor is American, lots of the people both young and old wouldn't have the chance they do have.

I hope that things work out for you and I'll keep coming back to your blog to see how your doing.

Hi Adrian,

My name is Gill, I work for a company called Biotivia Longevity Bioceuticals www.Biotivia.com

After watching you News interview, I would like to forward the below letter we received from one of our customers.

I would like to send you a free Bottle of Transmax. Transmax is a completley natural product, we cannot guarantee you will have the same results, but your story is very similar to some of our customers.

Adrian, please send me an address where I can send you Transmax. This address will be in the strictest of confidence.

Take care Adrian, Gill

Here is the testimony:-

My story starts in early November 2005. During an abdominal echographic exam aiming to determine the health status of the liver, a kidney cancer was detected. Then a multitude of tests like CT scan, PET scan, Scintiscan, electrocardiograms were conducted. The verdict was a kidney cancer with metastases in the lungs. The prognostic was of 2 years at the most. And that was without taking my heart condition into account! I had an infarcts in June 2003 plus the aortic valve which is impaired.

Finally in March 2006 the right kidney is removed. Then in July 2006 I undergo thoracic surgery to removed the biggest metastases. I'm left with a "multitude of small nodules", these are the words used in the radiology report. In September 2006 I begin a chemotherapy. The new drug taken orally brigs a lost of hair, skin rashes, diarrhea and hypertension. By June 2007 I must be hospitalized and a Stent is place in the right coronary artery. In July I receive a new drug. I must thank the drug manufacturer who covered the $800/month that my insurance did not covered. The secondary effects are less severe than the previous drug but my heart is seriously affected. By November 2007 I can't climb more than 5 steps without having to vaporize nitro under the thong. At this point I believe that my 2 years are up and it's time to say "au revoir" . On December 27 2007 I'm hospitalized with cardiac deficiency, pulmonary edema, edema of the extremities, epistaxis (nose bleed) and anemia. This time I truly believe that my number is up.

Back in November, I read a book written by a fiend and former colleague, Dr. Richard Béliveau. The tittle in French is: Les aliments contre le cancer.(Food Against Cancer). With the inconveniences of winter storm plus the Holiday season I received my first shipment of resveratrol (Transmax) by the end of December. I immediately started taking 500 mg 4 times a day but kept on taking the prescribed drug. Further more, I also take 10 ml of a mixture composed of curcuma, crushed black pepper and linseed oil.

Within 3 weeks a miracle took place. Is it the prayers (I'm a scientist but also a believer), the Transmax, the curcuma or the prescribed drug? I will never know for sure but You will not catch me without Transmax. In March I participated in a badminton tournament, in April I led a dog slay. I have activities that were left aside for more than 2 years. My girl friend (11 years younger than I) will not allow me to go without Transmax. She is also taking Transmax because she wants to look as young as I (67 y.o).

The most important news came on April 29, 2008. The scan taken on April first 2008 shows that there are only 2 nodules remaining. They are described as follow:1- small non specific micro-nodule of 3 millimeters; 2- small thickening of 1.3 X 0.4 mm on the bottom left.

I pray for all of you afflicted by disease. Heaven helps those that help themselves.

Hi Adrian,
Kev from the Liverpool Echo here.
Desperately sorry to read about the relapse, even if it was conveyed with your customary grit and good humour.
Was really glad to catch up with you at the TM awards the other month - and to find that backstreet bar for the post match analysis.
I joined the register last year, and will be urging as many people as possible to do so.
Here's hoping you continue to ignore last orders.
Yours, Kev

Adrian
As someone who works for a blood cancer charity- Leukaemia CARE I was saddened to hear your news - that your battle is about to come to an end. So sorry. If we can be of any help to you or your family please do call our 24 hour free phone careline - there is always someone there 24/7 if you want to talk. 0800 1696680
I have ever admiration for you -
Lauren x

Saddened by your news, admired by your bravery.
God bless you Adrian.
Angela

Many of my closest friends and family have been affected by cancers in the last year. It is amazing how many people it affects and how people react so differently. I hope you manage to inspire more people to join the registar as i have and for people to do more to raise awarness and funds for a disease that affects everyone. x

hey man , i hope you get ur health back. we are all going to die , and everybody has his time. by the way i would suggest and push you to convert to Islam before you die. you may disagree with me , but it is the best advice i can give you now. because you were not a Muslim before if you convert now you will go straight to heaven. i am telling you this not to confuse you or preach you or ....but i really was touched by your story and i thought the least i can do is to tell you this. if you convert to Islam and i am right then you will go to Paradise ...if i am not right then there is no after life. i hope you will take my advice and by the way nobody can tell you when you are going to die that is up to Allah( god). you have to also take into account nobody is given what he cannot handle. that means the Leukemia was given to you because you are strong . cheers mate ...may u get ur health back soon...

HI Adrian

I heard your story on 5 News and wanted to share this information with. I'm a Christian and have witnessed physical healings & miracles from God. God is doing many healing miracles of late in LAKELAND, Florida, a church headed up by Todd Bentley (he was fond of tattoos!). Here is their web address so you can take a closer look and read some of the testimonies (people completely healed of cancer, deaf hearing, people in wheelchairs healed etc.). If you wanna give God a shot, it would be worth going out there and getting touched by God's powerful presence.

http://www.freshfire.ca

Another church, hot with God's presence, but abit closer to home, is in Dudley: http://www.revivalfires.org.uk/

Kind Regards
Elaine

Hey, Just seen you on the news. It's great what your doing, Just a shame there is'nt more people like yourself.

My main aim of posting was to ask...How do I go about being a Doner?

Adrian. I have just watched the report on five news. I felt compelled to check out your blog, and having read this I felt I had to say that I can help in a teeny weeny way. I work in a school and teach kids extra curricular drama. I have the opportunity to cover sensitive subjects,and i could and would like to make this include bone marrow transplants/donors. After reading your blog I think that you are right that people should be educated in school about the importance of this. I know it's not much, but you have inspired me. Thank you.

Hi AD,
I feel very ashamed that I have not been on your wonderful site before today and that it took me seeing you on channel 5 news to get my butt into gear. Phil has kept me up to date with your highs and lows but in hindsight (apparently a wonderful thing!)I should have contacted you myself a long time ago. You are an inspiration, that's the only way to put it. I admire your unbelievable honesty and bravery and I hope that your campaign is successful.
I will forever remember you being hoisted up to "The one and only" in Time Tunnel!!
Bless you mate you truly are one in a million

Hels xx

Hi Adrian

I will definatly sign up for bone marrow after reading your blog! The 1985 discription of giving bone marrow by removing a chunk of your spinal cord always put me off a tiny bit (no idea why??)

Anyway your such a cool, good looking guy and how infectious is your smile!!

In the words of mitch (baywatch series 1) "To get the answer you have to forget the question.."

Sending you a wink and a smile :) x

Hi Adrian - I am a homeopath and feel really concerned. I am known for 'standing out on a limb' and doing radical things so pleased do not feel surprised or offended by this mail. Why am I mailing you? - I feel extremely passionate about homeopathy and I am totally dedicated to healing. I am offering to help you at no cost, which is something I often do for others. Please feel free to email me then I can give you my home phone number.

Kindest wishes - John

Hi again, Adrian - Having given the matter further consideration I ask that you do not place my mail for public viewing at this moment. There are too many people who are prepared too ridicule this most honourable and beautiful system of medicine.

John

Hi Adrian

I saw you on Channel5 a couple of minutes ago and I really wish i'd known about you a long time ago.

You looked happy and that's really great but I need you to listen carefully, YOU DONT HAVE TO DIE!!. I believe in miracles and i believe very strongly that you will have one. I'm a christian and I know the power and Love of God can do anything.

I'm sending this message to you because i'm most compelled to do this.

Can I please have a postal address so I can send you some Christian messages to listen to.

Don't give up, STOP preparing to die, God has a better purpose for your life than for it to end this way!

DON'T GIVE UP.

Medical science may not be able to help out on this but believe me, God is ABLE.

You can send a reply to my email address.

Nicole

I have only just connected, Adrian - I can give you my number privately in this mail.

It is now 7.50 - within 10 minutes I will be at 01782 415977. My home number is 01782 846980 you can try that late at night or early mornings.

Sorry if I seem a bother - John

Seen you on tv today and im really glad to find your blog. You will get told all the time that your brave! Your prob sick of hearing it but what else can i say. I think your amazing.

Your blog is fantastic, im going to start reading from the beginning. Hope your having a good day xx

Adrian what more can we say!!! you have been so brave and still are thinking of helping others when you have decided enough is enough.

Myself and little Sophie Edwards and all our family and friend will be behind the campaign 110%. Many people have no understanding of what leukemia is until it actually effects them or another family member/friend and what the treatment entails the constant battle with chemo and infections.

If people were aware of all this and how simple been a donor is im sure people would be more willing to go onto the register.

your in our hearts!!!!! sophie says your real brave.

Hi Adrian, i remember having read your very moving story in the Mail a few months ago, and was inspired by your honesty and courage at this unpredictable time. My own Mum had breast cancer which had unfortunately spread to her lymph nodes and a brain tumour in the last 24 mths it was a frightening time as someone that has been through it will only understand. Still here defying the odds though thank god!

Having researched many books, alternative treatments etc in the last 2 years, i just wanted to share with you one astounding maybe to be a future miracle cure/alternative treament, call it what you may but there has been years of clinical trials on this in the U.S with phenomenal results.

A sprecific Tahitian Noni Juice is renouned for it's extraordinary healing properties that many people have never even heard of.

A quick synopsis for you, i warn you i have a tendancy to rabbit on about this subconciously, i am a bit passionate about this finding!

Noni stimulates the production of T-cells in the immune system.
Noni enhances the immune system involving macrophages and lymphocytes.
Noni combats many types of bacteria.
Noni has UNIQUE anti-pain effects
( the University of Metz in France they learned Noni is 75% as effective as morphine in relieving most pain!)
Noni also inhibits precancer function and the growth of cancer tumours by allowing abnormal cells to function more normally.

I am not saying it is a miracle cure by any means but it really is worth investigating.
N.B make sure it is the authentic Noni from the Tahitian Noni International range you look into as there is thousands of copycat Noni's with very below par ingredients.

Wishing you the best of luck with everything.
Where there is life, there is hope i believe!!

Kindest Regards,
Bridget.

My dear Adrian,
I've just seen your interview on TV. I was concentrated on my computer but in the moment you started talking about your life with your soft voice and so much wisdom... I simply could not take my eyes off you. You are a handsome man and the greatness of your soul and heart reminds me of a Greek hero, the kind that we just see in fiction and not in real life.

You are giving your life such powerful meaning and your message will remain forever. You wanted to be one of those cases where you could show people that they can beat a disease... YOU ARE DOING MUCH MORE THAN THAT. You are showing the world what life is all about and how high can a soul rise to... You are a lesson of unlimited strengh, courage, kindness, wisdom... love.

My heart is crushed... how can this be?! S***!!! We simply have absolutely no idea how difficult, how enormously difficult it must have been for you. And yet you are here, sharing with us, fighting to make a difference. You could have taken a different path... but you've choosen the tuffest and most noble of all.

I hope you do realise how very special you are. This world won't see another Adrian.

Take our love and prayers and be in peace. Enjoy the love of your friends and your family... they are lucky to have you.

I'll be here everyday... and you'll be in my heart forever.

-x-
Chris

Hey Adrian,

I have just read your blog from beginning to end and feel incredibly sad but also incredibly inspired.

You are absolutely gorgeous and have a smile that will stay in my mind for a long time!

I don't know how you are coping with all this shite that has been put on you but I find you truly amazing!!

You have touched so many lives with your blog that you should be nothing but proud of the time and effort you have given it.

I so hope that you get a miracle...you sure as hell deserve one!!!

Big big fat squeezy hugs.

All my love and good feelings,

Fi

P.S. Because of you, I am just filling in the forms to put myself on the donor list....this is all down to you and be sure I am not the only one you are responible for! ;O)

Im back again... still plodding along with the blog. Do you have a myspace page or a way of contacting you? I have so many questions.. dont wanna be a pest though lol x

Hello Adrian,
We have been moved by what we have seen and heard on 5 news regarding your situation and what you are going through.We Believe there is hope and that God can touch you with His healing power.We have prayed for you this evening as a family and will continue to do so, believing that God will intervene and turn your situation round. The bible says in Jeremiah Chaper 29 verse 11-12; 'For I know the plans, I have for you, "declares the Lord," plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.'

God Bless you!

Hi Adrian,

I saw your piece on Channel 5 news and just wanted to say thank you for raising awareness at such a difficult time for you. My 18 year old cousin is going through exactly the same as you at the moment - she was told on Friday that there was nothing more they could do and only has a month left. We are all devastated but she is keeping so calm and brave about it, just like you. You are both amazing.

Adrian
Just read about you and have been very moved.
As a journalist too I was very interested in the blog and what you have been through. It makes you realise how very lucky we are. Its humbling to read about your experience and I will do what I can to honour your wish. I will pray for you all the way. You look like one tough cookie to me and you should write a book.
By the way John Griffiths gave me my first break on daily news at The Liverpool Echo. he was the Examiner's editor but he's probably moved on now. Not sure he will remember me. Keep fighting the good fight. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sol Buckner

Hello Adrian

Like so many others I was so touched by your interview on Radio 5 - I was driving at the time but had to stop and listen to you as the tears rolled down my face.I immediately wrote down your blog details and as soon as I got back to work I found it on the internet - you really are a true inspiration.Because of YOU I am giving blood on Monday and have registered to be a bone marrow donor in the hope that I can help someone like you - I just wish I could help you. YOU really are making a huge difference. Enjoy every moment with the special people around you who obviously love you very very much.You are a true inspiration.Thank you for touching my life and making a difference.

Thinking of you

Jane

Hi Adrian Sudbury,

I hope you are keeping strong and have faith.
I would like you to research into Islam and think about the hereafter.

I would suggest you look up this website,

http://shareislam.com/

Also search 'Dr.Zakir Naik on Youtube and I'm sure you will like Islam.

Please email me back murtaza01@hotmail.com.

Thank you.

For all the people who have read this and thought about signing up to the donor register - please go through with it, make that phone call, that visit to the doctor. For just a little bit of time, that morning of hassle trying to get an appointment for someone to take your blood one day you might be able to make a massive difference to someone's life.
Adrian, you are clearly surrounded by people who love you dearly, as well as the many, many people who have never met you but followed your blog and would do anything for you, just on the basis of the beautiful character and honesty you have shown in your writing. A mere follower of your blog, I can not offer you any support that you will not already have, except for a prayer that your final days will be as comfortable as possible.
Izzy

Hi Adrian

You are so brave with all you have faced and gone through.

I donated in the session last Thursday in Huddersfield and hope to set up a donor session in Amersham, Buckinghamshire where I now live. I and many others admire how you are being so strong and positive. I hope many more people can take time out and register as a donor. I am spreading the word to collegues and friends around the country.

Take care and remember that there are so many people who love you. You are in our hearts and thoughts.

Love Rachel x

You are so brave I signed up to the register due to campaign through the Examiner for a teenager from an asian background sadly a match could not be found for her. I would love to give my bone marrow. Come on NHS get a mobile clinic in all towns & cities.

Hi Adrian,
I have a friend who had given up chemotherapy and decided it was his time to give up.
However he started taking resveratrol in the hope that it might just be the discovery of the century that many think that it will be.
His condition is improving day by day and he is now convinced that the resveratrol is the key to his recovery.
He continues to use this along with his prescribed medication but will never stop with the resveratrol.
Please look into this product ASAP.
I lost both my parents and two of my best friends to cancer and wish I could turn back the clock and give them a chance with this discovery but I can´t.
Please look into this Adrian.
You might be the key to changing the future.
Please, please look into this, not only for yourself, but all the others who will follow down the road you have traveled.
In admiration and respect,
Taylor Gillespie
PS I cannot give the name of the suppliers of the resveratrol he uses in case you think this may be some sort of advertising for the company.

Hi Matey

Read the Examiner newspaper tonight for the first time in yonks and was really moved by your story. You should have seen me - I was at the bloody launderette (of all places) reading with tears in my eyes....so thanks for that!! LOL

So many other people have said so many wonderful words already that there really is nothing else for me to add to them. You are all of these things they say - and so much more: inspirational, courageous, brave, humourous...to name but a few.

May you and your family grow strong in the knowledge that your voice IS reaching the ears of people who can help. Voices like yours live on forever and ever. You've already had such a positive effect on people's lives - through your story, your journey and your mission - not many people can say that regardless of how long they live. Be very very proud of that matey.

I wish there was something else I could say..but I guess there isn't - and I couldn't say it as witty as you anyhow...so why bother! LOL!

Well, am in Hudds matey - so if you fancy a beer or if there's anything I can do to help then give me a shout! Yeah? The email address is logged within this site - would be great to hear from you.

You're the kind of guy everyone needs as a friend - smart, funny, and a true hero ;-)

We are all very lucky having you in our world. Sending you and your family lots of positive thoughts, energy and love mate.

Alan

I'm an Englishman living in California. I have read your blog for a few months now. i accidentally found it when googling "Sudbury, Suffolk" which is close to where I grew up. I hope when my time comes, I will be able to feel the peace you project.

I have felt inspired to do something to help others through your blog. Unfortunately, as a gay man, I cannot donate blood, bone marrow etc, even thoug i am perfectly healthy in a an obese way. Is that just an American thing (the rejection of my blood/bone marrow) or do they discriminate in the UK the same way?

I have decided therefore that I must get myself back into shape and I will participate in next year's California AIDS Ride, a gruelling ride from SF to LA to raise money for those less fortunate.

Thank you for the wake-up!

hi adrian , id just like to say you are so brave , i saw you on channel 5 last night .
i have had postnantal depression and nearly ened my life i have 4 kids aged 10 to 1 , im 28 . and do you know what reading this i ve seenen how uterly selfish i was been , i wish i could help , i wish you love and kiss s xx joanne xx

Hi Adrian
Matt aged 8 was dx with AML in June 03 and had a BMT donated from his then 9yr old sister Emma.
We were face with a 6month stay in Bristol Childrens hospital.
After lots of complications Matt battled through always with a smile.
We are now almost 5yr post BMT in September and living in France.

All I can say "stay strong" and take care.

Love Jackie

You really are a true inspiration to us all Adiran. After all you have been through I am so sad that your fight is having to end like this but I am so happy i have had the pleasure of meeting and becoming good friends with such an amazing peson as yourself.
I will definitely be joining the bone marrow register. Having feel like i've followed your illness with you through our videos I can see how vital it is for us all to take the time and join the register - I just hope one day i will be able to save somebody's life.
Thinking of you always.
Love Gem x

Hi Adrian-

I applaud your efforts. To all readers, when you do a bone marrow transplant, you don't just save an individual, you save a family. There really isn't much that one can do in life that is better or more charitable.

On a personal note, I would like to thank you. I gave my brother a bone marrow transplant in 1994. Sadly he died in 1996 and while he had two extra years because of it, I never knew whether they were a blessing or a curse. You give me some sense that this time might have been better than I had thought.

Thank you and good luck. Even if just one person reads your story and ends up being a donor, you will have succeeded...indeed you have already succeeded just by trying.

Carol :-)

I saw you on Channel Five news last night. My thoughts are with you and all your family and friends. You are such a brave and inspirational young man, and I really hope that doesn't sound patronising. How incredibly selfless to try to use the time you have left to help others.
You put all our trivial worries into perspective and make us appreciate the things we do have - the things we so often take for granted.
You will stay in my thoughts
xx

Adrian,

You are bloody gorgeous - hair or no hair! If I was 30 years younger I'd marry you myself! Your blog is funny & sad. Don't give up xxx

Hi Adrian

All these comments - you must be pleased with the response.
I haven`t seen or heard you in the media,kept missing you somehow.

Well done,Adrian, for using your time so productively and positively.

An example to us all.

Love to you & your family

Liz

Hi Adrian,

I was so moved by your blog. My dad has CML and thanks to Glivec is fit and well 5 years after his diagnosis. When i get home I'm going to give him a big hug and wish i could give you one too. You sound like you have so many friends and people that care so much that you probaly are never short of hugs but an extra one can never hurt. Take care Sarah xxx

I think you are a very brave man, 3yrs ago doctors thought i had lukemia and it scared the hell out of me. I still have to be chacked every three months but so far so good. Since this has happened to me ive made alot of family and friends join the donor register, if out of all of them only one helps save a life then it would be worth it.

Ey'up AD,
I'd got an appointment to give blood tomorrow anyway, so I rang the blood donor line today to enquire about being a bone marrow donor. I was told all I need to do is ask when I get to the venue and they'll take another blood sample. This sample will then be tested to see if I'm eligible to become a donor or not.
I'm flabergasted it's that simple, if I'd known I'd have done it years ago.
I'm fortunate enough to have met you playing football on the astro-turf on Monday nights. I always thought you were one of the nicest blokes I've ever kicked, but never knew how talented you were.
I wasn't aware that you were ill until I saw you on five news last night. I'll do my best to spread the word about your last mission and ensure your legacy lives on.
Best Wishes
Rich Broady

Dear Adrian,
You are one of the bravest people I know. I can only hope to face such difficult times with as much grace and trust as you do. Know that your words are touching so many.

Wishing you lots and lots of those fun good times with friends. And look forward to reading more of your blog.

With a heart that's so much more open than before,
Dani

Have read trough all of the entries on your blog. You are an incredible person and I really hope for a miracle. I mean come on....you really deserve one for all that you have been through.

You also sound and look sweet...

Best wishes from Iceland

SÞ

Hi Adrian
Just seen your interview on Calendar I hope meeting the powers that be can help raise awareness about the need for bone marrow donors.
You have a brilliant outlook on things and I wish you all the best in your campaign.

Cheers Paul

Hi,
I've just been watching a TV appearance you've just made on look north and decided i'd check out your blog as i was interested and wanted to know more about what you were talking about to see how i could possibly help others in the future.

I'm stunned to read how simple it sounds, and what a big big difference it could make to someone. I also think what your doing involving Gordon Brown and so on about giving talks to younger people is great! I'm currently a year 11 student, (aged 16) And we have never discussed anything of this sort in school at all, i wasnt even aware that transplants of this could be made.

I think it'll make such a difference if talks are actually given in 6th forms, colleges, schools etc...as most people my age are unaware of what can be done.
Watching the videos and reading about it makes it sound very easy to do, and the more people that realise this then the more people will donate.
I just wanted to wish you Good Luck with everything and i really hope more people look in to this and more people are willing to donate :) Claire x

Hello Adrian,

I've just returned from London today having had my pre-donation medical, all being well I'll be donating stem cells in a couple of weeks.

I was slightly apprehensive about the peripheral procedure so was trying to read about some personal experiences, then Google led me to you.

I'm now reading your blog entries retrospectively, starting with the most recent, which whilst being the most serious (although I did LOL at the Chuck Norris analogy) they are also incredibly inspirational.

Your blog has made my (totally irrational) worries disappear and I'm now looking forward to the procedure. I'm also going to share your blog with my friends/family in the hope they will also consider becoming a donor.

Keep smiling mate. Cheers.

Hi Adrian

I am so pleased that you are getting this important message through to so many people - I have hounded everyone I know and the word is spreading! My dad had a bone marrow transplant from his brother back in 1992, and although he passed away due to an unlucky reaction to cyclosporin, he was so excited to be given the chance of life that everyone with this awful disease deserves.
Best of luck with your campaign and all my warmest thoughts are with you - as they have been since your first blog...
Not sure if the Anthony Nolan charity would ever consider it, but it would be so much better if they would consider raising the registration age for donation from 40 to 50. I am 38 but can still donate well into my 50s and it seems such as shame that registration isnt that bit more flexible - there must be thousands of 40+somethings who would be more than happy to join the register if given a chance.
Just something you could broach on your travels.. have a word with Mr Brown at number 10 to see if he can do anything..
Anyway - enough waffle, take care of yourself.
Lots of warm wishes
Dawn Doran, St Helens.

Hoping that each day will bring you the happiness you deserve. Keeping you & your family in my thoughts & prayers x

Hi Adrian,
I just wanted you to know your message is working. I have not given blood for ages but have rung up tonight and am going to go in next few days. I am also going to apply as a bone marrow donor. I hope this helps you realise what you have achieved by writing your blog. You are a very brave man. Love Vicky x

Hi Adrian.
I'm a journalist on the Birmingham Mail. I read your story in the paper today. It's one of outstanding bravery and selflessness. I will be signing up to register and I'm sure you are inspiring hundreds more to do the same. You are making a real difference.
Best wishes. Stay strong.
Adrian Caffery

Dear Adrian,

The news of your relapse is devastating. I hardly have words.

I had only recently learned of the grave world wide shortage of bone marrow donors, and I joined the The National Marrow Donor Program here in the US just last month. I have informed my friends and family of my decision, and I have encouraged them to join with me if they can. I am so sorry that this effort will not be enough to provide the cure you need, but I pray that it may provide something to someone soon.

My thoughts and prayers go out ot you and your loved ones, that you find comfort and peace, and that you continue to fully live your life as long as you can. You are an inspiration to all.

Anil

You will leave behind an incredible footprint Adrian - many of us won't come near leaving such an important and selfless legacy. Keep that with you and sock it to Brown - get him to agree to what you want and don't leave without his signature!
And you have another mission - you need to taste every alcoholic drink going!! And make sure you have a Mojito if you haven't already tried it - white Havana rum, crushed ice, soda, lime and mint leaves.
Cheers - I'm toasting you now with one ;)
judex

Adrian.
I have just seen you on the news, and I have to say I am inspired by your bravery. I have spent the last half hour or so reading your blog and honestly, I have never read anything like it. You really are an inspiration. I am, I am ashamed to say, a real pussy when it comes to needles. I literally could (and have!) pass out at the sight of a needle (even sewing is out! lol) and have always been unable to donate blood because of this.
I promise you, I will without fail, take myself off to the doctors and enquire how to be come a bone marrow donor, and I will register also for blood donation. I find this really difficult to talk about, but I lost my grandfather 28 years ago to leukaemia, and I have never felt an urge to do something like this until I saw you on TV tonight. I will do this Adrian, and I will be passing your site on to all my friends and family and will try and get them involved too.
You are an amazing person and I hope you are very proud of yourself.
Lots of love and all the very best wishes to you and your family. XXXX

hi Adrian,
Just to let you know, I stuck to my word. I have registered with the National Blood Service and will be giving blood hopefully in the next 10 days, and will take it from there. Thankyou so much for appearing on TV. Your bravery is totally outstanding. It is people like you, that really do, change the world.
Much love. xxxxxx

Hello Adrian,

I feel for your situation, having to face cancer and knowing you are running out of options is not easy. You have the choice to keep fighting or not, but I ask you is reconsider. Just, have a look at all your test results and see why Glivec failed. I live with leukaemia, since 1996, with out Glivec or bone marrow transplant. This is not about me but about you, you have to look at your results and see why this leukaemia is destroying you, ask the doctors to find answers they don't have. The following generation of drugs from Glivec may have the answer, but I don't how enough about your cancer or these drugs. What ever you decide to do, believe in yourself. Childhood leukaemia is so hard for kids to fight because they don't have a fully developed immune system. About me, I am only maybe one of about dozen cancer patients in the country who is still alive after using interferon for about four years and still in remission, how or why I have no idea. Part of the key is the state of the immune system.

Adrian, your choice, your life, where you decide to go I hope and want you find peace and maybe some of the answers.

Peace

Kirit Chauhan

Hi Adrian, I only stumbled across your blog today and wish I had earlier. My daughter has just passed away after 5 years living with lymphoma and the mets that followed. She would have loved to talk to someone her age going through this process. In order to sort out her feelings, she started a blog too, it is at jess-journey.blogspot.com I think writing it it helped her out a little, so she decided to start a website called dyingforbeginners.com. Unfortunately she passed away before it really got going. Maybe her writings will help you. All the best Adrian and make each day count, Julia in Australia

Sending you all a big hug and so much
love and light
Annie

Adrian,

Ryan's ECPP procedure is modified for his small size and it is basically a stem collection procedure for 2-3 hours two days in a row every two weeks. Ryan has had over 110 treatments like this in the past 2 yrs. Cripe - he started when he was only 9 yrs old. If he can do this over one hundred times in two years the rest of us have NO EXCUSES!

He even had this procedure on both his last two birthdays. Hope this helps push others to "JUST DO IT!"

Love to you, our friend and comrade,
Amy Patrick
(Ryan's mom)

Hi Adrain.
I have only just met you through the television this morning. I think you are a truely brave and courageous person, to share your life like this and in so doing, helped and will help thousands and thousands of people in the future. You are such an inspiration, and I thank you for that. I send you, Poppy and your family my thoughts and love. I am so sorry for the outcome, life is so rediculously unfair. Thank you for you. Jenny x

Hang on in there buddy.

Hi Adrian -

Just been watching BBC Breakfast, and it prompted me to find your site. I support your campaign 100%. While I was at Sixth Form College the Anthony Nolan Trust visited and explained all about being a bone marrow donor to us. I registered, and have been on the register ever since. I have to confess if it hadn't been brought to me, it is unlikely I would have bene so proactive in seeking out how to register.

So Good Luck, and Well Done. You are an inspiration.

Take care -

Louise.

Hi Adrian

Today's a beautiful day and I pray you have a very fulfilling one. Remembr Jesus loves you - I mean that and wants you well. DON'T GIVE UP. There are a lot of people praying for you and we all need you to HOLD ON!

Would be glad to speak to you.

07790310506

Nicole

Adrian, you are a courageous young man and we really feel for you..you will defintely be in our family prayers and we will pray for you at church.
We want you to know you can identify with Jesus in that Jesus went through a similar experience about 2000 years ago when he had to die on the cross for the sins of the whole world, for my sins and your sins. It didn't seem fair but the result of his death created an opportunity for us all to have our sins forgiven if we sincerely ask God for forgiveness through Christ with a repentant heart.
Adrian you are doing a marvelous thing by raising awareness about lukemia and meeting the Prime Minister..well done!!God will reward your determination and contributions to save the lives of others like Jesus did when He died for us all...please say a simple prayer asking Jesus into your life and asking Him to forgive all your sins with a sincere heart.
Love drove Jesus to the cross to die for the whole world, for us and for you, accept that love today with a simple prayer inviting Jesus into your life and asking Him to forgive your sins

We love you and will be praying for you...dont give up for with God all things are possible!!!

Adrian,

I've just seen your appearance on BBC Breakfast - fantastic to hear your cause and to discover your blog. You've moved me to tears this morning and made me realise just how little people like me consider the dire need for additional bone marrow transplants.

Thank you for being such a strong guy and bringing issues like this into the headlines - it's about time we all realised how we can help and not to be so complacent.

Wishing you, Poppy, and your family all the very best - with love and thanks, Louise

I have just seen you on BBC Breakfast and was very moved by your courage and your message. I am wondering if there is a age limit for being a donor (I am 46) I will certainly register if there is no age limit.
I wish you and your familly well and I am sure you will/have already made a hugh difference to this area.

Dave Scarrett

What a fantastic cause. I support blood donation and am on the register for organ and marrow donation too. I'm always trying to encourage my friends to donate but they are so often reluctant.

Having moved to the US to study I have been disappointed to find that my blood is not wanted. Americans are afraid of catching BSE from the UK and when I visit my home in the UK they are afraid of getting West Nile Virus so all I can do for now is encourage others to donate.

Keep up the good work.

Hi Adrian
Saw you on the telly this morning.
I joined the Anthony Nolan Trust register about 10 years ago and 2 years ago I donated using stem cell harvesting.The procedure is so easy, I would prefer this than to going to the Dentist. The Trust were superb in their support all through the process.
The reason I'm writing this is to try and explain the tremendous sense of achievment you feel. This has been the single most worthwhile thing I have ever done in my life and it is difficult to put into words the feelings it gives you.
I still don't know the identity of the person who received the donation as they chose to remain anonymous, however to receive a simple 4 line letter, through the Trust, from that person thanking you for the greatest gift they could ever have been given has such a profound effect it is difficult to put into words. My wife and myself simply dissolved into tears.
So everybody out there, just do it. It will be something you can be proud of for the rest of your life.

Andy

Hello Adrian
I have just seen your interview on BBC Breakfast. I wish I was ten years younger so I could donate Bone Marrow (I am 52). God bless xx

Hi Adrian,
Really sorry to hear your news.
I run Marrow in Newcastle (the student branch of the ANT)and just wanted to let you know that one of our plans for next year is to start going into sixth forms to talk about the register, how to join and what donation involves.
Stay strong, Nikki xx

Hi Adrian, Have you seen research and treatments done in other countries e.g. stemcellresearchcures.com which has had success curing some kinds of leukemia with stem cells from the patient's own blood?
'The extraction of stem cells from adults and umbilical cord blood causes no harm to the patient. These are completely life-affirming options of research. Cures to diseases can be found without killing human beings unlike Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research.

Research using stem cells obtained from adults and umbilical cord blood has been used to help thousands of people with various ailments. At least 73 different diseases or ailments have been treated with or helped by the use of adult stem cells including with Parkinson's, spinal cord injuries, various forms of leukemia, heart damage, and various forms of cancer.

Research and treatments using stem cells from adults and umbilical cord blood have shown that these cells aren't likely to form tumors.

Adult stem cells usually come from a patient's own body and have the same DNA as the patient so they don't face the risk of being rejected by the patient's body. The National Marrow Donor Program allows couples to donate the blood from their child's umbilical cord after birth. This blood is rich in stem cells and allows doctors to find matches to patients who need help.'
Also its not a bad idea to take the natural and safe zeolite drops; I take Natural Cellular Defense which support a healthy immune system, remove heavy metals and toxins.

Mate
I just saw you on BBC news and was inspired by your fortitude. Having briefly looked at your blog I can see your situation isn't straightfoward and that it must take a lot of effort to rationalise things and stay strong. I know it sounds trite to say 'well done' but well done nonetheless. I will now search out how to register as a donor, re-engage with giving blood (only did it once) and if I ever face a personal challenge as big as yours, hope to face it as well as you.
Cheers,
Chris

Hello Adrian
just seen you on morning tv and would like to thank you for being so brave and for doing your wonderful and generous work in promoting the campaign for bone marrow transplants. We have a friend about your age with the same diagnosis and are now learning about the illness. I am unfortunately too old to donate but that does not mean we cannot help. I am linking your blog to my relatives especially those in uni and schools and will try to make as many people aware as possible.
Keep your spirits up as many people are praying for you and other people suffering with you.
God Bless Yvonne

I saw a piece about you on BBC website, and as a result I have done the first stage of registering with the Blood service. Thanks for the kick up the arse. I will pass the link on to all my friends too. I hope you feel good about the fact that you are getting people moving on this.
emma

Hi Adrian

What amazing energy you have to inspire and move stuff forward whilst fighting this hideous disease. My husband was diagnosed with CML in 2003. Your story rang so many familiar and almost rusty bells for me this morning - diagnosis, shock, chemo, Glivec, hope, despair, the rollercoaster to hell, transplant... My husband was kept on Glivec for a year with good results until the twisted DNA mutated into an uglier headed monster and he hit blast stage with life measured in weeks, but not many months. An earlier search for transplant donors came up with 6 close (but not close enough) matches in the States, and finally one German hope (as you say, no coincidence the donor was German). He had moved home and we had about 3 weeks left before build up should start, but in Germany ID systems are in place, so they found him quickly. It was excellent it was HIM (men are the best donors) and perfectly aged, just 22. (Best donors are under 25). We are now 4 years post transplant; hubby has GVHD of the skin, gut and eyes, but is surprisingly well, works full time and is happy. We haven't met with his donor yet, but when we do I won't have enough words, the right words to let him know what he has done not just for my husband, but all of us who love him - me, our children, his parents, friends. I don't understand how it has been for you - one thing I have learnt is just how different people's experiences of this disease are. We lost my nephew to lymphoma (diagnosed 2 weeks before my husband) at just 21 - he battled, drank, laughed and loved evryone - but as I started out, hats off and enormous respect to you, Adrian for battling on raising awareness in the face of your own war. My heart goes out to you with my thanks. As many others have offered, if I can help, let me know...

Hi Adrian
Saw you on TV this morning. Will be signing up for blood and bone marrow today.
Thanks for the inspiration mate

Adie

Dear Adrian,

I hope you know how wonderfully life affirming and gently human your blog is. I shan't repeat the wonderful sentiments expressed here by others, but I shall go and find out if I can become a donor.

Thank you for the gift of sharing your experiences and changing my day today.

Peace be with you.

Well done Adrian. Your campaign to raise awareness of the simplicity of being a donor is something I have been trying to do for the last 18 months. I was a donor in 2006 and the procedure was so simple. You're treated so well during the whole process that it was an absolute joy to do it. My recipient was apparently a large male and so I was required to go through the process two days running (even though I'm a large male myself!). I had no problem with that at all.

I spoke with someone from Anthony Nolan at the time because I struggled to find details of the procedure on their website. I'm so glad that you've brought it front and centre on your blog. People do need to know how easy it is. Good luck with your campaign in the time you have left. I sincerely hope that during the next few weeks and months you achieve your goals.

Kind regards,

John

Hi Adrian,
I have been keeping up to date with you since Xmas and have now just watched you on BBC Breakfast news. I know I will be saying the same as everyone else if I tell you how brave and inspirational you are so I wont do that!

I am a year younger than you and last year lost my boyfriend of 4 years due to leukemia. Like you he had treatment which didnt work and finally decided not to go through anymore. His decision broke my heart but looking back on the last times we had together I have to say that he was right (he will be laughing at me now!).
He had some happiness and seemed to get great comfort almost, from the "relief" of not having to battle anymore. That doesnt mean he gave up - he enjoyed his life for awhile as a man of that age should.

Adrian, Im sure your decision has also upset and possibly angered some people but no one can doubt the courage and strength you have shown for so long. So many people will be devasted by your death but remember that just as many will have been comforted by your life.

Ill keep popping in for as long as you are here.

Vikki

I am 62 and have been a blood doner for over 18 years. About 10 years ago I tried to volunteer to be a bone marrow doner and was told very bluntly and rudely that I was too old. As I understand it, the reason for putting an age limit on dorors is purely economical and is not for any medical reason. They want to get enough years out of donors! I have always understood that the procedure for getting bone marrow is not very pleasant but I was quite willing to put up with that if it meant helping someone else. Perhaps you could try to persuade the rule makers that the over 50s are not past it and thus get access to a whole new group of people for donation. Good luck with yor campaign.

Morning Adrian

Seen you at last on breakfast.You look better than I do at that hour in the morning!

Well done on all your efforts and if there is anything we can do,please get in touch.

Best Wishes to you all

Liz

PS We`ve sold out of tickets for our LRF do on June 9th.

I rea about you on the BBC website an just ha to come over and thank you for being so courageous. This is an important fight that we all need to be part of.

I am sorry that you are ill again and I hope you are not in pain. I will be thinking of you and praying for you. God bless.

ADRIAN PLEASE PLEASE TALK TO DAVID HAMILTON, AN INSPIRATIONAL GUY WHO HAS WRITTEN VARIOUS BOOKS ON THE CONNECTIONS BETWEEN MIND/BODY/DIS EASE. eg 'IT'S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS'
HE MAY GIVE YOU A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON THE PATH YOUR LIFE IS TAKING.
THIS IS NOT SOME CRANK - HE'S HIGHLY QUALIFIED TO SPEAK ON THIS STUFF - IF YOU KEEP AN OPEN MIND YOU CAN LISTEN THEN CHOOSE WHAT FEELS RIGHT FOR YOU.
YOU ARE AN AMAZING YOUNG MAN. AT 26 YOU'VE ALREADY DONE SO MUCH GOOD IN THE WORLD. STAY AROUND AND YOU WILL DO MORE.
WITH MUCH LOVE AND ADMIRATION
ERIN

about a year ago i became a bone marrow donor through the national blood service. All the way through the process i was being made aware of possible side effects like tiredness and aching joints and a few slightly worse that are almost non existent. I can see why some people can get scared off. The truth of the matter was that i had no pain what so ever. In fact I felt a bit of a fraud because everyone treated me like a hero and I didn't feel that I'd done anything. I didn't even have a bruise where the needle was to show anybody. The only thing I felt was the pride in myself that I may have helped someone in trouble. If you want to get a feel good factor about yourself I would reccomend it to anyone.

I joined the register about 8 years ago after a friend of mine did. I took the posters into work with me and the son of one of my colleagues saw them and also joined. Within days of him joining he donated - there had been someone desperately waiting for his tissue type to come along.

Reading your blog reminded me to update my contact details - i have moved house since i registered.

I will post the video on a very popular site i use.

Keep strong.

Have just seen you on Breakfast - we send you our love, and every good wish. We're rooting for you. We have had 3 close relatives who have died of cancer (- and we were praying for all of them to be healed!) and so I am very reluctant to send you anything but our love, but if you've a minute check out www.ignitedchurch.com. Much love.

Adrian

I saw the link to your blog on the Sky website last night and sat and read the whole thing from the beginning.

I have to say that along with thousands of other people that read and comment on your blog I was very upset to read that the Leukemia is back and you've decided not to continue with the treatment. After reading all that you've already been through though, only you know what's best for you and I think you are a very brave person to have made the choice you have. I'm sure I would have given up long before now.

I'm only sorry that I didn't know about your blog sooner, although maybe it would have been more upsetting if I'd known you all that time to now learn that you're time is limited.

Nothing, this stranger says is going to help you now but I just want to send you all my love and best wishes for the rest of the time you have with us and will be thinking about you every single day. I know I don't know you at all but I'm crying as I write this as life is just sooooooooooo unfair.

God Bless you Adrian

Lisa x

Hi Adrian,

I just stumbled on your blog via the BBC website. I admire your courage and wanted to let you know that there is still hope!

Not sure if you have heard, but people have been healed of Cancer's and Tumour's and all kinds of sickness including being raised from the dead! There is a church service in Florida that has been going on continously for over a month, and people are flying there from all over the world to be healed.

People have been healed even watching the broadcasts on the tv and internet.

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/great-florida-healing-revival

I will pray for you!

J

P.S.

I'm already on the bone marrow list and have been for years. I've never been contacted but one day someone may need my help and I'll be there immediately x

Hello Adrian, I have just come across your site on the BBC news website. I am 9 months pregnant, and my baby is due today, a little boy. My husband is also a journalist and started his new job this week, after months of looking for a position, which was a very stressful time. Imagine if he had to go through what you did during your first week of work....You sound utterly amazing and inspirational, even though you have been through some hideous experiences. As a result of reading your site, I have just emailed the Anthony Nolan site to register to become a bone marrow donor as soon as I have had my baby. I hope that you keep your spirits up, and make the most of your next few weeks and months. Some people spend a lifetime wasting theirs, at least you are doing something worthwhile.
Very best wishes, Vicky

I am praying for you, you are very brave. my sister is getting treated for ALL and I know how hard it is to watch, I can't imagine going through it. I hope that your days to come are filled with love.
God bless.

Dear Adrian,

I heard about your plight for the first time this morning on BBC Breakfast News and I have just been reading some of your blog entries. I am truly humbled by your courageous quest to do something amazing for those who may be unlucky enough to endure the same condition as you in years to come.

I am also inspired. And now, as completely squeamish as I am, I am going to get myself on that donor register and I will tell others to do the same.

Someone once told me that cancer has impeccable taste and you are proof of that - It clearly picked a good'un. I know so many people will be thinking of you and if they are eligible, perhaps they consider registering in your name.

love and respect, Alana Grattan. Lancs.

Dear Adrian,

I wish you well with your campaign for life. Your courage in using this experience to bring hope and life to others is indeed honourable and admirable. I have recently learned a physio-energetic technique to boost the lymphatic system in it's cleansing of the body's fluids. It was suppose to have been very successful in the treatment of children with leukeamia in Germany in the late 1930s. I have no statistics or previous results but I would be more than happy to teach you this for your own healing, if you are interested. If something so simple was to work for you, perhaps in conjunction with the bone marrow campaign it could bring opportunity to many in despair.
Best wishes,
Fran

Hi I just read your story on the BBC website, and I had been put off by the thought of bone marrow donation because of misconceptions, I will register as a donor straight away now! keep spreading the word, I think your tremendous.

Best wishes

Rachel

Saw you on TV this morning. Hope it really makes a difference and encourages people to give blood and sign up to donor registers. I have been giving blood since I was 18 and dragging friends along whenever possible. Also went on the bone marrow donor register though have just realised listening to you that I may soon be too old to donate. Will be thinking of you and making sure I drag more friends along to my next blood donor session. Sara

I have spent the morning reading through your blog's... and to be honest I can't believe what a strong person you are. I mean, someone could be a body builder etc etc, but without the strength in their mind/convictions they are really quite weak. But you are not. In the face of everything thrown at you, you're standing strong. You are fighting for a change, and it is working. I have seen your story twice now, and I am going to look into donating. Your story and your plight has really touched me and I thank you for that. I know time is precious, but you have my email, if you would like to talk then please contact me.

Vikki

Hey Adrian,

Saw you on the BBC this morning.
You are doing an amazing thing.

Unfortunately I wasn't a suitable donor for my brother but a few years later (when I decided to start thinking about other people again and not be consumed in my own grief) I went straight onto the bone marrow register.
It never crossed my mind if it would hurt me or bother me that I'd be out of action for a couple of weeks if I could help give someone a second chance.
I sometimes think I went on the register for a selfish reason - to make me feel better. Maybe I did.
2 weeks ago, my boyfriend Adam and I did a charity bike ride for Leukaemia Research. I have never done the charity thing before as again it's almost like I'm doing it to make me feel better but I am so proud that we have managed to raise nearly £650 (and still rising).

Have you been down the herbal route (revenol, essiac tea etc)?? Just wondering as my Dad had 4 years to live (Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma) and went on the herbal stuff and *touch wood* he is still here now and that was 10 years ago!
He had my Mum on it straight away when she got diagnosed with breast cancer and again *touching more wood* she has been clear for over a year now.

I hope for a miracle for you and I, like many others, will be supporting you....so if there is anything I can do....

Jules

Saw your story on the BBC news site this morning
I immediately signed up as a bone marrow donor.

Chalk up another one!

Hi Adrian

I donated bone marrow about 8 years ago through Anthony Nolan. A few years later I began giving a talk at the local sixth form about my experience in assocoiation with Anthony Nolan. This has continued each year. The take up has been very good and I know of at least 2 donations. It really works.

All the best.
David

Hi Adrian,

I was truely touched by your story which shown this morning on the BBC. You are an amazing person for making it your last mission to raise awareness for bone marrow donation. As many people, I thought this was only possible between close blood relations, thank you for making me less ignorant about the whole issue. I guess I never really thought about it.

I find it amazing of how courageous you are , with a smile on your face and all. You truely are an amazing person. I wish you the best of luck over the next few months, my thoughts will be with you.

The blood van is over near my work in the next few weeks, I will certainly ask about bone marrow donation, if not before then. Everybody deserves a chance to be saved.

Keep up the good work Adrian, I think you're really making a difference. If you touch people like you've touched me, then your mission will be won.

All the best,

Robynne Eller (age 20)

Adrian YOU HAVE INSPIRED A LOT OF PEOPLE!! Thanks a lot!!

-Neeladri,India

Your plea has just crossed the boarder to the Netherlands. I have translated your plea and urged others to make it viral.
Your message will save lives!

Hiya, Having just watched you on BBC breakfast about 1 hour ago-I just knew I had to get in touch with you. What an incredible person you are-the strength you showed this morning from someone the same age as me really blew me away.
I will definately be donating and asking my family and friends too also. You will have touched so many people this morning.

I hope you enjoy meeting Gordon Brown today-and enjoy your day in London. Take care of yourself,I look forward to reading all about your visit. Kelly xxx

I saw on BBC news this morning and am so touched by your bravery. I will register to donate my bone marrow today.
God bless x

Adrian
I wanted to say how much I admire you and what you are doing. I wish I was under 40 (sadly some 15 years over) or your inspirational appearance on Breakfast would have had me donating marrow. I shall have to stick with blood. I do hope others can support the good work of those who do donate. Best wishes.
Kevin

Hi Adrian

Like others I was inspired by your Breakfast TV appearance to visit your blog and add my comments. I am an Anthony Nolan donor. I went on the register back in the eighties and two years ago was called back to give additional blood samples. I was discovered to be a match and the donation was arranged. Like most donations, this was to be through the harvesting of stem cells. An initial consultation and further blood samples was required a couple of weeks before the donation date. The procedure commenced with the course of injections four days prior to harvesting. One of the side effects of this is bone pain but I did not suffer any at all.

The separation procedure commenced in the morning at UCL Hospital in London. In my case it took five or six hours and the worst side effect was boredom! The arm from which the blood is being taken has to remain still though there is a bit more manoeuverability in the return arm. After a few hours I got a tingling sensation in my fingertips - this is a reaction to the anti-coagulant they add to the blood. They give you calcium tablets and maybe a calcium drip is added to the returning blood to counteract the effect. When the harvesting is complete they unhook you from the machine and tell you to come back an hour or so later - by then they have tested it to find out if there are enough cells. If not an extra session on the machine will be booked for the following day. In my case, however, it wasn't required and the rest of the day was my own.

At all stages the Anthony Nolan Trust were excellent, providing all the support I required along with the practical aspects such as hotels and flights down to London. My wife was allowed to accompany me and the follow up care was excellent as well. Six months or so later they contacted me again to say that the recipient needed a 'top-up'. This necessitated another visit to UCL and another session on the cell separation machine. However, on this occasion white blood cells were separated rather than stem cells so no injections were required prior to the procedure which itself took less time than previously. Bearing in mind my previous experience, calcium was administered from the start and I had none of the tingling sensation I had had before.

I know nothing of the recipient other than it was an adult male. I don't know whether the transplant was successful or not. The satisfaction for me is knowing that my donation gave him a chance he would not otherwise have had. I can't praise the Anthony Nolan Trust enough for both the job they do and their the way they look after those of us on the register who get the call. I would urge anyone who fits the profile to join the register - they are particularly in need of young males. I believe you have to be under forty to join but once you are on it you can stay there until you are sixty. I had just turned 45 when I made the donation.

Adrian, I wish you all the best for the time you have left. I support your campaign and offer my services to you should you require it. People are put off joining the register due to fear of the unknown - just what it would be like to make the donation should they get the call. Having been through it I can say that it is actually a doddle, especially when compared with what recipients like yourself have to go through. The most moving part of making the donation was that it took place at the haematology oncology unit at UCL. I was a healthy donor. The real heroes were those brave people that were hooked up to their chemotherapy drips. People like you, Adrian.

By the way, interested to see that you work for the Examiner I'm Huddersfield born and bred and though I live in Scotland now I, like many, still have a lot of affection for the place.

All the best

Neil H

Adrian, Saw the TV this morning and thought you were brilliant. Checked out the blog - nice one, very much what a blog should be. Painfully honest. I'm off to donate blood this evening, regular appointment, but this time will find out more about marrow while I'm there. Good luck with everything mate - the world is a better place for people like you. Stay positive - it's a shining light. Good on ya. Rob

Hi Adrian
I saw you on telly this morning and, having donated stem cells myself in November 2007 I just wanted to reiterate how simple a process it is. I've been on the register for about 4 years, having been giving blood for about 6. I actually thought I was too old and that's why I had never been called, but I suddenly got a call in September last year - I was 41 at the time - asking if I was still prepared to donate. I went through a series of blood tests and counselling to ensure I knew what I was doing, and then before I knew it, I was in the Royal Free in Hampstead having my blood taken out by an amazing machine. It took about 4 hours on 2 consecutive days, I got to stay in a nice hotel in North London, have a couple of lovely meals out (all courtesy of the Antony Nolan Trust - who are wonderfully kind and generous to donors) and all I had to show for it was a few bruises on my arms which went away within a week or so.

Ultimately the process is nothing more than a "bit of a chore" but such a worthwhile chore that I would recommend to anyone who can, to get on the register asap. There was no pain involved, ok, perhaps a bit of discomfort - and weeing in a chair toilet thing was a bit of a faff - but I was so well looked after that it really wasn't such a big deal. Friends and family all thought I was something of a hero for having gone through it, particularly as it was an anonymous donation - my stem cells were whisked off to Manchester immediately following my donation, but I didn't do it to be a hero - I did it because I really wanted to help someone, and I would hope, that in the event of myself or a member of my family becoming ill, then someone somewhere would be willing to do the same for me.

I'm rattling on a bit, but this is something I feel quite passionate about. I really hope that your campaign gets people thinking, and more importantly, actually doing! I've had no after affects whatsoever - although I still can't donate blood, I think I can start again in June.

I wish you the very best - I think you are a very brave and courageous young man and I'm so sorry that it hasn't worked out for you - god that sounds so feeble "worked out for you"! I hope you enjoy the rest of your time, you are clearly an inspiration.
Best wishes
Jane

I have only just heard about your fight against this horrible disease. I would like to say that I think you are an amazing human being. I have lost a couple of friends to other forms of cancer and they were both fighters until the end. I give blood regularly and will be joining the bone marrow donor register. I hope you have an amazing last few weeks/months and live life to the full. Clare

Hello Adrian

Firstly, I am glad you didn't take your life. After reading all your blog entries, I sense that you are a fighter and fighters don't quit. Although I cannot imagine all the mixed emotions you must be and have already gone through, culminated with all the physical aspects of your disease, I do believe you have achieved much already and still can.

Secondly, it's rather fortuitous that I literally stumbled across your blog site, as I have just nominated myself as a bone marrow donor for a friend of mine in Australia that I've known for over 20 years (he's an old school friend of mine). He was clear of his leukemia for 5 years and it returned last year. He has been having all the usually treatment and it's gone OK but he's in need of a transplant and is on the 'list' and waiting for a donor. I'm no matyr, trust me but I hate to think of him or anyone suffering in this way.

The information you have provided on your site in regards to donating has made me feel at ease about the procedure and I'm considering donating here in the UK as well. I urge others to do the same.

Adrian, I wish you all the best from the bottom of my heart.

Eva-Marie

Dear Adrian

Having read your story I have been moved to register as a donor. Thank you for enlightening me to this campaign and I promise you I will be a donor if they accept me.

All best wishes and very kindest regards,

Nicki Gilbert.

PS Adrian

Still got the same old hat! Would you like me to post some new ones?

Liz

People have so many weird and daft reasons to not donate stuff, and it's such a shame because it's so so important. So I love what you're doing. Well done.

I've just read your feature on the BBC web site. I'm already a blood donor, but have now decided to register as a bone marrow donor. I'll be 40 next year, but at least a year is better than nothing.

I wish I'd done it sooner.

The BBC, the beeb, Auntie
It was here where i first learned of baldy.
Situation devastating, a tragic waste of good
Speaking up for a cause that everybody should.

He recounted his illness,
educating the masses at large.
Pushed for more marrow,
helping similar get a recharge.
He Bared his soul,
To aid others survive.
So they could continue on in there life
And go on to thrive.

So although i never knew you,
And through unfortunate situation i never will.
Simply as a salute to honest heroes like you,
I'm now happily a donor for others who are ill.

Good luck on your quest!
Roj

Adrian
My son got leukaemia aged 4 (ALL)then relapsed with it at age 12. At age 15 it returned again but as AML and we had the discussions about paleative care etc that you will have had. We chose in the end to fight on and my son was given a stem cell transplant with a less than 5% success rate. 5 years on and still no relapse!
Yes it was dreadful treatment but we have to believe it was worth it.
I am writing because the BBC report says you have been given a less than 20% chance and therefore have decided its not worth it. I wanted you to know that it can be. I know all cases are different and so your problems are different to my sons but I just really wanted you to know that it is possible to beat the odds.
I have followed your story via press and tv and am full of admiration for your battle.

best wishes
Simon Towers

Adrian I have just read your news after being away for a few days and I am speechless. Nothing can I say to make everything better I really wish there was but - bugger.

Love to you and to all your family.

Katie "I broke my leg falling off my shoes" Game
xxxx

Adrian

Good luck with this challenge. I have personally been on the bone marrow list for 8 years now and have not yet been called upon to donate. I was asked to provide some more samples on one occasion but unfortunatly I was not a match. I fully support your views on this subject and on many occasions I have tried, unsucessfully, to get friends and family to sign up. I hope when people see you, a real life sufferer of this disease, it will inspire them to act.

I have run the London Marathon a couple of times for the AN Trust and rasied about £2500 but its campaigns such as yours and goverment support they need to be able to influence this issue further.

Look after yourself and best wishes to you and your family for the future.

David - Huddersfield

Hi Adrian, a colleague saw you on the Breakfast news this morning and told me about you and your blog. Having just read through some of it, I am sitting here fighting back the tears. I was diagnosed with APL leukaemia last year, but was lucky as it has a good survivability rate and after 6 months of chemo I am in remission and healthy again. What made the chemo bearable was believing that it was likely to nuke the leukaemia, so I can understand why you have now decided to say enough is enough.

I also wanted to say thank you for what you are doing now regarding bone marrow. As I don't have any siblings, I would have been reliant on the register if the initial treatment had not been successful.

Once I was in the clear, I had a stem cell harvest so if the leukaemia comes back they can give me my own stem cells. Speaking as a complete wuss who hates needles, it really is not that bad! The GCSF injections sting but aren't as bad as having blood taken, and yes apart from a bit of bone ache, no side effects. They give you a local anaesethic before the main needle goes in your arm and you really don't feel that. Once it is running you don't feel a thing, just sit around and watch a dvd or read a book. (You can't go the loo though once you are hooked up, so don't have a coffee before you start unless you want to pee in a bottle!) The only after effects were a slightly sore arm and feeling a bit tired for a couple of days.

I've also had numerous bone marrow samples taken and again speaking as a wuss, they are aren't bad at all. Mine are done under sedation which means I have no memory of them and nothing apart from a sore bit on my pelvis for a couple of days.

If fear of needles or pain is stopping anyone, please don't let it. I still have problems when they put needles in me for blood samples or to give me sedation, but the actual process of a stem cell harvest or getting bone marrow directly is actually less traumatic for me.

Leukaemia is a shitty illness and I am really sorry that things haven't worked out better for you. Your efforts now however might help others to have better outcomes.

If you want to get in touch I'd love to hear from you, but I guess that you are busy enough. Hang in there as best you can, I and many others will be thinking of you.

All the best, Allon
P.S. You call yourself baldy, it could be worse, my wife called me Nosferatu!

i am in the bone marrow register, but my interior motive of writing this is to say put your trust in God. Some might say why didnt God help all those people who suffered including you, my simple reply would be inevitably we are all going to die whether young or old, "healthy" or sick , rich or poor, and that will not be the end of it, because the real life is the hereafter where all justice is made.

Andrew

Hi Adrian,
I watched you on BBC Breakfast this morning. Well done for bringing this matter to the surface. You are most certainly a very courageous young man and my thoughts and prayers will be with you ( if you will allow them to be). I'm 50 so too old to help but I will be looking into other ways I can offer supportthis later today, and will also encourage as many younger people as I possibly can in registering. Perhaps you or someone could tell me where I can find assistance for this in Norfolk (UK) and where I am likely to find poster and leaflet publicity. Adrian, you are truly an Inspiration (((hugs from my family)).

Adrian, you are inspirational! You remind me so much of my husband Tony who tragically died 14 years ago in very similiar circumstances to yours. He also had a relatively unusual and difficult form of leukaemia (Philiadelphia positive ALL)which months of intensive chemo followed by a bone marrow transplant. Unfortunately for Tony, his own body rejected the donor marrow after he succumbed to a lung infection (PCP), and we were eventually told that he had relapsed. It was at this stage that he also decided enough was enough, as he felt his body (and mind) couldn't take any more chemo and he also wanted to spend what remaining time he had left with his family. Was this defeatist? NO WAY! That wasn't his style at all. He told the doctors "Give me some steroids and painkillers - I've got people to see, places to go, things to do", and he did just that for the next few weeks, which really were "quality", to coin a phrase. Yes, he became physically weaker, but mentally he was better than he'd been for a long time and we enjoyed special time together with friends and family, which some people never get to do. I was dreading the final days, but you know they weren't anywhere near as bad as I'd imagined because the pain was under control, right up to the end. Tony's last weekend was spent at home, watching football on TV, having a couple of beers and 'chilling out'. After he died, we did a lot of fund-raising for Leukaemia Research and the Anthony Nolan Trust, and still do. If there is anything I can do to help with your awareness campaign in schools and colleges, then I will be more than happy to do so. In the meantime, take care and indulge in whatever makes you happy!

Hi Adrian - been meaning to do this for a while... thanks for the kick up the arse...Just registered

Good Morning Adrian..........watched and listened to you on TV this a.m. and wondered if perhaps you wanted a wee holiday... we live in the most beautiful part of Scotland..... very remote...... no pollution...... no crime ...no violence..... run a small B & B and would be delighted to gift you and a member of your family or a friend a short stay in our home........ would rather have done this anonymously but don't have a contact other than this one....... keep up the good work....regards Tina

Salam Adrian,

I was on the BBC website and I came across your blog; we were so taken aback by your story, that some of us within the Skipton Muslim Community now want to do some charity work on behalf of the bone marrow charity you represent.

Essentially, myself and two other friends are hoping to run in 3 events after Ramadhaan is over (~October). So please email me on skiptonisoc@yahoo.co.uk, as to which charities you would like us to support.

Secondly, I am thinking this question me be rhetorical, but is blood supply for transfusions an acute issue amongst Asians?

I look forward to your response and may God provide you with good in both this life and the next, Ameen.

Q

Hi Adrian ...
I am a reporter with ITV regions (ITV Border based in Carlisle). Without going on too much, I have a personal interest in bone marrow transplants etc. My wife had ALL (she died a year ago last May) aged 34.
I was going to launch a big chuffin campaign last year cos she relapsed after an autologous stem cell transplant but it all proved too little too late. By the time they found a donor (in America) she was too far gone. I wanted to throw myself into something, shaking people from their ignorance of stem cell transplants, but when she died all the fight fell away from me. As long as you can, I hope you do really well in the campaign. But if there's owt I can do to help, well, just drop me an email on my itv account. Oh, and another thing, when my wife (sarah) was in your position, she wrote an article which got published in the Guardian. If you feel like reading it, cut and paste the link below... or search for "Sarah Hitchin, Guardian" ... She was a pretty good writer even though she had no interest in being a journalist (I think I put her off with my tales of death-knocks!!)
Matthew Taylor

http://64.233.183.104/search?q=cache:s9jLJ2dteMMJ:lifeandhealth.guardian.co.uk/relationships/story/0,,2081908,00.html+sarah+hitchin,+guardian&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=uk

Thanks Adrian for lifting my spirits. I am currently going through a scare where my lovely wife may be in remission for breast cancer for the third time. Seeing you talking on TV really gave me a boost because of your attitude to it all and it made me think twice for being so selfish about "what am I going to do" if she is ill again and she doesn't make it this time.We have planned a 12 month sabbatical, and come what may, we are going to go regardless so we can enjoy our time together. Cheers buddy..Paul

Adrian,

Legend- signing up today! Chalk another one off- if I ssave someones life it's down to you.

Cheers.

Mate,

I've been on the donor register for 10 years but no match has yet come up. I've read your amazing blog - and just emailed the Anthony Nolan Trust to say I want to organise a donor recruitment session at the university where I'm a postgrad student.

That'll be some more donors in your name.

Cheers, Tom

You don't know me, and I don't know if you will read this, but I wanted you to know, I saw your story on the bbc.news site and I've got round to making that appointment to give blood which I haven't done for ages and I've made a request for bone marrow information and to discuss with the nurse when I'm there. I've thought about this before, but never quite 'got round to it' and I suppose it's about bloody time I did.
I don't think there is anything else I can write, but I hope you get many more of these messages so you know your mission was successful.

Just rescuing one person from the misery that you've been through is a triumph that's worth celebrating. You're giving many people the chance for a longer and happier life. You're going to leave the world a better place than you found it. I hope that you finally get 'lucky' and that this illness allows you the energy to keep on saving lives for as long as possible.

hello
saw you on BBC Breakfast news today, you look so well. i was amazed at how strong you are, i wouldnt be able to keep it together in your situation.

any how whilst watching you I had an idea;

HOW ABOUT AUCTIONING YOUR HAT TO RAISE MONEY FOR ANTHONY NOLAN OR LEUKAEMIA RESEARCH??

the hat is rather famous now, i know i'd bid on it! Let me know what you think about the idea

jo

G'Day Adrian,

I also saw your article on the BBC this morning, you have had a tremendous impact on everyone. I am signing up today and I am sure I wont be the only one.

Thank you for putting together your blog, through the good times and bad and for being honest, you are a true inspiration!

You have made a difference to so many people, keep up the great work, you are a true star shining for everyone, *hugs*!

Belinda

Excellent blog! More power to your fingers! I am 74 and am surprised that the age limits for donating marrow are so low. I had to stop giving blood for a similar reason in my fifties.
John

I was a PBSC donor back in February. It was such an easy thing to do. Put up in a hotel for 5 days to have my injections, all expenses paid. The nurses and staff on the day were great. I still find it strange to comprehend that something I found so easy (and a nice break!) means so much to other people.

You are an inspiration. Awareness about bone marrow donation or any mode of organ donation is pitifully poor and we who are educated on these matters have a duty to propagate this knowledge. Best wishes.

I found your blog via the BBC today, and I felt compelled to comment. I lost my friend Mary to another type of cancer this month. She was the most inspirational person I had ever met. Fun, happy and always found the best in the worst of people. She fought for over six months, and was thoughful for others even when she was leaving us. Now I have found the second most inspirational person, you.
When the time comes, Mary will be waiting wherever we go, you will recognise her by her chuckle and massive and constant cups of coffee. You will make a good team, though she's not to good with the beer.
I had been on the Anthony Nolan register since it started, but never had the priviledge of being a donor.
Thank you.

Hi Adrian,
Having read some of your blog I can safely say that I have never been so humbled in my life. You are an amazing man and someone who I will never forget. I am definitely going to be signing up to the register and will hound others until they do the same! Having noticed others' comments about Todd Bentley and the Florida outpouring I won't go on about it but I would encourage you to check it out - I firmly believe God can heal you and I will be going to the meeting at our church tonight to stand in your place to receive healing on your behalf. I don't want to sound trite in this and I am aware that I am a complete stranger but He cares about you so much and I just wanted to get that across. If you want to get in touch please feel free to email me.
Lizzie x

Hi Adrian

I've just come across your blog today. I've been reading some of the comments and I know there are many people out there who care about you and support the cause you are advocating.

When our journey ends there are possibly three likely options - the lights go out, heaven or hell. Nothing is guranteed. I think guidance comes from Allah and if you want to be guided then ask Him. It's your choice.

I pray you are guided and that this goodness that you leave will testify for you in front of your Creator.

Best Wishes

Farzana

How can I sign up to be a donor?

Adrian,

I read your story earlier today on the BBC News website. I'd never really thought about bone marrow donation before and to be honest haven't given blood before either - there's always been some excuse why not, but never a good one!

Anyway, I've been really inspired by your story and have just signed up online. It would have been selfish not to!

I hope that one day I can have the opportunity to help someone in need.

I'm sorry to hear of your relapse. I hope you can make the most of the coming weeks and hopefully months, not just with this campaign but with the things you want to do for yourself too.

You're an inspiration.

Regards

Tristan

Hi Adrian

Saw you on TV this morning and your story and courage really touched me.

I had a friend, sadly no longer with us, who had an unsuccessful marrow transplant but, as in your case, it allowed him a bit more time.

I'll be signing up to the register (although I may be too old at 45) and urging others to do so too.

Good luck with everything.

Lyn xx

Ditto to Jules

Saw your story on the BBC news site this morning I immediately signed up as a bone marrow donor.

Chalk up another one!

hi adrian

you have amazing strength to write this site the way that you have. your determination, spirit and approach is an absolute lesson to us all. I lost my stepson six years to ALL leukemia and it is so painful watching someone that you love go through that. I have two childre aged 13 and 7 and encourage them every day to accept life as it is and make the best of everything that happens in their lives. I will certainly be encouraging them to register as bone marrow donors as soon as they are able. I wish you all the very best whatever the outcome or prognosis may be and keep smiling. all your family are in my thoughts and prayers for you.

Hi Mate

You made it into our local evening "rag" - rag or no rag you message is out there! Could hardly believe it last night when I was sitting in the car reading through and saw your face - even better was just telling my partners mum about your blog and I was waiting for her in the car!! I have showen her your blog but getting calls every 20 mins or so asking "how do i get to the next page" - she is older and not very internet minded. My own mum started reading your blog last week and when i saw her on sunday she broke down in tears when I asked her how she was getting on reading your story. You have touched so many people and your message is getting out there. I hope your meeting with the MPs goes well - sure it will!

Till the next time

Cheers

derek

I feel quite ashamed - why are we content to live our lives so ill-informed about so many things....because of you that changes for many people today - me included....my appointment is in a weeks time..I will be donating blood AND also bone marrow. Thank you for educating me. Best wishes to you and your family. Stay strong x

Adrian,

I saw you on BBC Breakfast this morning and I am moved by your courage, energy and positivity.

As a gay man it frustrates me that I'm unable to give blood and marrow.
Previously I have refused to lie about my sexuality just to give blood but your story has made me realise that life is worth more than principle.

Consider me as another (secret) sign up and an evangelist to all I meet.

You are an inspirational hero fella,

Gareth

Hi Adrian

Just read the piece about you on BBC News. I've had the forms for the Anthony Nolan Trust in my desk for about 18 months. Just kept putting off completing them. Don't know why.

Well, they're in the post now. Thanks for prompting me. My dad died of leukaemia in 2003, and a cousin of mine died 3 years ago aged 11.

I'm glad you've finally got me moving on this. Good luck in upping the numbers of potential donors.

Abbi
Guernsey

Please do try www.culevit.com

People who had cancer taken this "medicine" and they all improved, many got all clear after a while. Give it a try !! My brother did as our bone marrow did not match.

The Researcher - dr. Gyula Kulcsár, biochemist

Dr. Gyula Kulcsár was born in Nagykanizsa , Hungary in 1951. He graduated from the József Attila University of Szeged, Faculty of Science in 1979 as a chemist. Initially, he worked for the Chemical Institute of the Central Laboratory for Theoretical Research at the Medical University of Pécs , then in 1981 he joined the Biochemistry Institute , where he has worked as a senior lecturer since 1993. He teaches and conducts research there today. He got his PhD in 1998. His colleagues and students consider him an extremely thorough, meticulous person who is very knowledgeable in his special field, a modest scientist who is always receptive to novel things. Medical students elected him “the Best University Lecturerâ€? on several occasions.

In his research work he first turned to the biochemistry of cancer cells in 1987. Following a thorough reading of the medical literature he worked out a new, genuine theory on the anti-tumor defense mechanism of the living body, he then managed to prove the existence of the Passive Anti-tumor Defense System , and he was able to identify the components and describe the defense system's mechanism of action. He used cell and animal experiments to demonstrate that his hypothesis had been correct. He has continually published the results in international journals and presented them at scientific conferences.

In 1998 he was awarded the “Genius Prize� at the 1 st Inventors' Olympic Games and his patent was selected among the key patents granted by the National Patent Office, and it now ranks with the patents of renowned inventors and researchers such as Tivadar Puskás, Albert Einstein, Leó Szilárd and Albert Szent-Györgyi.

He is a member of the Hungarian Society of Biochemistry, the New York Academy of Sciences, the International Society for Preventive Oncology and the European Life Scientist Organization. He felt deeply honored when he learnt that he had been elected a Fellow of the Russian Academy of Medical Technology in 2004.

As a direct result of seeing your story in the paper I have just contacted the National Blood Service in order to become a bone marrow donor.
This is the best tribute I could think of offering you.

After seeing you on the news this morning, I got off my ass & booked in for a blood donation session as I havent been for about a year. I will also be registering as a marrow donor. I cant imagine anyone who saw your story not doing the same.
I cant tell you how much I admire your bravery, not many people would be thinking of others in the same situation. You are really making a difference, thank you so much.

Best Wishes,
Alex

I saw your story this morning on the Breakfast News and felt the least i could do was sign up to be a bone marrow donor; and i have also informed the organisation i work for to publicise this appeal.
Best wishes and thank you

Hi Adrian

As a journalist for the past 44 years I have seen many harrowing moments around this planet but the most agonising have been associated with that blasted and terrifying word leukaemia. I saw you on BBC this morning and despite my advancing years of 62 even a hard bugger like me who has been to wars could not hold back a tear becasue I know what this disease does to young people and their relatives and friends. My son Ribert, now 17 was diagnosed with acute lymfoblastic leukameia when he was 14 and the trauma was awesome. But he fought through all the chemo having tubes inserted in his chest to take the drugs and illness and even tried and even succeded more often than not to perform miracles with his school work. In essence he said f... the Big L and never once complained, he even felt for others far worse than him on the leukameia unit at UCL in London. I have spend days, and months sleeping at his bedside wondering why a healthy young man should suddenly be struck down by an illness that can be a catostrophic shock on all our souls. Robert is now at college and remains in remission but he even watched today in admiration at a young man who knows his living days are numbered yet has the courage to appeal for other sufferers who need bone marrow. You are my hero and keep smiling.

Adrian, heard you on five live this morning and want to thank you for your campaign. Two years ago i applied to go on the register but was told i was too old at 44!! Apparently bone marrow doesn't grow back as it should after 40. One way i can help though is I am a reiki master. I work with many clients on many varying levels. I can send reiki to you if you wish. Just email me. I have included my website address - have a look. Distant reiki enables a reiki practitioner to carry out healing over a distance. This means that they don't have to be in the same room, same town or even same country in order to heal them! it can be literally done long distance because it is only in the physical world that time and distance matter. When healing over a distance, it is the same as if the practitioner is in the same room as the person they are healing. Below is a bit more. It is neither doctrine or dogma nor (as my mum calls it) mumbo jumbo. It may just give you relief from the cacophany of noise and chatterboxes that must surely be going on in your head. The offer is there. In the meantime I send you my prayers.

Carole

We are alive because life force is flowing through us. Life force flows within the physical body though pathways called chakras, meridians and nadis. It also flows around us in a field of energy called the aura. Life force nourishes the organs and cells of the body, supporting them in their vital functions. When this flow of life force is disrupted, it causes diminished function in one or more of the organs and tissues of the physical body.

The life force is responsive to thoughts and feelings. It becomes disrupted when we accept, either consciously or unconsciously, negative thoughts or feelings about ourselves. These negative thoughts and feelings attach themselves to the energy field and cause a disruption in the flow of life force. This diminishes the vital function of the organs and cells of the physical body.

Reiki heals by flowing through the affected parts of the energy field and charging them with positive energy. It raises the vibratory level of the energy field in and around the physical body where the negative thoughts and feelings are attached. This causes the negative energy to break apart and fall away. In so doing, Reiki clears, straightens and heals the energy pathways, thus allowing the life force to flow in a healthy and natural way.

Hi Adrian
I just wanted to say how moving your blog has been. My daughter was diagnosed with ALL a few months before you got ill and reading your blog in some parts seems like reliving our own experiences - although we were unable to find a donor match and have had to rely on chemo and radiotherapy.

You are an incredibly brave man and I wish you all the best over the next few weeks and months. I hope that your campaign to get bone marrow donations talked about in schools and colleges works - if there's anything I can do to help that process please contact me - i'll talk, lobby, email or stuff envelopes - just let me know.

Angela

I hope you stay around to enjoy life a lot longer, Adrian. You've done more for the world already than most people do in 80 years. And I'm so glad you didn't give in to despair when you're obviously such a great person to have around.
As a journalist, I've bookmarked your site and will take every opportunity to tell people how easily they can help.
Incidentally - you look good without hair!
All the very best,
Janet

Adrian,

I saw the article about you on the BBC News website. I was a donor for my brother, who also had leukaemia, after being injected with GCSF and then having the stem cells harvested. The procedure was just some minor discomfort for me - nothing even remotely bad at all. I'm now on the National Blood Service bone marrow register in case I'm ever a match for anyone else needing a donor. For anybody considering whether to register, please do - if you are called it is so easy for you but such a big thing for somone suffering from leukaemia and desparately searching for a donor.

Mark.

rock on adrian i saw u on the news this mornin and it has made me feel much more greatful about life.your have taught me a lesson.thankyou so much don't worry and spend your last few weeks doin what you want.once again Rock on! rachel xxxxxx

I've just registered with the Swiss service, so hopefully I will be on their books pretty soon.
India

Hi Adrian
It has never ceased to amaze me the ignorance amongst most people and the media about Leukaemia and Stem Cell transplants. Normally the only coverage is of kids with ALL and normally it serves only to perpetuate the mthys. Your doing a fantastic job of teaching people about both with your fantastic and very generous blog and, judging by entries above, persuading many to sign up as a potential BM donor. Your aim to get sixth formers taught about it is great.

My wife lost her 6 year fight with AML eleven years ago. I think of her and miss her every day. Leukaemia is such a cruel disease which devastates young adults at random and at exactly the time that life should be great ( I read somewhere around 5000 people a year in the England and Wales are diagnosed with a Leukaemia every year - thats around 13 a day! - 30% will have AML).

There is very little anyone can say to you but be certain that you have touched many, many people with this blog and just by being you - they will be thinking of you.

Tom

Hi! As with so many others I too saw your "Story" today on the BBC!

What can I do to help? I am unable to donate due to my own complex health problems but as I have a health related blog can we link it maybe? If you are happy to drop me a quick message on peggypeg or an email via the contact me link! IF I take a day or two to reply don't give up because I am not too well myself and need some time away to rest and try and get some strength back after surgery which went badly wrong!

Will save your blog link and wait to hear from you soon re linking to your blog!

Chris

I've just stumbled across your blog linked from the glorious BBC website, and it really is an amazing read.
Your story is inspiring and sad, and it's amazing how courageous you are in sharing this with the world- hopefully it will generate what you want, for more people to be aware of what they can do to help those who are suffering.
I'll definitely be bookmarking this page.
All the best
x

Adrian - I also saw you on BBC breakfast and I have been reading your blog all morning.

I cannot even attempt to understand what you have been through but in some srtange way I can understand your decision to stop having treatment. Having had a close family member make the same decision I know how difficult it is. However, he was able to enjoy his time with his friends and family and, by the end, was very philosophical about his experience.

My heart goes out to you and I wish you the best of luck in your campaign to get people to sign up as bone marrow donors. There certainly needs to be more eductaion about it - I really had very little idea about it until I read your blog.

My thoughts are with you, and I will keep reading your blog!

Claire

Adrian,

Devastating news, but I can only applaud your courage and convictions.

I have posted something on my blog and would urge others to do the same and raise awareness of the need for more volunteers.

If there is anything else us bloggers can do, then let us know.

Sage

Adrian

Having watched the bbc news this morning I was moved by your story. I got into school and logged onto your blog. Being a teacher I am meant to be teaching the kids, but they have been given some practical work to be getting on with themselves.
I have now ready every single blog I can see and I have come to the conclusion that you are one of the bravest people I have ever heard of, infact the bravest. You have been through so much, your so strong inside !
Your a wondeful Human being. I hope all these kind words from everyone can show you just how much the british public can pull together for someone who deserves so much more from life.

I will continue to read more, and i hope your visit with the PM went well !

Chris

Adrian,

Saw you this morning on the BBC and have since read through your blog. I could never be as brave as you. Have just signed up to be a doner, rekon you will have saved many a life with all the people you have got through to.

God bless

Charlie

Adrian,

Just read about you on the Beeb website, you are one gutsy guy!

We're British but live in the US. A couple of years ago a good friend of ours got cancer. I searched around the local area and found the nearest bone marrow donor centre. Being British and potential mad cows, we cannot give blood. So when I asked about donating bone marrow, I'm glad to say common sense prevailed. The person in charge said "If a patient is given the option of having matching bone marrow donated by someone who has a tiny chance of CJD, or being faced with no cure, they should be the ones to make the choice". So I'm very glad to say I'm on the donor list. It was just a gesture and didn't do our friend any good, but I'm glad I did it if it will help others.

Out of an approximate population of 250,000 - 300,000 in the local area, they have a list of about 9,000 donors. Better than nothing but still pretty paltry. When I've mentioned it to people, they are concerned "its a painful procedure"....

If you feel up to it, have a look here - http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?t=291990&page=50

I will add a link on there and another forum I go on to your blog and your story. The least I can do is help you spread the word.

From what I read on the other posts, you are already having an effect on those donor numbers. Keep up the good work :)

jx

Hi Adrian,

I was unaware of you until I saw you on the news yesterday. Some people get called heros, footballers, Paul McCartney, Elvis etc. Well they can't touch you mate, your family and friends must be so proud to know you and what you are achieving now will be of great comfort to them if the worst happens. Usually I feel pity for people in your position, but this time I don't - don't get me wrong, I feel terribly sad that an obviously wonderful person is in your position - but you seem to have thrived because of it... What impact might you have had without this? Not many people live a life even a fraction as meaningful as your life has become, what you are doing now and what you are achieving is worth several normal lifetimes. I hope you know that and remember it at all times.

Congratulations on being such an inspiration to so many people. What is better, a long and pointless life or a short and inpirational one? I have my fingers crossed for you and I will be keeping up to date on your blog, and I will be registering as a bone marrow donor. You may have saved one life by going on the news when I was watching last night?!

I hope your meeting with the PM went well, and once more I offer my congratulations for having the strength, vision, capability and personality to turn this horrible situation around and make it into something so positive.

Inspirational is not a word that even begins to describe you.

Mark

Again, I saw you on BBC News24 this morning and just wanted to wish you well...
You're an inspiration to us all and a true example of a real man (I don't want to use the word 'hero'). I don't know how you have found the strength to do what you have been doing, and it brings life into perspective.
You have made a difference and you will always continue to make a difference.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Chris

hey just saw you on the bbc lunch time news and wanted to just say that what your doing is amazing and keep up the effort and i will be heading down to your event at tiger tiger on may 31st

Hi Adrian.

You are an inspiration.

I work for a small publishing company - we are bringing out Wilf' Lunn's (also Huddersfield!) biography in June. If you would like your blog professionally published as a book, free of charge in order to raise money for the Anthony Nolan Trust, please email me. We would love to help.

Cathi

I saw your story today on the BBC News site and would like to wish you all the very best for living your life to the max in what must be an extremely hard and tiring time.

You seem to have great courage - a wonderful example of someone that faced with your situation has the opportunity to campaign and make people realise that they can help others. I watched my step father go through massive chemo and be faced with the same outcome 2 years ago and he, like you, did not give up.

Having recently had a friend that went through major chemo that did not work, and then subsequently Anthony Nolan finding a transplant at the last minute in Australia she is also working to promote bone marrow transplants to her friends. There is a day on 31 May in London at Tiger Tiger in London where they are taking blood from people that wish to become potential donors.

Having heard so many scare stories about how bone marrow is taken and having done a bit of research myself and seeing that it is not scary at all I cannot understand why more people do not sign up.

Hopefully with campaigners such as yourself and more public awareness of cases where suitable donors have not been found due to the shortage of suitable donors it may spur the rest of the significantly lazy public into action.

I wish you all the very best and thank you for re-enforcing the need for people to get up and help each other.

Hannah

Mate,
Heard your story on BBC news this morning and followed the link from their website. That aim, up there? Top paragraph? You've done it, seriously. Even though I give blood, I didn't find the leaflets about bone marrow informative enough, they were one of the things that scared me off. Another person going on the register here. With two friends who are currently going through chemo (one for breast cancer, one for neuro), you have both broken me and inspired me.

~Cio

Hi Adrian!

As others I have just seen your story on the BBC news.

I thought about bone marrow donating a while ago but haven't done anything about it since. I've just emailed the national blood service to find out more and hope I can help someone out there!

Beth
x

Hey Adrian
Just wanted to let you know that I'm off to donate bone marrow and blood after reading your blog. Your mission's working dude.
Plus you're bloody gorgeous. Will be thinking about you and hope to read some more amazing writing.
Love
Ali
xxxxxxx

I just checked and i'm already a donor but will hastle my friends and family to sign up too!

Johanna x

Hi Adrian,
the news about the transplant failure is a bit of a beggar, but what the heck, you'll be in some darned good company when you upstairs! Say hello to R.S.M. Lemons for us,and me granny, mate! What a party there will be when you get there!
I am on the Bone Marrow register, and I have been a Plasma Donor, but now do whole blood because my veins rebelled. This was all because of my gran, who as a former nurse, was expected to be a donor,so when she retired, she told me it was my turn to take over and I didn't dare refuse or she would have handbagged me for sure! I wouldn't mind, but needles are not my favourite item! It is because of people like you and her that we are what we are, and that is better for having you in the world!
My little lad, who is 12 says that he will do it when he is old enough after seeing you on the telly, and he doesn't like needles, but he says you are cool enough for him to do it!
I am not a sentimental type and I gather that neither are you, but we both believe in doing what's right and you are making tons of folk think about doing the bone marrow thing, so that in my books is an excellent job and well done!
Keep it up, and so will we, because if good will alone could make you well, then you would be healthy again. We are routing for you, Thanks for being honest about the whole thing and we won't mind you getting mad about it, nobody's perfect!

Adrian,

I saw you on the BBC 1pm news half an hour ago.

This is just to let you know I have contacted the Anthony Nolan Trust to get registered as a donor.

Thanks for being an inspiration,

Tine

Hi Adrian
I wish I had come across your blog earlier. You are a real inspiration and someone that I aspire too. I have Hodgkins and have had both an auto and allo transplant after relapsing last year.
I am awaiting the dreaded GVHD.
I have been spreadng the message about Bone marrow donations and how the one person who did it for me has given me a new chance.
If there is anyway I can help you carry on your quest (along with spreading the word) then please let me know.
I also respect your decision on no further treatment - if I relapse again I will need to make the same decision. I hope you enjoy the time you have left and have time to spend it all with those close to you.
Katie

I've just seen your story on BBC1 news, I wanted to congratulate you on the excellent work of getting the word out about Bone Marrow Donation.

I am 32 and have recently been diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anaemia (a relatively rare disease), this is a disease of the bone marrow which prevents it from producing enough platelets, red and white blood cells. It has a high incidence of leading to Leukaemia. The only real cure is a bone marrow transplant.

Prior to having this illness, I didn't even know that bone marrow donation was something that could be done. Thankfully for me, my brother is a match. We have looked into the donation process and it is relatively easy for the donor, as you said just like giving blood.

Great job on building up awareness, we need more people like you.

Hi Adrian.. I was very moved to read your blog and wanted so very much to send yu some love and the biggest hugs my dear friend .. what you are doing is tremendous and will truly make a difference and a mark .. BRAVO ..
Peace and light Lib x x I suffer from serious heart problems, heart failure and acute angina.. you have my support and love Lib x x

Hi Adrian.. I was very moved to read your blog and wanted so very much to send yu some love and the biggest hugs my dear friend .. what you are doing is tremendous and will truly make a difference and a mark .. BRAVO ..
Peace and light Lib x x I suffer from serious heart problems, heart failure and acute angina.. you have my support and love Lib x x

i used to give blood years ago and after the birth of last child (2003) went back to carryon but rules have changed and cannot give due to a transfusion from 1st child's birth.
please people, if you can donate, the do so. it doesnt hurt at all

Hi...Never thought of doing this before, but I saw your piece on news and will definitely think more about it now. Sure this will inspire lots of people to do the same.

Adrian

Saw you on BBC Breakfast this morning and just wanted to say well done, it's an amazing thing that you're doing. Lost my girlfriend to AML back in 2004, but just like her you seem to be facing things with a great deal of bravery and dignity. Couldn't agree more that people need to be better educated about bone marrow transplants and the importance of getting on a donor register. Keep fighting fella...

Mike

Hello Adrian,

I saw you on "breakfast" this morning and think its amazing what you do. I am from Holland and not at all clear where to go here..but i have just watched the clip and will now look into it.

Best wishes

Helen

Hi Adrian,

My heart goes out to you and your family, its a shame there are not a few more people like you in this world, wanting to help others after the nightmare you are going through.
I myself have Leaukemia CML I have to live on Glivec which is a form of Chemo, and the side effects are shit, but not as bad as your chemo. I have had my stem cells out, and I fully agree with you, it is so easy to be a stem cell donor or even a bone marrow donor, just a bit uncomfortable. We have done a couple of bone marrow clinics with Lindsay at Anthony Nolan, one was at a football ground, and it is amazing how many men are frightened to have the test. I wrote to the prime minister to get people more aware of being bone marrow donors but to no avail. I hope your meeting today will go very good and make people aware what is involved with bone marrow etc.
I feel that if someone has had this in their family then they try to help others because it brings it home to them, but if you have never dealt with Cancer then you are not aware of what is involved. So you campaigning about it will help a lot.
As I said before my heart goes out to you, you are so brave, and I hope with all my heart you manage to do what you want to do.

My thoughts are with you and your family.

Love Di

Hi Adrian,

i just read a fair bit of your blog for the first time having read a news story about your bone marrow crusade on the bbc website.

i was one of those people who had never really considered donating bone marrow for the exact reason that i thought it would be horrific. Than you for putting me right.

I wanted to let you know that as a direct result of spending a bit of time reading your blog i am now seriously considering join the bone marrow register.

Your story is very sad, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and friends. I very much hope that your mission to try and recruit more bone marrow doners to the national register is successful. i can't imagine anyone having much of an excuse for not doing it after reading your blog. All the best.
Anna

Dear Adrian,

Your determination is inspirational. I joined the Anthony Nolan register, via a recruitment drive at my university and would recommend other young people to do so. I was surprised that on the consent form it did not ask for my NHS ID number, but understand that it is separate from the NHS.Thought having an NHS number or National Insurance number would make it easier to trace people, who moved about UK.

I give blood, ocassionally, but hate the needles, but after reading part of your blog, think I will try to go more regularly, as I understand how a blood donation can really help people.

I think raising awareness and encouraging more donors is a fantastic legacy and that targetting schools is an ideal place to start.

Good luck with your future, however long or short it may be. You will never be forgotten.

Alex, Postgraduate student, Sheffield, UK

Hi Adrian,
I was one of the successes of stem cell transplant fourteen years ago but I don't suppose you want to know that. It gave me time to research alternative treatments and recent work (Toohey Cancer Letters 2008) shows that simple treatments may help you. The original work was done in 1982 by Poydock but no-one believed it!! A version of Vit C called dehydroascorbate singles out cancer cells for apoptosis (death of cell). It is possible to take this as palmitoyl ascorbate dissolved in olive oil. 200mg five times daily is suggested together with 5 times 500mg curcumin. It is possible to provide you with these free of charge if you are interested to try. It may be you are already on them - if so keep up the good work. Good luck. If you want to try them please email me.

Hi Andrian,

just seen you on the News and came straight to your site. Unfortunately I can't donate at the moment because I have just had a baby. But due to your campaign as soon as she is 12 months old I will.

Thanks for making me more aware.

Caroline.X

Hi Adrian,

I saw your interview on Calender last night, I just wanted to say good look and hope you got somewhere with the interviews with the MP'S, I will be watching tonight! You are very strong and brave and it's amazing what you are doing, I know how tough it is as I had Osteosarcoma last year. I'm doing my best to raise awareness about Bone Cancer, stay strong and all the best.

Katie Brooman.

Hi Adrian -

On the slim offchance you're not thoroughly fed up by now with everyone saying how full of admiration we are for you, wanted to add my voice to the hundreds expressing how moved they've been by what you're doing.

People with terminal illnesses are often irritated by being labelled "brave" or "courageous" given they have no choice in having to face the illness, but in your case - having actually made a conscious choice to spend the time you have on helping others, rather than, as would be entirely understandable, being more concerned with yourself - surely bravery is precisely the right word.

I'm yet another person to sign up for the bone marrow register as a direct result of your appeal. Not sure if you're keeping count, but it's pretty safe to say that if even one in ten people doing so go on to make donations that are used successfully, your actions will directly result in saving scores of lives and therefore infinitely improve hundreds, given the effect on the relatives and friends of those saved. Multiply that by 1000s if the campaign results in improved registers and ongoing education in schools.

Obviously you know all this but it bears repeating!

Other posters alluded to religion, and surely, whatever awaits all of us at the end of this life, if there's a better place to go to, every religion agrees that it's selfless actions like these that carry you closer to it.

Very best wishes,

Dan Clark
London

Dear Adrian,
Most people in your situation would just curl up and die ... but you are determined to do something to make a difference before you die. Your courage and determination are truly inspirational.
I don't know if you have any religous beliefs, but I believe that God has a purpose for each one of us and whether you have found a personal relationship with God or not, you seem to have found your purpose.
I'm too old to become a bone marrow doner, though I do still give blood. I'm sure many younger folk will make a commitment to donate thanks to your campaigning, and as a result lives will be saved.
God bless you.
Sandra

Adrian,

Just read your story on the bbc website and I thought I had to respond.

First of all I must say well done for being so brave and determined to do something for others. I am a firm believer in God and I believe in miracles. There is a programme taking place at the London excel on Friday 27th June from 6p.m. http://www.loveworldchristiannetwork.org/ is the website for more info. I believe there is a miracle for you. God Bless

im going to have a bone marrow transplant for acute myeloid leukaemia M3 in august and i am very nervous and information and or advice wud b gladly appreciated...
by the way Adrian u r inspirational

i wish u all good things

yasmin

Dear Adrian,

Without fear, there is no courage. You must have known great fear and now have great courage.

I hope you have months and years with your family and friends, and when death finally comes it is swift and painless. That is all any of us can hope for. Let us hope your story causes ripples in the pond, and that many of us register to donate bone -marrow.

I wish you well, and that you find peace

sari

Just picked up on this blog after seeing you on the BBC news today.

I'm an ex-nurse so I have an appreciation of what you have been through.

I am on both UK marrow donor lists, got called for blood tests about 5 years ago for a possible match but I wasn't a good enough match.

I didn't realise that bone marrow donation was so straight forward in most cases. I looked after a few people that had had "old style" harvests where the marrow is removed from hip bones etc and they all said they felt like they'd had a bit of a fight. That wouldn't have put me off donating but I'm glad most people get an easier option.

Totally understand your decision to stop treatment - only you know what you've been through and only you know if you can face it all again. I am humbled that you are choosing to spend your precious time publicising bone marrow donation.

Take care,

Ian

Hello Adrian!

I just saw you on the ITV News...I think what you are doing is fantastic and the strength you have is unbelievable...you seem so spirited and such a good person! You are a real kick up the arse for some people! Good for you!

At my university, every 6 months we have the Welsh Blood Service come to take our blood and it is getting better and better each time....also Last time I gave blood I registered to donate bone marrow....I hope that one day I will be able to help someone who needs me!

Good Luck and Get Well Soon...

Lots of love...Mel xxx

Adrian, I really admire what you are doing and I wish you well. I hope that you inspire more people to become donors. I gave blood for many years and would have been happy to be a bone marrow donor, unfortunately, I am now excluded on medical grounds which means I am unable to help in that way but I will encourage everyone I know to donate so that it may help others out there.

Hi Adrian,

I've just seen you on ITV's lunchtime news.

My mum went through chemo last year and, as a result, I am now a blood donor and I'm doing the 'Race for Life' in July.

I'm on the 'Anthony Nolan' register, but I'm sorry to say that I didn't notify them of my new address after moving, and 'Keep meaning to'

Seeing you today has given me the much needed 'kick up the backside'!!! Thank you!

I'm due to give blood tomorrow night, and I promise you, I will re-register, and I'll spread the word amongst my friends.

You're doing a fantastic job in raising awareness and I wish you the best of luck,

Alison x

i have read your blog and was very touched by it, it has made me want to help others in the same situation as you are. but i am unsure how old i have to be before i can donate. can u help answer my question lol
all the best
chelsea
xx

I came across your blog by accident. It hit me hard. My husband of 34 yrs passed almost 2 yrs ago from AML 2 weeks after being diagnosed. My prayers and thoughts are with you. You have such courage. I wish I could have known you in person-what a wonderful person you are. Know that what you are doing will live on long after we are all gone. My thoughts are with you, your family & friends during this time.

Hi Adrian

Just to say that i have literlly just switched off the ITV lunch time news and your appeal touched me.

I personally have had very little experience of cancer, thankfully, but i am very aware of how awful it is for the sufferers and their friends and family.

I wanted to let you know that, i think you are an incredably brave person and i think that you mission will work. At the moment, i am 17 and cannot donate yet, but i assure you now, as soon as I can i will sign up. A few of my freind have a donar card now, but i willmake sure that people realise that, as you say, bone marrow donations are not as painful as people first think.

Well done is all i can say, you are a true hero to many of your followers, and many of the people who will benifit as a result of you appeal :)

Mary

I have seen you on the lunchtime news today as I am working at home. I immediately logged on to read your truly amazing blog and have the utmost admiration for your strength, courage, humour and honesty throughout. I just hope that people will make the effort to register and someday be able to make a difference to the outcome of somebody's illness. Thinking of you, and sending lots of love your way xx

hi ade, watching u on gmtv this morning and reading the comments on yr blog has broke my heart. to think that i have thought about becoming a doner for a few yrs and have done nothing about it. now, (shamefully) i can say that i will make it my duty to make myself a doner. thank you for the wake up call that i needed and i hope that millions of people feel and do the same thing. may god be with you all my love, ema xxxxxxxxxxxx

Adrian what can I say that others haven't said already…nothing because I think you yourself have said it all so well!
My son was diagnosed at 22 months with a terminal brain tumour...I was so angry that there was nothing I could do for him. Then I read about bone marrow donation it wouldn't help my son but may be I could help some one else's son. So I joined up only to be told that even though I was a potential match for someone I was too over weight...I prefer buxom my self but I digress.
I encourage everyone to become a donor the honour of being able to help another human being there can be no greater privilege. What a gift to be able to give and all for a moment of fleeting discomfort.
As for my son he's 22 years old now has loads of problems blind, epileptic and so on but he's still here. What I want to say Adrian if I may be so presumptuous is fight…fight back! I know you reach a stage when hospital rules your life and you're weary to your very soul but please keep going the world needs people like you in it.

Thinking of you and your family.
Pauline and family

Hi Adrian,

I have been on the register for about 2 years and recently donated stem cells via the PBSF method last month. My stuff went to a young man aged 20, that's all I know. I hope he is doing well.

I have to say I admire your bravery but I just want to say that being a donor is not without it's side effects and it introduces you to a whole range of emotions and experiences that are completely unknown from before. There are some unpleasant side effects from the PBSF method despite what you may have heard, experienced or been told.

Having said that, in the scheme of things, they are small and insignificant and everything I went through will be well worth it if my recipient goes on to have a complete recovery and a full and successful life.

I hope your story does inspire others to donate even though for you it is too late.

I would donate again if called to in an instant and I have been honoured and privileged to have helped my guy and given him a chance of life. There is no greater feeling of satisfaction and no greater gift that I can give.

I've just watched you on the news today and decided to take a look at your blog. I am now in floods of tears after reading of all the bad luck you have had with both your illness and your girlfriend leaving. However I also find it amazing at how positive and brave you are despite everything. What an inspiration you are.

I'm already a blood donor and have thought about being a bone marrow donor in the past but felt really worried about having a needle put into my bones. After seeing your blog, none of it seems as bad as I first thought and I'm now seriously considering it. I just wish that we could all make you better.

If we become bone marrow donors, do we have to be prepared to accept both methods of donating or could we just donate through the use of that blood machine you showed the video of? Apologies for seeming stupid here, I'm still not totally clued up on all of this.

Dude,

I'm still in awe of your PR whoreness, and checking on here shows that you could give Max Clifford a run for his money.

I'm so proud of what you are doing and the amount of people signing up is incredible. Keep up the good work dude, when you're done with Gordon give me a ring. My mates and I are still gutted that you dropped us last night to see Parliament. I never thought a bloke would choose politics over me ;-)

xxx

Hello Adrian

Just came across your story on the BBC website. I can't join the bone marrow register because of my own annoying disability, but a friend of mine had a bone marrow transplant last year so I know exactly how important it is for people to join the register. Although I can't join myself, I will spread the word, starting with putting a link to your blog on my blog!

Remember, it's not over 'til the fat lady sings!

Very best wishes
Kate

Hi Adrian

My stomach turned over in knots this morning when I saw you on TV. In July 2003, on the 8th of July to be exact, I received the news that I had AML. I was told at the age of 48 that I was fit and strong and could beat it. I was confused. I didn't understand what the doctors were telling me. I had cancer. I was going to die. I empathise with all that you have been through and I took the same decision after all my treatment, that should it come back again, I would pass on further treatment. Thank God I am still here and I have not had to make that decision. I have lived to see 1 Grandchild and 2 more on the way. I am glad for my extra time and every extra day is a bonus. I have faced death and hope when the time comes I can do it again. I appauld you. You are very brave. God be with you.

Audrey

I just read your story on the bbc website this morning, and sent off my registration to the Anthony Nolan trust an hour ago. You're definitely reaching people! :-)

Hey Adrian,

Just seen your article on bbc news and was moved by your plight. There is a woman in America who had luekemia and was given months to live, but she was able to heal herself. She has since went on to reveal how she did this to the world, her technique is called theta healing and her website is www.thetahealing.com. I have received this type of healing for an illness and can testify that it works. I strongly recommend you tkae a look at her website and if you have any queries to contact me.

Love,

Ryan

Hi Adrian,

About to link up to your blog and campaign from the new Hounslow site in London, I'm the new web editor, and just read some of your posts and saw you on the beeb this morning.

Only polite to say hello, I thought.

This is the first time I have seen someone be completely honest about how utterly depressing and scary cancer must be, it makes for amazing reading and you deserve all the credit, awards and meetings with the
PM (is he as useless as he seems?) you are getting. Everyone knows someone who has had cancer and yet hardly anyone knows what it's like dealing with having your future stolen.

I promise I will become a donor,

Lucy

You are an inspiration to us all
xx

Dear Adrian,

What a wonderful, gorgeous and lovely man you are.

Your family and friends are very lucky to know you and be part of your life.

Thank you for sharing your story, we are all humbled for reading it.

I wish you peace. Take good care and enjoy every minute of each day.

Best Wishes
Michelle.

Hi Adrian,

I saw you on breakfast TV this morning, and it was actually quite ironic. Why? Because tomorrow afternoon I am running a recruitment Clinic with the Anthony Nolan Trust!! It's being held at Smallbrook Surgery, Warminster, Wilts from 3-6pm (sorry, had to put in a 'plug') and anyone who's read your blog will know the criteria. I did one back in 2002, which was brilliant and very well attended, and my brother was recently approached as a possible donor, which prompted me into contacting the Trust to do another Clinic. It's an extremely worthy cause, and I am more than happy to provide my phlebotomy services to the Trust, not just for the Clinic tomorrow, but for any that they do in my local area.

I admire you greatly and how you are campaigning to try to get more awareness of this life saving register. More donors are needed, always, and I don't think it's too much to ask. One of my colleagues, who is also helping at the clinic tomorrow, had her transplant in 1986 thanks to the Trust, so it IS worthwhile.

You keep up the fantastic work you are doing. You are an absolute inspiration.

With very best wishes,

Nikki xxx

Chalk up another one.
My daughter is joining me on Friday to give blood and get signed up for Bone marrow donations and a donor card as well.
You are an inspiration.
Thanks mate.

Hi Adrian, saw your interview this morning on the BBC and was very moved. Your family must be so proud of you. I wish you well with your fight.I'm too old to sign up as a donor now, unfortunately. After what you said about the German system, I'm e-mailing your blog address and details about all the contacts to my daughter. She is the head of the faculty of science and maths at a 0 - 18 science specialist college. I know that the sort of info. you mentioned that needs passing on to young people would fit perfectly into the science curriculum for 14 - 18 year olds. I've found teacher packs available for downloading, so we'll do our best to get the word out.
Sally

Hi

My step-grandfather is suffereing badly from Leaukemia and possibly something else that is making his health deteriorate.

So i have been thinking as a healthy person i should be donating. seeing you on the news this morning and watching the video of how its done (i had no idea how they did it!!) has confirmed my wishes to donate and i will be looking in to it!

Your mission in comming true - thanks for giving me more information.

Good luck X X X X X

The courage you have and your efforts to help others is to be commended.

Stay strong, fight for every moment and lay your sword down when you are ready

hi adrian hope u are doing ok and keep up the good work carol xx ps hope hi see this email

Your an inspiration to everyone. I wish you all the luck in what ever corner you turn next.

Oi oi saveloy,

Now then, reading your blog has certainly given me the opportunity to pull myself towards myself before i shit myself !!!

You're a real inspiration dude, i used to work at the Marsden in Surrey, and yeah i'm aware of all the ins and outs, ups and downs and stuff.

I work in A&E now, nursing, and i think i will speak to the Matron about the register and raising awareness, it's a tricky environment to start talking about BMT's, however we do it for solid organ donation, and have posters up for that.And of course we have to beat the Germans, ha, just kidding.

Adrian, thanks for sharing so much here, and thank you for kicking me up with arse with your story.

I hope your journey continues peacefully, and through you,i hope most folk who read your blog, can get up off their arses and start doing something practical and help to start making some changes for others. That's what it's all about, helping others.

Brotherly love and plenty of light to you Mr.

Dear Adrian,

It must be comforting to you to see that so many people are signing up to donate through hearing your story. You are a brave young man and my thoughts are with you.

Lisa

Hello Adrian,
I saw you on the BBC Breakfast news channel today and I want to let you know that you are such an INSPIRATION. I was signed up to be a bone marrow donor a number of years ago but forgot all about it until now. But I PROMISE YOU that I will follow up on my registration and encourage people I know to do likewise and register. I am too like every one else very sorry to learn that your diagnosis has returned, but I would like to encourage you, and I know you have been told this before but if you are not already 'PRAY'. I am not telling you about a religion, I am simply trying to encourage you to use your faith and let you know from first hand experience that PRAYER WORKS and GOD REALLY DOES ANSWER PRAYERS. I would kindly like to ask you to log on to WWW.UCKG.ORG when you have the time and read real testimonies of different people who have experienced what I am telling you about and if you like I can try to arrange for you to meet or talk with them. The choice is entirely up to you, but please know this and I know this may sound crazy but you don't have to give up on your own life just yet, through your FAITH and PRAYERS you can be healed, simply start to believe this each and everyday despite what you see and what you have been told. I will be joining the many people who have told you they are and will be praying for you each day, and also pray that you will use your faith and do the very same.
May the campaign you are doing be a very great success.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY

Hi Adrian

Just watched BBC Breakfast.

I thought about bone marrow donation a while ago, but never did anything about it.

After seeing you this morning, I read some of your blog entries and what a truely inspirational and courageous person you are!

I am now going to find out how to register as a donor straighaway.

Take care, and good luck in your campaign.

Louise xx

Hi Adrian,
I have just seen your info on the BBC website and as a result have just read your blog.
I really knew nothing about leukemia until now so rest assured that you are doing something right!
I couldn't pass by without saying anything. You are an amazing man and your strength and honesty are truly inspirational.
I want you to know that I am sending you positive thoughts and love from Canada.
Moment to moment..............

Hi Adrian

God Bless you, my neice is 27 years old and has a four year old daughter last August she was diagnosed with terminal cancer of the colon,ovaries,liver & lungs. She is fighting but the chemo crap is relentless as you described. God Bless the both of you LIFE is so unfair you are both far far too young.

TAKE CARE & KEEP FIGHTING XX

Hi Adrian

God Bless you, my neice is 27 years old and has a four year old daughter last August she was diagnosed with terminal cancer of the colon,ovaries,liver & lungs. She is fighting but the chemo crap is relentless as you described. God Bless the both of you LIFE is so unfair you are both far far too young.

TAKE CARE & KEEP FIGHTING XX

I've been reading your blogs for quite a while now but have never wanted to comment incase I said something ailly or patronising but now I have to say something. I have been reading this blog regularly and have always looked forward to the next one even if its been bad. I cannot imagine what you are going through and my heart truely does go out to your friends and family. I've read some of your blogs and laughed so hard it hurt and other times, like your last blog, i've cried so hard it hurt. You are a real inspiration and I was so upset to hear that you have decided not to carry on with treatment. I understand and respect that decision but it must have been so hard. You are in my thoughts and I just hope you know what an incredible person you are xxx Nicci xxx

ello,

I saw you on BBC Breakfast this morning and I had the urge to get in touch. I was diagnosed with AML in July 2004 then spent the next year in hospital as my immune system kept refusing to come back. After my first treatment it took a month, after the fifth, it took 3 months!!

Anyway, I understand exactly what you're going through. Fortunately for me it went away purely due to the chemo and I didn't need a transplant. I say fortunately as no-one in my family ( similarly, there's no history of cancer in mine either) was a match. They were tested very simply the way you've been explaining. Even my sisters in Northern Ireland were able to send their sample even though I was in Cheltenham General at the time.

Most of my family then put their names down for blood donation and even a couple for the Anthony Nolan trust.

With regards to your treatment, I think 50% of the fight is in your head, which you seem to be winning. I've seen too many people give up and just think they're going to die so that's it. Not me, too many things I wanted to do, see , experience. Even though it sent me a bit barmy being in there and I was too tired to do much, I still kept at it. Exercise for me consisted of getting out of bed and hanging on to it while I shuffled round from one side to the other. Not much, but it made sure that my lungs were working properly and not so many bouts of pnemonia.

I'm sorry to hear that you don't want any more treatment. I know they say there would only be a 20% chance of working but I was given a 50/50 chance of making it , with only 2 weeks to live. They also said there was a 99.9% chance of no kids and my friend I was in hospital with has since had twins and I've since found out I can have kids after all. Don't just accept everything they tell you. I know they're the experts but they can be wrong sometimes like in my case. Knowledge is power and all that malrchy.

In closing, all I'm saying is don't give up. It is your choice - you can listen to the ramblings of some nutty irish bird or accept the 'inevitable'

All the best :D

Wow you have had a lot of feedback! Saw you today on the news you really are amazing and inspiring got really excited when I saw you. Well done

Henny

Hello, I saw you on BBC and Five news today, I think your idea of educating school leavers about bone marrow donation is a fantastic idea. I run an organisation brightening the lives of seriously ill children (we feature them on our website www.postpals.co.uk and invite members of the public to send cheery messages to them) and have seen kids flourish who simply wouldn't still be here if it wasn't for a donor, sadly some haven't made it but it gave them another chance at life. I'm always trying to persuade people to join and am often shocked at how little people know about it.

Keep up the great work!!

Viks

Wow! Adrian, you have blown my socks off. Until an hour ago I had never read a blog, let alone commented on one, never given a second thought about bone marrow and certainly didn't know you could donate it as easily as blood!

I saw your story on the Press Gazette site, and then ten minutes later your smile was staring up at me from the BBC News Home Page - so I think your message is getting out!

I am know going to forward this link to all I know!

You are an inspiration! It's hard to know what to write to a 26 year old guy in your shoes, so I send you godspeed - as I am sure that your campaign is the start of something that will continue to make a big impact in perpetuity.

Namaste
Amora

Ive been reading you for a while but never comented.
I think you are such an amazing person and what you are doing is brilliant.
I have never really given any thought to being a bone marrow donor (with the myths of the pain kind of putting me off) but im definately going to think long and hard about it as i give blood as often as possible to try and help others and if this could help others too then it has to be worth it.
Much love. You are in my thoughts. Take Care
Sarah

Truly inspirational, your positive outlook has left a deep impression on me.

Thank you for taking your time to appear on tv like this, i'm certain you have helped many others, directly through your efforts to raise awareness for bone marrow donors and for those who are simply inspired by your efforts.

Hi Adrian,

Saw you on BBC news this morning, you came across really well and i really think what you are doing is going to make such a difference.
Hope the meeting with the PM went well - fill us in on the details soon

All the best Katherine and Dave Gibson x

Your courage and determination to educate others is inspirational. Thank you for sharing your story with us - journalism at it's personal best.

My husband and I have been on the Anthony Nolan register for nearly 15 years now and hope that one day we will be able to help someone.

I hope you're able to spend this time doing what is most important to you.

Cheers

Adrian,

I just wanted to let you know that your efforts are working. I saw you on BBC news this morning and have today arranged my blood donation appointment where I will be registering to donate bone marrow.

all my very best, Simon.

hi adrian would just like to say what an inspiring person you are.
i am looking after my father at the moment for the past two years he has been suffering from myelodysplasia, his conditon has progressed to stage two which means not only does he have three units of blood every two weeks but has just completed his first lot of home chemo which i have been injecting him with twice a day it has been hard watching him lose weight and i wounder how much longer i have with him so each day has to be special. i do hope your plan for education takes off i know my children are well educated about all of the cancers good luck maureen X

I will certainly look into being a bone marrow donor after reading your blog and hearing your appeal.

I admire your courage and wish you all the best.

Saw you this morning on BBC. I got tested when Anthony Nolan trust first started which means I am now an 'old chap'.
So just a couple of questions (the asnswers might help
1/ Are the early records still available and used and
2/ Am I too old to help - I hope not

Well done today, let's hope you get some of the decision maker to get up and listen

Good luck, where ever you end up!!

Hi Adrian,

How are you going? Hope you are well and happy. I have just seen you appeared on air on BBC News. It was great to hear that you went to see the PM today to discuss your appeal. I am very touched and appreciate very much for your work and energy.

I personally have family members who had or have cancer and I know the pain you, your loved ones and friends are going through. Anyway, you have made up your mind for your rest of your time (you will have longer time to live on, trust me if you believe in YOURSELF).

Do, play, eat and drink whatsoever you want to if you are not feeling too sick, tired or fatigue.

I am very sorry to hear about your conditions but you are a real role model! Well done!

I would love to meet up with you and Poppy if you two are free. Please drop me an e-mail and I shall reply to you as soon as I can.

Good luck and all the best.

Regards,

HuddersTree xo

Thank you.

I have started up a facebook group and am going to organise a mass bone marrow donation day, where people can come along and register. As I have lost a close friend to something similar.
I hope to get 2000 people and make a difference. Its allready got 40 members in 10 mins! Thank you for inspiring me.

Hi Adrian
You are an amazing person,and I wish you all the best.Sadly we lost our 14year old daughter Chloe to cancer Desmoplastic Round Cell Sarcoma on December 8th 2007,she carried on with a normal life for 11months defying the doctors predicitions, so never give up hope.

Hi Adrian, from another baldy!

While I don't have the same type of cancer as you (mine's advanced breast cancer.. spread to liver, brain, bones & lungs), I can relate to alot of the things I've read in your blog.
I haven't read it all, but have bookmarked it, and fully intend to.

I'm a young 'un too, at 32 (29 when first diagnosed, which is considered very young for breast cancer). Though I don't feel so young these days!

I know the feeling of having to live day-to-day, when you'd really hoped to be able to plan for a future, a family.. a life. Sometimes it's unbearable.

I didn't think I'd still be here now, after being really poorly for three months, from christmas. But I am, and I try to make the most of it. Though that's difficult at times!

You're an inspiration (I hate it when people say that to me, because I know we just do what we have to do, but still..), and I'll be back to read your blog regularly.

Dee
xxx

Hi Adrian,

Everytime I've turned on the TV I've seen your face! Well done for today. Adrian, I work in the Education team at the Teenage Cancer Trust and we're going into schools and talking about all the issues around cancer, teaching the next generation not to be afraid of this disease. We would love to help and work with you. We are also talking to people about getting cancer onto the national curriculum. I would to talk to you more about how we can help. Do email!!!

take care, Susie

Ooh, and I just wondered where you;re being treated? I appreciate you may well not have time to answer that, but I'm at Weston Park hospital, in Sheffield, and thought you might be at the same!

Dee :o)

Hi Adrian,
A fellow teacher told me today in my staffroom about seeing you on TV this morning and said how maybe we should be giving sixth form students this info. I have been glued to the computer for hours today, checking out your blogs and have already changed our teaching plans to cover your plea.
The very best of wishes and thoughts.
Jo

Oh blimey.. reading more of your blog, I can (as I;m sure many others can) relate to how you feel, and have felt.

The feelings of guilt, with those you care about. Serious thoughts of suicide. Frustration at out helth system, at times. The feeling when you find out treatment isn't working. Hardky any ebergy. Trying to balance side-effects with steroid dosage!

There are so many people out there, going through similar things. But at times, you can feel so very alone.

Dee (again!)
xxx

I saw your interviews to-day. I wish I was young enough to be registered. I hope your appeal bares fruit.

Not that I know you, but from how you came across on the bbc clip that I saw made me want to contact you. Contact you and say that what you are doing is inspirational and has made many, many people (including me) more aware as to how leukaemia affects the individual and what can me done to help.

I was certainly one of the millions who thought that donating bone marrow was painful (in fact I actually thought it was life threatening). But not anymore, in fact I am actually considering donating.

All I can say is that I wish you all the happiness with the time that you have left, and take comfort in knowing that you have changed at least one person's perception of leukaemia.

If there was a virtual voucher for a beer, I'd buy you one.

Cheers fella.

I have just found out about your blog so decided to sit down and read the whole thing this afternoon. After going through alot of tissues i have realised you along with my grandma (who also suffers from cancer and still fighting strong!) are the most bravest people i have ever come across. Most definately an inspiration!
The one good thing from this illness is that so many of us have managed to see a little into your life and be touched by you.
Your life however long or short it may be will always be carried on by the rest of us in our hearts.
Also after thinking about becoming a bone marrow donor for a while now your blog has answered all queries i had. I will most definately see about getting myself on the list.
Try keep smiling,
Much love, Charllotte xxx

It gives me great comfort in this life to know that people like you are out there, Adrian. Thank you for providing an example of what human strength and love can do.

Hi Adrian,

I saw you on television this morning and I just wanted to say that you're an amazing person.

I'm so glad that you posted the videos on how the bone marrow donation works; I'm now considering becoming a bone marrow donor when I come of age. You have to 18 to be a donor, correct?

Hope the campaign will be a success.

Hi mate, I'm just finding out how big your campaign is becoming over the other side of the pond! All I can say is, Wow :D Looking forward to seeing you again soon dude!

Jordo

Hi Adrian,

I just wanted to say I saw you on TV this morning while I was getting ready for work and I have to say, you're one of the most inspirational people I've ever seen. To have such strength and determination can only be described as phenominal. I'm going to make sure all my family and friends seriously consider what it would mean to be a donor and I'll certainly be registering as soon as possible.

You truly are inspirational. Thank you.

Liz

Hi Adrian. I have never visited your site till tonight after watching you on channel5 news.
I really do hope you get your wish. I certainly for one will be registering to donate, and i shall also be pestering my family and my children.I have read all through your site and I hope you are very proud of what your trying to achieve.I'm sure people will join up.

May i wish you well and good luck with your wish.

Nikki x

Adrian

Seen you this morning on BBC Breakfast, but it looks like I wasn't the only one! Well done

Although it's clearly been said many a time, I feel compelled to add my contribution.

You're not only truly inspiratinal, your compelling and warm and I wish you the very best in everything.

Glory comes from Daring to begin, and there is no doubt that your courage and dedication raising awareness is amazing and will help many many people in the future.

The world needs more people like you, Adrian and I can only hope one day I will manage to show half as much compassion, dedication and strength as you do.

On Behalf of society, Thank You Adrian.
On Behalf of myself, good luck and well done.

All the best, always
Lauren Gibb

Hi Adrian,

I saw you on the tv this morning and was in a hurry so wrote down your blog details to have a look this evening. As it transpires my friend has already sent the details to me. I am already a donor as my nephew had a transplant 3 years ago. My boyfriend has just agreed to register so I'm going to sign him up now and if you don't mind am going to forward your blog details to everyone I know. For anyone else that is reading this and lives in London, the Anthony Nolan Trust are doing a registration clinic at Tiger Tiger in Piccadily on Saturday 31st May between 11am and 4pm. Get down there. Amazing what you are doing, support you completely. If there's anything at all I can do to help increase awareness please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Best wishes to you.
Philippa xx

Hi Adrian,
I saw your story on the BBC website. I came and read your blog and it has made me cry. I was so touched I had to say something, even though I don't quite know what. I am so sorry to hear about all the things that have happened to you recently. You sound like an absolutely amazing person, the kind of person anyone would be lucky to have in their life as a friend or boyfriend. You are so incredibly brave. Please spend the next few weeks being as alive as possible. "The supreme triumph is to be most vividly, most perfectly alive."
(PS I would be on the bone marrow register but I am below the minimum weight)

Hi.
My brother was diagnosed with Leaukemia at Christmas but thankfully doesnt need a bone marrow donor as yet. I just wanted to say that i saw u on the news today and think that ur uber-brave and a real inspiration and i wish u all the best.
=)

Hi, Adrian,
Your story really touched me. I am too old to donate, however i teach in a F.E College and will show your blog to my students. Hopefully when the students read your blog and watch the video they will feel inspired to register.

Best wishes
Pam X

hi adrian,ive been reading about you in sheff star and now ,ive worked out how to do stuff on computer to read and see your blog.you are an inspiration.im absolutely gutted,the world is cruel.you are brave,brilliant and tough,u are fantastic.i dont know what else to say cos im so upset for you x x please keep smiling as long as you can,u r fab xx xx

This post made me want to sign up. I think that's all that needs saying. I will look into the possibly ways to sign up.

All the best

Hello Adrian, How can we thank you for getting so many people to consider joining the Bone Marrow Register. From a very grateful Mum and Dad.
God bless .

Hi Adrian

I saw you on the Breakfast show this morning and am inspired by your courage and strength to make people more aware of bone marrow donation.

You are a real inspiration, so selfless and well... fantastic and I feel/ know that you will make a huge difference to so many lives.

I am now on a mission, for you, to spread the word and try and get as many people as possible to register as I can, if I get to 50 I will be happy- it may take me a while but I will try my best!

You are so strong and determined and I thank you so much for this morning - you have made something click for me and by the number of comments - for so many other people!!

I wish you the best of luck in all that you do!!! Have fun, do things that scare you, excite you and make the most of the people around you!!

Your family must be proud!!! Adrian... you are a star!!

Best wishes
Hayley-Jayne

Adrian;
You are truly an inspiration; I can't tell you how humbled I felt when reading your blog; don't lose that sense of humour!

Sadly I'm too old to donate; they wouldn't even allow me to continue giving blood due to diabetes but I am down as an organ donor so they can have anything that still works when I've finished with it.

You have such incredible spirit; I hope things go well for you; keep fighting mate and when you're feeling rough; do what I do...if you see a hooded figure with a scythe hanging round...give him the finger and run the other way! I hope to be reading your blog for a long time to come.

Much respect to you.

Best Wishes
Darren

Dear Adrian
You are a very brave man and I was very moved by your appearance on BBC Breakfast this morning. I have been a blood donor for almost 20 years since my late teens but I didn't realise I could be a bone marrow donor as well.
I have been thinking back now I don't recall any leaflets in with my regular blood donor letter inviting me to register for bone marrow donation nor being encouraged to register at each blood donor session I have attended. Am I missing a trick here? One of the stipulations is that you have to be a blood donor already and of a certain age. I have already contacted Blood.co.uk to ask them to use their blood donor mail shots to advertise for bone marrow registrations but surely I can't be the first person to have thought of this?
I am deeply sorry that I have not registered myself or been aware until now after all these years. Maybe I won't be a match but I certainly don't mind having the opportunity before I get too old.
I think there could be so much more publicity everywhere for blood and bone marrow donation. I have worked in a variety of public and private sector jobs and yet I can count the number of fellow donors I know on one hand. I only started because I left school at 18 and worked with a blood donor fanatic, otherwise I wouldn't have known.

I wish you all the best and applaud you for you efforts.

Thank you, Adrian, for this very valuable
message. The fact that you choose to devote this part of your life to others is truly amazing and inspiring.

I have been on the donor list here in the US for more than 14 years, although I have never been contacted for donation. I do donate blood every eight weeks, or so, despite a fear of needles (the Red Cross nurses are very skilled and virtually painless !). I would suggest that anyone who is eligible to donate blood should consider taking it a step further and join a bone marrow registry. My only caveat is that here in the US, it does cost a bit of money to be typed for a bone marrow registry unless there is a 'drive' going on with a dedicated sponsor. (shame on us, don't you agree?). It would also be encouraging to have an International Donor registry - so many more could be reached from a vaster pool of potential donors.

My very best wishes for your success in this endeavor.

Susan

Why oh why had I never heard of this site before today? I have spent most of my free time this afternoon and this evening reading through from the start, and I have to say you are one of the nicest, bravest individuals I have ever had the privilege to know - even if it is only in passing through the words of your blog.

The number of people you have inspired - especially through your recent TV and radio fame - must amount to the thousands and I am sure that because of you there will be many more BM donors in the UK. I will hopefully be one of them, as I have just signed up to donate bone marrow and blood! I know this is what you wanted and I think you have already succeeded in your aims!

You are the same age as my other half, affectionately known as my toyboy ;) even though he is only a couple of years younger than me, and I can say you have done more in your life than he and I put together. It's quite shameful really!

I hope that in this difficult stage you are surrounded by the love of your family and friends, I only wish that we could all be there for you too, to give you a huge bear hug ('m only a little thing but I give great hugs).

An acquaintance of mine is at a late stage of cancer too, and her motto is 'no fear, no fear'...she is truly a brave lady and it seems that only the most wonderful and charismatic of people are the ones struck with this dreadful disease. She has also stopped all treatment and is going for the natural option, and seems to be doing well at the moment. For one thing she is much happer, especially without that nasty horrid chemo. So many others are going through the same thing as you right at this very moment, and I so SO hope that there is a cure for all cancer in the future.

I know a lot of people are practically begging you to have more treatment, but in the end it is entirely your call, and rest assured that whatever decision you have come to it is the RIGHT one for you AND for your family. Only you know your body, and having nursed cancer patients I can truly understand why you wouldn't want any more treatment.

Gosh, don't I sound a bit formal? Guess I am that way out this evening, I am 30 this year so starting to feel like a right old bugger. I hope I don't start acting like one! I guess I just wanted to send you all my love and I am sure you already know that so many of us are now thinking of you all the time, you are never alone. Even if you want to be! :)

All the best!
Caroline

Oh Adrian,

I have just sobbed my way through the last 7 months of your life, via your blog. It feels a bit like an invasion of your privacy, like i've just taken a sneaky peek at your diary! But what a gorgeous, incredibly brave bloke you are?
Ive been a nurse for the last 8 years, and believe me, ive met some incredibly humbling human beings who make you completely re-assess your own life, for better or worse! On the flip side, there are some bloody miserable folk who just revel in there own self pity. For all those people who verbally abuse myself and my colleagues on a daily basis for having to wait an hour or two for a minor fracture clinic appointment....i hope you are reading Adrian's amazingly courageous story and feel thoroughly ashamed of yourselves.
If there was any way i could help you achieve the things you so definately deserve out of life, i would be at the front of the queue! If all i can do, is spread the word throughout my hospital about the importance of bone marrow donation....im there. Im signing up ASAP. You have enriched my life more in a couple of hours than in 8 years of being a staff nurse.
Thankyou.
Now go and have a bloody ball! x

Dear Adrian I read about you in the Mail and kept the paper as I had been meaning to read your blog and then I saw the news about you today and was so upset. I wanted to say that I will try my hardest for you to convince people to become donors as I have undergone the apherisis procedure four times for my brother (who thankfully seems to have responded after over a year since the first donation). To anyone reading this, if I can do it, anyone can - really, so join the register - it isn't so bad and one of the most worthwhile things you can do in your life for just a little bit of discomfort. Stay as postive as you can as you are a wonderful person and have created a lasting legacy in raising awareness. My thoughts are with you and your family. Ann xxx

Hiya how are after your visit to the big smoke ?
You must have some many people that av leauaekmia contact so i want be the first and wont be the last. Saw you story on the news;my heart went out to you. There's you with not long to live and trying to make a difference and all i think about is what a crap card life delt me. I was diagnosed back in 1976 in New Zealand when treatment was experimental and i servived just though chemo and radio theropy plus all the meds. Sideffect cant spell lol and have developed a form of skin cancer that have reg checks at Northern Gen and go to Hallamshire once a year to the late effects clinic. If i could take your place hun i would you have so much to give so much more to experience. I really dont know what to say but hang in there and i will pray for you.

Take Care

Rach xxx

Adrian,

Today I watched bits of your blog on the BBC and couldn't believe what an amazing person you are and what an incredible thing you have done with your life. I suffered Leukemia when i was 10 as did my best friend, unfortunatley she didnt make it, and she was an amazing person just like you.I have also been battling a heart condition 4 the last 4 years and most days are a struggle.
I have been waiting for a chance to do something for people suffering with Leukemia and believe this is my chance, i will be focusing all my efforts on trying to raise the awareness on behalf of you around the Midlands.
You are such an inspiration and I wish you, your family and friends all the luckin the world.
Take care, Kimberley xx

Dear Adrian,

I only saw your story this morning on the BBC news page. I completed and posted in my Donor Recruitment Medical Application during lunch.

"Think where man's glory most begins and ends,
And say my glory was I had such friends." William Butler Yeats

All the best,

Dagny

Adrian,

I am very sorry to hear your news. It cannot be easy to take, being able to effectively see the end in front of you. I have not been a reader of your blog before - I came across it because of a feature on the BBC news this evening.

I know that you have decided not to go for any more treatment. I don't want to say anything that is going to offend or hurt you, but wanted to say that I am a Christian, from St Thomas' Church in Crookes (Sheffield). We have seen a number of healings at the church in recent months - acts of God. There is no reason to believe that God would not heal you. I will be praying for you over the next days/weeks, but I would encourage you to come and seek prayer at the church if you would like.

God bless!
Duncan.

Just a quick note to all the people on here who are seeking facts or updates on how things are going with Ad's campaign....with him being down in London updating the blog's a bit tricky!

In the meantime, don't want you to be without the info! So if you check out the main page of www.examiner.co.uk, there's stories following his campaign and giving loads of info about donation (or links to other sources). There should be a campaign page dedicated to Adrian's efforts up there soon too.

Hope this helps.

I have just read your blog after seeing a report on you on BBC News this morning. You are a true inspiration. My wife died of AML 2 years ago (in 3 days time) and I feel ashamed of the diary I kept compared with the blog you have created and so publicly. I have tried to keep the work of Anthony Nolan and Leukaemia Research in peoples mind and have just completed a sponsored parachute jump to raise funds for both organisations despite being terrified of heights. I have been on the register for nearly 27 years - just after we married - but felt so useless when told that I couldnt donate to save the life of my wife. In the end her brother doneted but she was unlucky enough to be so racked with a viral infection the chances of survival were extremely low and she lasted only 5 days. I hope that you are succesful with your aims, and that your end comes with the dignity and grace that it deserves.
GOD BLESS YOU and your family, friends and supporters.

Adrian,

I saw you on the breakfast show this morning (21.05.08) i was moved by what u were saying, how calm and in control you are and i kicked myself. For a short while now i have been saying about giving blood but i have not done anything about it. I work long hours and study most weekends so this was my excuse. I thought about getting in touch with the mobile unit to see if they would come to my place of work, i just never got round to it. You know what, that is no longer going to be the case. Tomorrow i will be going in and speaking to my boss to organise this, on Friday i will chat with my tutor too, i will also be armed with the telephone numbers i need. Hopefully there will be lots of people at work, parents and students at college. It is about time we all took a little time out and gave something that we can give freely and painlessly. I will also enquire about the bone marrow too, time to take action!! Thank you for giving me that kick. You are an amazing person.
Love Donna x

Hi Adrian,
See what you have started now? How good do you feel? I hope you feel really really good. You have captured the imagination of the people. I have passed your site on to as many people as I possibly can and will be hopefully linking to your site from my facebook page. With your permission, I would like to put your web address on my shirt when I do the race for life. Don't get me wrong there flower, I won't be racing, I'll be the one finishing 2 hours after everyone else, but it's the thought that counts! lol.
Hope you are proud of yourself hunnie.
With much love and all the very best wishes I can muster!!!

not sure my last attempt to post made it on... My wife is 7 months post BMT for AML and, having found a donor via Anthony Nolan Trust, I assure you that we are doing everything we can to promote the cause.
Beyond that... What can I say? Sir, you are an incredible, strong and inspirational person. Having had AML in our lives for the last 2 years I feel like I know you somehow... Sounds crazy but more importantly you should just know that there are many of us who are with you. With you all the way Adrian.
Stay strong

Dear Adrian
I've only just read about you and I'm absolutely gutted :( I'm only 32 but I've been struggling with chronic depression for years and have had a few suicidal attempts... I just wish we could swap lives - you have just so much more to give to this world!!! I can't sign up for bone-marrow donations (tried in the past) because of the medication I'm on :( Still, I just want you to know that I've printed your photo and put it over my desk at work and will pray for you as much as I can! I really wish I could at least share with you the days I've got left in my life...
BIG HUG!!!
Perhaps don't give up??? 20% is not much and I'm sure it's all very unpleasant but it's still A CHANCE!!! I'd give a lot to be able to help you somehow...
M

Hi, I work for the duke of edinburghs award, most VI forms have our gold candidates there, super young people who would be ideal for getting your message out to their peers.
They need to do something voluntary to get the award, this could be easy for them to get involved.
Joanna

Have just completed blood & organ donor application, applied for bone marrow donor info.

Wish we'd all signed up earlier.

Rob

Just wanted to wish you the very, very best of luck with the campaign and with making the most of what comes next. My Dad is in remission from High Grade Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma (for which I am unbelievably grateful), and we knew all along that if the chemo didn't work he'd need a bone marrow donor - and he may yet if the cancer comes back. I was so affected by how much a single healthy person could give to someone who desperately needed it, I looked for information on becoming an altruistic donor (as opposed to donating to a loved-one). Unfortunately, I can't do it - I have a clotting condition which means my blood/marrow is no good. But I support your campaign wholeheartedly from the point of view of someone who has done the research and had a glimpse into the real lives behind cancer stories. It really is a tiny thing compared to the huge good it can bring.
Jan x

Aid,

fantastic to see your camaign doing so well. Not much more I can say but well done. You're a good man. I wish you well.

Lets beat this evil thing that is leaukemia!

Much love

Greg

I give blood because at 14 a friend had a heart transplant, he sadly passed away two years ago but I know there are many more like him that need help.
i have never signed up for bone marrow donation, its always beensomething I will do tomorrow.
The reason I am writing this is in hope that before you pass away you can see that you have made a difference because next time i give blood i promise you i will sign up to help a guy or gal like you have a second chance.
Thank you for making me think.

What can I say, I have just read your blog from beginning and the ending was not what I had hoped for. I laughed (particularly at the dancing) and I cried but overall I felt uplifted. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings with us, you are an inspirational man and I hope you get to have lots of fun in the time you have left. You are surrounded by great family and friends and are obviously loved very much, my thoughts are with them to.

I used to give blood but had a large blood transfusion which I was told meant I could no longer donate but I will find out if I can join the Bone Marrow register. That at least I can do for you.

Terry

Adrian,

You are doing a fantastic job promoting your cause. I am a secondary school teacher and am going to speak to the Head tomorrow about promoting the bone marrow donor register to our sixth form students.
It's also wonderful to read comments from so many lovely people from all races and religions on this site. It's really restored my faith in human nature.

Good Luck

Kirsty

x

Adrian,

You are an amazing, amazing person. Your blog is a wealth of knowledge and a tribute to you. I am going register with both the blood and bone marrow services. You are an inspiration, I will be thinking of you. Lovely to meet you, albeit virtually!

Hi Mate

Well I tried? I am raging that I am not alowed to be on the register all because i am gay? For f@@k sake i have been with the same partner for 8 years (first and only partner for us both) I understand the risk but put it this way i changed our life policys last year and as we are a same sex couple we were made to go for various tests inc HIV and both obviously no problem with any of their tests. We have two "straight" friends one with HIV and another with a sexualy transmited problem and they would not get asked the questons I was asked today? I would not risk any infection for someone needing Blood or Bone Marrow - so why I ask. I am so anoyed as I really want to help! I suppose the only way I can help now is by getting as many "STRAIGHT" family and friends to register thanks to you. I hope you understand how upset I am that I cant help as I really want to! One question I asked them today was "If one of ny family needed Bone Marrow or Blood and I ofered to see if I matched what would you do" There answer was if it matched we would test your blood for infection and take it from there? Well why not the same plan for if I was ever able to donate to any other person? Put simply I am anoyed that i did not know i could not help and believe that the UK should change and allow Gay people to do this like many many other places in the world! I will still spread the word!!

Cheers and hope your doing good and having fun!

Adrian, if you are well enough, and I hope you are, please take them time to contact me if you can.

This is not anything to do with religeon. It is something personal to me.

My best guess is that your system will log my email address and you can reply. I hope so.

As soon as posiible please, this is important.

Adrian,

You are a blessing to all who are forced to journey with this horrid disease! I lost my husband of 28 years to Acute Mylogenous Leukemia 8 years ago this July. He was 63... I still wonder why with the technology we have today why this wicked disease cannot be cured. But getting this knowledge out regarding bone marrow transplants IS one of the ways we can prolong or even stop the process of a disease that for some reason, for the most part, evades medical treatment for the majority of those who face it.
I had actually signed up to be a bone marrow donor years before my husband was diagnosed and the most bizarre thing happened about 2 weeks after he passed I was notified to come in for more testing that there was a need for my type of bone marrow. I was so excited to be able to perhaps pass on a sliver of hope to someone needing help but was devastated to find that the match wasn't made.

This is SO important for folks to realize that it is not a painful gift to give and the gift of life to someone else is the most precious thing one can give.

I have a page online for my precious husband; it stands in honor of his passion for life and his courage in battle with this devastating disease. It can be found at wwww.rainbowspromise.net and I would offer it to you for courage and peace for what you are going through. You have so much already and I am amazed at your strength but if there is anything there that can bolster that I would be honored to have you read it.

Blessings on you my friend whom I've never met but know I will one day!

Hi!
Thanks for the education. In your honor, I will put bone marrow donor registration on my list of things to do. I will also take a step back and enjoy my health because I know other people like you would give anything for one day of good health. It is people like you who remind people like me to stop and enjoy because you don't know what is around the corner.

Today is the first time I read your blog and I can't put my hands around all your misfortune. When I read about your girlfriend calling off the engagement I thought it was too overwhelming. You are very brave.

Keep replaying all the wonderful memories you were able to create. Your legacy will live on when your sister has children and she can tell them what a wonderful uncle they have. Perhaps write them a note or buy them a small token to tuck away so she can give it to them one day. They will be like the children you were hoping to have.

God's blessings,
Heather

hi adrian ,
bored rigid on nights and came across you shamelessly pimping yourself out to the media .
we're so proud of you and would love to take you out for a drink soon and hopefully get to see your robotic dance moves !!
give us a buzz when your next free and give gordon our love , he'll know who we are !!
lots of love n hugs , super h x2 and lovely laura xxxxxxxx
ps . here's a big extra kiss from me MMMMmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmwah xx

Hi Adrian,

I came to your blog via the BBC.

I was going to read it all the way through before commenting and then saw your post talking about how much you appreciate the comments and read every one and I want you to know you have touched another person.

I've been on the bone marrow register for the past 15 years, ever since a member of my ethnic group became ill and I learnt that the only possible match would be someone with a similar genetic history. Sadly he passed away before finding a donor but as a result of all of us who signed up for him, six matches to date have been made that would otherwise not have been made. Four of those people flew to other countries to save the lives of strangers.

This is a special message to all the Jewish and Arab and Pakistani and Asian and Jamaican and Indian and other "ethnic" and "mixed" readers. It is so important that if you can sign up as a donor, that you do. All potential donors are important but if someone gets ill in your community they will almost certainly find it harder to find a donor than, say, someone of Scandinavian descent. I would happily donate my bone marrow to anyone in need anywhere in the world but the reality is that only someone with a similar ethnic background will be compatible to me. And that's true for you too.

Adrian, you are doing a wonderful thing in your final months, weeks or hopefully years of life. I am so sad that the bone marrow transplant did not work for you, but because of what you are doing other lives will be saved. May you have a gentle and peaceful journey to the next stage.

Embi

Sorry you are going through it, it's wonderful you are taking time to educate and encourage others. That's what it's all about really- however long we live.

You are in my thoughts and prayers, good luck with your cause and I hope more treatment options arrive for you too.

Dear Adrian.
I would like you to know that with this one post you have already made a change. Mrs Wright (one of your father's friends) is my English teacher. Other girls in my class (Beth and Hayley) have already posted and even though I don't know you, I think you're an amazing selfless person. I agree with you about educating people about bone marrow transplants. At my school I'm doing an assembly on bone marrow transplants and my inspiration is you. I hope to help in teaching people about bone marrow transplants.
Before I knew nothing about bone marrow transplants but already I am considering to give bone marrow when I'm older. I hope you succeed and that learning about bone marrow transplants becomes part of the curriculum.
Thank you so much for making a difference to the world and stay strong. Good luck,
Daphne

Hi,

I just stumbled across your story. I'm English and currently live abroad (Norfolk lad and went to Uni in Sheffield), but when I return home I promise I will put myself on the register for bone marrow and organ donation.
Good luck mate I wish you and your folks all the best, your courage makes me proud to be an Englishman!

Hi Adrian

You are a inspiration.

I lost a friend to two strains of leukaemia in February. She had just turned 28 and had two young children. During her treatment the hospital needed donations of blood almost daily as a sort of personal supply for her, but here in Spain you can't donate blood - let alone bone marrow - if you lived in the UK for a year or more between 1980 and 1996 so that ruled me and many of her friends out.

What you are doing is so very important. Keep spreading the message, and enjoy every minute because you WILL save lives.

Suzanne

Hi Adrian,
I visited your blog after seeing your story on Calendar.You are doing a fantastic job for yours and everybody's cause,it is just a shame that the only time the media becomes interested is when hero's like yourself stand up and fight,when really you should be looking after number one.
After 8 years on the register i became a donor 2 years ago.I donated stem cells on a cell separator.I must admit it was a bit worrying before hand,fear of the unknown,but the pocedure was nothing more than giving blood but for a longer period.The only discomfort i felt was aching bones in the run up to the donation but once the donation was over the discomfort disapeared.Unfortuanately the donation wasn't successful for the patient.This has not put me off at all & i would donate again tomorrow.The biggest frustration is trying to recruit people on to the register.
What i would say to anyone considering joining the register is ....Would you donate for a family member? Where would you turn if no family members where a match?
Keep battling,best wishes
Chris

Hi Adrian,

I'm a Brummy living in Dublin by the way and I saw you yesterday morning on the BBC Breakfast show and couldn't believe it when you said that the prognosis wasn't good.

Watched the Champions League football match last night and although I'm a Blues supporter and a Liverpool supporter by default because of my younger son, the whole scenario of the winners and losers of a football match paled into insignificance when I thought of you.

Taking my son to school this morning, we were discussing the outcome of the match and then we were discussing about your illness and both of us agreed that we get very caught up in unimportant things in life and, at the end of the day, it's only a football match.

I'm going to Italy in August and I did hear that Padre Pio worked miracles. I was hoping that if I asked him he would help you but in the scheme of things, that doesn't sound feasible. You must be destined for other things although I'm sure your friends and family will think otherwise.

I would love to donate bone marrow but unfortunately I'm about 10 years over the age limit. However, I will work on my two sons to seriously think about it.

All I can do Adrian is to wish you much love and I hope that my two sons turn out into the smashing, caring guy you obviously are.

Hello,
Firstly can i just say that i really admire you for your attitude and campaigning.
I would love to be a bone marrow donor, and I am a young healthy woman so there are no problems with me physically that could stop me being a donor. My problem is that i live in Denmark, but I am not sure how long for. As such neither country will allow me onto their bone marrow registar which seems tragic to me as I might be walkign around with the potential to save someones life. I think as so many people move around in Europe now there needs to be a central register as the rule state that you must live in a country and be able to live in a country for the next three years to register.

Good luck to you x
Good luck to you,

I watched a report about your blog today on MSNBC.com, and came over to check it out. I just watched this video explaining bone marrow transplant. I had no idea it was so simple! I'm really so surprised that there's not more advocacy for something not that much more difficult than donating blood.

I'm going to look into becoming a donor and try to encourge my family and friends to do the same. According to the video, it really is such a small sacrifice to add even the briefest amount of time to a life.

Thank you for sharing.

Dear Adrian,

My heart goes out to youand your family. I was watching Msnbc this morning and saw a clip of you and that led me you your blog. I want you to know that I am contacting red cross this mrning to become get on the list. Leslie

Hi Adrian, saw you twice on the television yesterday and wanted to write to you.

I donated bone marrow via harvest in December 2006 - if you want someone to talk about what is supposed to be the more painful procedure, it would be great to reassure as many people as possible. I was a bit stiff/sore for a few days after my operation, but was back playing footy within 2 weeks!

I have had good news about my recipient from the Anthony Nolan Trust, although I still know very little about who or where she is.

Anyway, good luck with the campaign.

hi my name is ana freitas.
i´m from Açores Portugal.
i saw your blog and i was so touched to see that you have such positive attitude.
really i am so proud of you . here in açores its an island by the way , its not common to hear about those kinds of things, but i wish i could help those who need. so if you have time and want please tell me how you have my email so hope to hear from you .

ana freitas.

Hi i just recently watched you on the news . I pary to God that you still will make it . Am not sure if you believe in God but it says that in the bible you can move a mountain if you have enough faith in him . Please pray your heart out to God and stay strong in his faith . I will pray for you. What you are doing is so great and very unselfish of you , i used to think that bone marrow donation meant you had to go through surgery , were doctors extract enough amount . Thank you for education the world about the procedure , it will save a lot of lives . God be with you

Hi Adrian,
I heard your story in the daily mirror and I was greatly touched.I think you are inspiration to a lot of people including me.But I will like to inform you that all is not over yet. Don't give up on life yet.Doctors may say you will soon die , but if God says you will live, you will definately live, because He has the final say.God has done it for other people before and He can still do it for you.He has healed people with serious medical diagnosis before, that the medical sciences couldn't:people with HIV AIDS, cancer etc. It may not be possible with medical experts but with God all things are possible.My brother was seriouly ill, day by day, we were expecting the worst.I love him so much I wanted him to live.I was helpless, I ran to God who is the help for the helpless and went to meeet a man of God, who joined his faith to ours and we prayed for him together. My brother started recovering and gave his live to Christ ,to the glory of God ,my brother is still alive today(this happened in 1998).I have of also been plagued by typhoid fever, that defies every medical intervention, but received my healing from word of prayer from a man of God and God healed me.
There are great men of God that God is really using them in the area of healing ministries.One of such men is Pastor Enoch Adeboye, is a nigerian pastor that ministers all over the world and God is really using him to save a lot of soul and heal a lot of people. This pastor is the general overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God. The church Europe headquarter is at:

53 Theobald Street, Borehamwood

Herts, WD6 4RT

TELEPHONE ¬

+44 208 207 0101
WEBSITE & EMAIL ¬

centralofficerccg.co.uk

http://rccgeu.org.
www.rccg.org

There is also another great man of GOD, IS name is Bishop David Oyedepo, he is the presiding bishop of LIVING FAITH CHURCH also known as WINNERS chapel.
www.davidoyedepoministies.org.
From this website, you will get their contact detail.
Please don't take this as another madness of one fanatics.I am just a christian that have seen and experienced the healing power of our lord, Jesus Christ,maybe God wants to use your case to show His greatness in England, so that you will serve Him and everyone will know Him as Lord.
Please take action and have faith in GOD and He will honour your faith.If doing this might be too much for you at this time, people around you like you mum, dad, brother and friends should be able to help you arrange for contacts with these great men of GOD. They will not charge you a penny. I strong believe that god is capable of making you to live and not to die young and make you life a living testimony.
All the best. I shall continue to pray for you.

Love
Kemi.

Adrian,
You are an inspiration. I have not personally been affected by leukemia or lost a loved one to it, I have however, lost a loved one to cancer. Reading your blog and taking in your fight has encouraged me to join a marrow registry and to encourage my husband and others to do the same. This is indeed a act of humanity and an example for my children to live by.

Stay strong and continue to inspire people across the world. Maybe this was your purpose?

JoAnn
Indiana, USA

Adrian- I am not one of the lucky few to know you. In fact it was only today May 22, 2008 that I first heard of you and found your blog. I have been reading non stop since I found it. I wanted you to know that you are my hero. You didn't start out in this endeavor to be anyone's hero, and I understand that. But the way that you have lived your life with grace under fire, and absolute bravery is inspiring, even on your darkest days you were corageous enough to share from your soul and remind us that you were human. You are a hero not only for these qualities but for working so hard to educate people about how they can help. I love the way you have chosen to do it, by creating a video, and although I am in the US and not the UK, you have inspired me to look into becoming a bone marrow donor just by debunking the myths about it. I want you to know that you can be sure that your efforts will not be in vain. I intend to take this information that you have shown me and tell others about it. If continue to spread the word as you have shown us, we can continue to spread hope. I don't think a day will go by for the rest of my life that I don't think about you, so great is the impact you have had on me. Stay strong and remember this: "When it is dark enough, you can see the stars"-Ralph Waldo Emerson ♥

Hi
I had no idea that bone marrow was so easy, I hope you get alot of people to donate, I will if they accept me, I will also pray for you. May God Bless you and your family. Thank you for taking tha time to educate all of us. My family have a history of cancer. My mother is a cancer suvivor. She was 35 now she is 54 and I thank got every day for her.

Adrian...I just saw you today on the news. You have inspired me and grounded me like no other has ever done. I will sign up to donate my stem cells. I too have thought about doing this but was afraid. My fear seems so unfounded when compared to where you have been and what you are facing. God be with you! I am 41 years old and the mother of one Son, Ian, age 7. My heart aches at the thought of you leaving the ones that you love so young! You will be in my prayers and I WILL GET ON THAT LIST ASAP. You are an angel and I hope your blog lives on until it reaches every human in this world. Lots of love and prayers from the Outer Banks of North Carolina, USA.

So I sit here at my desk suppose to be working with tears flowing from my eyes as co workers walk by and give me the what the hell is wrong with her look. And I can't help but just look back and grin :) Only if they knew what a true inspiration you truly are! I see I have asked the same question as many others why does this happen to such a truly amazing person? What about all those worthless people out there why can't this happen to them. Then I have to think ... Well because they wouldn't have touched my heart the way you have!!! Not that it's fair in anyway at all… but you were put here on earth to be an inspiration to others. To show others how to use their strength, their courage, and how to truly make the world a better place! I appreciate you opening your life up to so many. You will be in my prayers along with your family! Stay strong …. You will never know how much I appreciate you! You have made me a better person by just reading your blog and realizing how unappreciative I've been of the life I've been given. I promise if nothing else to try to become a better person because of you! And this I can't think you enough for!!! Keep your head up and stay as strong as possible for as long as possible :) LOTS OF LOVE

Adrian,
I just saw a video of you online and wanted to say that you are in my prayers. What a true inspiration you are to so many and especially me on this Thursday morning. Hearing your story and seeing your radiant love of life, has opened up my thinking into becoming a donor. I will definitelu look into it. I always thought it was a painful process, but what is painful is watching those that can be helped having to wait unitil someone steps up and takes action. PLEASE stay strong and you're in my prayers. Lots of love, Teresa in California

Adrian,
I saw your story featured on msn.com's "video highlights".
I grew up in Ohio, moved to California, now reside in Calgary, Canada with my wife and twins (10 month old boy and girl). I lost my Step Father to Cancer of the Pancreas 3 years ago. Every time I read about or hear about Cancer, it affects me deeply.
Thank you.
Thank you for educating me on EVERY aspect of what you have gone through, I've learned so much.
You've made me a better person just by reading this blog and watching your videos.
You are an incredible star, and I hope and pray, no matter what happens, you can have some bit of happyness and comfort in this very unfair circumstance that has been cast unto you.
You have created a legacy that will live on!

I will stay tuned, and will write again.

I am a nurse working on a ward with people under going bmt's and SCTs. I think you show incredible strength of character, I feel honoured and very lucky to be able to make a small difference to people like yourself who are so brave,

I wish you all the best, you will never be forgotten by those around you xx

I heard about your blog and wanted to say thank you for everything you are doing. My mother Kathryne Freel passed away from cancer in 1993 and she was so strong even having no one to talk to about what she was going thru and how she felt about this happening to her. knowing that you have made such great strides to bring awareness to this and, letting other people know they are not alone, makes you such a wonderful person. I also wish that the bone marrow donating issue you have talked about gets more people to do this, i also tried to donate my bone marrow for my mother, but i was only 9 and my voice seemed so small and quite to all those around me, but i strongly believe if i had maybe she would have had a little more time with us. Thank you again and GOD bless you your blog I know has helped more than one person in this world and you will always be remembered take care and may you have peace knowing your word will go on!!!!

I am giving blood in a few days and will apply to go on the register. My husband would too but at 51 he is too old - if possible the upper age limit should be increased. I am deeply moved by your situation and at times like these I question my faith and God's motives, how can he let this happen to you? I think it must be because he wants you for himself, you are too good for this place and are going to a better one. I think he must have a special job lined up for you. I pray for peace and contentment for you. Everytime I start to worry about some triviality I am going to give my self a pinch from now on. God bless you, thinking about you and much love.

Dear Adrian,

You are such an inspiration and are well on the way to achieving your goal.

You will live on long after the rest of us have been forgotten.

My heart goes out to you and your loving family and friends,

Sending you positive thoughts from Glastonbury

Roe x

Adrian

Theres very little I can add to the praise thats already being lavished upon you.

I have just completed a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy at Weston Park in Sheffield for throat cancer (squamous cell carcinoma for the technical). Throughout this period I too have run a blog for family and friends to keep in touch with progress - its nothing like the global scale of yours but still getting around 1500 unique hits per month!! :-)

Anyway - I have placed a link directly to your site and an explanation as to why on my blog - hopefully there will be a few more visitors as a result and a few more potential bone marrow donator's could be signed up accordingly.

Fingers crossed, and all the best mate. You really are an inspiration.

Hi again Adrian - CRIKEY! - You really have started something now, haven't you! They say that something good should come from something bad, and you have proved that, beyond a shadow of a doubt. Whatever happens, you should be very proud that you have galvanised a lot of people into doing something worthwhile with their lives in becoming a bone marrow donor (I've been on the register for 14 years). Have a good weekend and a rest (if you can!). Tracy & family x

God bless you...I really have donated blood for sometime. Even quit taking an Rx that was suddenly added to the no go list so I could resume donating. Now, though I had inquired about having my bone marrow tested and added to a potential donor list, I will follow through the next week with this. And will dare others to go with me to do it, too.

My dream is that I can help someone ... perhaps you!

With love from the US

Adrian,
Just came across your blog and am devestated for you. I have a 19 year old daughter and can not even imagine what your parents are going through. Years ago, when I was in college, there were people there looking for bone marrow donors. I am an insulin dependent diabetic and they said that I could not donate. Do you know if that is true? I wish you all the best and enjoy every minute. May God bless you and your family.

you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Adrian,
I admire your courage and wish you the best. I came across your story while I was browsing online and I was totally taken back. I can not say that I understand what you are going through, but I wish you all the enjoyment and happiness you may find. I recently caught myself complaining about the run of bad luck due to my poor history of health problems, but you brought me back down to earth. What I love most about your attitude is making the best of the everything. Many of us take for granted each and every day live with grudges or worry about little things when in the grand scheme of thins it makes little difference. I think it is great you blogging. I hope you enjoy each and every day, and get the blessing of spending many more days with your family, friends and loved ones. Take care and good luck.

Slacking at work yesterday I ran across your story- I wanted to let you know that you have reached/touched a southern girl in Chattanooga, TN.
YOU are leaving a mark in this world-

Like many others, I too just recently ran across your story. I didn't know much about being a bone marrow donor and honestly never really thought much about it. For what it is worth, I am now doing my research into becoming a donor. Reading your story I thought about your family and all the other families who are also watching their children struggle with this disease. I thought about my 2 young daughters and the complete and udder helplessness everyone involved must feel. I think it's a small price to pay to become a donor. At worst to be hospitalized for 2 days. 2 days of my life to give someone else a chance at another life. Also, I will be doing what I can to share your story and the importance of becoming a bone marrow donor. I can't thank you enough for sharing.

I recently was a PBSC Donor for a leukemia patient. I signed up to be on the list about 5 years ago and completely forgot about it. In November, I received a call from the National Marrow Donor Program (US) and found out that I was a potential match. After several more tests, the patient's doctor decided I was the best match.
I started receiving injections of filgrastim in March and despite having a white count of 40K I didn't experience many side effects. Initially they tried to harvest from my arms out one and in the other; however, after several vein collapses and finally infiltration at the return site, we decided to do the harvest through a central line placed in my superior venacava.
That was really no big deal having it put in and harvesting the next day, but after the initial harvest I had a reaction to the anaesthetics used during the central line placement or the painkillers they gave me or my body was just freaked out by the fluid shift that occured and I had horrible vomiting for several hours. I finally fell asleep after being given atavan.
The next day they did the final harvest and I was released from the center after the central line was removed. No problems this time. Eventhough I experienced some complications the procedure wasn't that rough or scary and I feel good that I had the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life

Adrian

I don't know what I can say other than your blog moved me to look in to becoming a bone marrow doner. Unfortunately I received a blood transfusion a few years ago and that means I'm not a suitable donor, apparently.... Kinda feel like I let you down. Does anyone know if that really is the rule? You're in in my thoughts, and I'm humbled by your bravery. You are making a difference - no - you've MADE a difference to how people think about one another.

Anyhow - I had an idea - maybe not an orignal one, but an idea from me is quite a unique thing.... I don't know how practical it is, but thought about charity events, but instead of raising money, I thought about collecting signatures from individuals who'd be willing to donate bone marrow instead. I can't donate the blood needed because I received blood, but maybe I, and others like me could help in some small way, by organising a unique 'fund' raising events, funds being blood types etc.

My sincerest best wishes

Carl

Dear Adrian,
Im Only 13 And My Mom And I Have Been Reading Your Blog... Mums Just Joined The Bone Marrow Register... And I Will To As Soon As Im Old Enough :)...

Wish There Was Something I Could Say

I Will Continue To Read Your Blog... :)
And I Will Follow You Throughout Your Mission x

Lovee Lyndiee xx

I want to say a BIG thank you for opening my eyes and raising so much attention to leukaemia and bone marrow...

Being a 21 year old lad it hadn't crossed my mind until I seen you on TV this week.

After reading all your blogs the past few days I am defiantly going to take part in helping either it be find raising or stem cell.

Hello Adrian

I only heard about your 'blog' the other day.

I am going to find it difficult to put into words exactly how I feel about you, Adrian.

As an individual, you are a man of great courage. As a person trying to raise awareness for bone marrow donations, you are an inspiration.

This may sound an odd thing to say, but I sincerely hope that you have tried every possible treatment available to you to beat this horrible form of cancer.

As you will have come to realise only too well over the past weeks, months, and years, the gift of life is such a precious thing.

You grab me in the stomach, Adrian, and you tear at my heart.

I cannot tell you how fantastically proud I am of you for showing such strength at a time when most people would, probably quite understandably, wish to keep their own counsel.

Like many people in this country, I would like to give you a big hug!

God bless you, Adrian.

With great love and admiration.

Jerry x

Letting you know that our family joins your fight and continues to draw as much attention to being a donor as we can!
My 9 year old son Logan was dx with ALL leukemia on Dec. 12, 2005 when he was 7 years old. He relapsed on Dec. 6, 2006. At this point we needed a transplant. My youngest son Connor was 5 at the time and donated his marrow to Logan. We were all blessed with their being a match! Even though we did not rely on the national registry we push for those who do depend on it. We have made many friends through out Logan's journey who did use the registry.
We just had a marrow registry drive last weekend on Saturday and signed up 66 people. We were wanting more but we know that one of those 66 could be an answered prayer to someone somewhere.
Please know we will pray for you now!
We have a friend who is 14 and is a transplant patient and had CML as well. His numbers from testing just shot through the roof and we pray for him now.
God bless you and "KEEP ON KEEPING ON"
Johna Miller
Mom & team leader of "Team Logan" in the Relay for Life and the love of home!
www.caringbridge.org/visit/loganmiller

Hi Adrian

Great post. I have made an appointment to give blood on 6 June and will be talking to them about going on the bone marrow register.

I have a phobia of general anaesthetics but having read your post now realise that in 75% of cases it is not necessary to have one.

I know two people that have suffered (and survived) luekemia and now have read your story too and after my Dad's serious illness and meeting desperate relatives in the ICU waiting room, I feel it is the least I can do. I would be delighted to help someone in this way.

I have been talking to a lot of people about your story and the bone marrow register and have been amazed at people thinking they need to have their spine drilled with no pain relief etc. This procedure is definitely misunderstood.

I hope you are having fun with your friends and family and are continuing to feel strong and able to cope.

Love

Jane xx

hi
i am from iran .
i like that you be well......
and boon marrow in iran is free for all.
good

Hi Adrian

I too am in the last stages of life awaiting a double lung transplant and have been for a year. I am trying to get more people to sign the transplant register. I think the time has come when giving blood, Bone Marrow and signing theregister needs to be in the forefront of everyones minds and i will continue the fight up until the end. I saw you on the TV last week and you made think. Since then in all my e mails i send and comments i make i am not only asking people to sign up to the donor transplnt list but also the Bone marrow list.
All my Love Helen Miller
xxxxxxxxxxxx

Kia ora Adrian. I am flying back to New Zealand today and remembered that I had intended contacting you before I left. I heard you on FiveLive a couple of weeks ago when I was in Norwich visiting my sister. I was very moved by what you said. I am sending you positive vibes. And sometimes they work. Promise! I've been living on The West Coast of The South Island for nearly a year and a half now. I'm a Social Worker in mental health. I have been here for a few weeks visiting family and friends and seeing Hull City being promoted too!! Enough about me anyway. I just wanted to wish you well and as I said earlier, what you said really touched me. Especially when you mentioned the education that goes on in Germany. A little thing that could literally save lives. Your gratitude about the extra time you have had was wonderful to hear. Take good care.x

Adrian, you're an inspiration to us all.

Hi Adrian,

Well done mate. What a fantastic dude you are!

It's not until you are hit with something that you realise what a difference you can make....

My son has a very rare illness called Dyskeratosis Congenita. He needs a Bone Marrow Transplant and has had no luck so far. This has made me realise that we really need to educate people and let people know how Bone Marrow is actually donated.

Please contact me, as I have recently tried to encourage people to become donors and have also created a group on facebook and have sent out emails to various companies.

I would really like to help out as much as I can and you are the guy who can advise me.

Regards

Farah

Hi Adrian
I have been following your progress through the Huddersfield Daily Examiner and was very sad and upset to hear about your relapse however I just want to tell you what an inspiration you are to me and how much what you are fighting for has moved me that i went on line to sign the petition and am attending a drop in session to join the bone marrow register. I too have been affected by a form of cancer myself and although I was lucky to survive I realise I may have needed the help of others and therefore will continue to support bone marrow donation and organ donation to give anyone affected by this terrible illness a chance to live. You are an amazing and unselfish person and all my thoughts are with you. Here's to happy times for you with your family and friends
Love Lisa x x x

Adrian,

You're such a fastastic person, and a true inspiration. I have lost family friends to leukaemia, and know what a tradgedy it is. Bless you for putting some much of your precious time into trying to help others.

Lots of love,

Chloe

I just wanted to say that i lost my dad to cancer 3 years ago and since then I have wanted to help people as much as possible. At 13 years old it was difficult to even think and at 16 i decided it was time i did something..no matter how small I thought it was. Last month i joined the organ transplant list, ticking every box, including bone marrow, and after reading your blog I'm glad I did. It was one of the ones i wasnt too sure about as it seemed a scary process although i knew what it involved, but i thought it best.
Good Luck in everything
xxxxxxxxxxxxx

I've been watching you on the news recently and have been amazed by you! I donated my stem cells to an unrelated donor in Germany last August and often wonder how the recipient is doing. I've been wanting to write on your blog for a while but selfishly have put it aside thinking that I've been 'too busy'. You don't have the luxury of putting things aside so I'm writing to say that if I can help in any way in promoting your campaign by talking to people about how easy stem cell donation is, then I'm here. God bless you.

Dear Adrian - you are amazing and I salute you. I have forwarded your bloglink to all my friends. What can I say - words seem so inadequate? You are so generous, capable of giving and teaching so much when you are feeling so bad - you are an inspiration and example to us all. I am sending you energy and want you to know that you are constantly in my thoughts. Love and light ... and thank you.
Jane, La Palma, Canary Islands xxx

Hi Buddy

I can relate to so much of what you've said on these pages and the likes of Radio 5. I have terminal cancer and your attitude to what's left of your life mirrors my own. I don't want sympathy. I just want to crack on and spend as much quality time with my family and friends as I can. People remark on the bravery but it is true you find a strength from somewhere to battle on. You re-focus your life and soon find out what really matters.

I love the way you've committed yourself to raising the donation issue in the time you've got left. I'm full of admiration for you. Dare I say it, you are indeed a brave young man. Sincere best wishes for your efforts. You WILL make such a difference to the lives of some many others.

An amazing blog. Im going to share it with a friend!

I lost a relative to a horrifying cancer and strongly identify with people who are going through this.

I hope someday that they find a cure.

Hi Adrian,

ALmost finished reading your blog.I read comments too, not all but many.

There is one comment from Johny,your sister was lucky to have a brother like you.You and family have gone through so much.

Only after I started reading Adrians blog that I came to know about somany people having leukemia.Anyway opened my eyes,I have many problems but nothing like this.I hope god will give peace and happiness to those who are suffering and to all living things.

Adrian you will never know how your blog changed someone sitting in a far away country!

Regards,

Shiney