“Donating my stem cells was such a small thing for me, but a massive thing for the person on the other side. One day out of your life could give someone countless years.” 

Ashley plays Solo Baritone with Foden's and recently gave the ultimate gift to a stranger: a second chance at life!

“I first signed up to the stem cell register after someone I knew through the brass band I play in was diagnosed with leukemia and needed a stem cell transplant. A big campaign across the Brass Band Scene happened with many of us signing up with the DKMS team - it was very easy to register,” recalls Ashley.

“7 years went by - to be honest, I had completely forgotten I had signed up! Then, I remember I had been at work and I checked my phone - I had a missed call, text, and email from DKMS - I thought: What’s all this?”

“To hear I was a potential match for a patient - it was amazing. I was a little nervous about the donation experience, but everyone was so lovely and reassuring.

“I donated at the Sheffield collection centre - everyone there was so kind. In fact, it was quite nice to have a rest for a few hours! Life is so busy - so it was nice to have time just to myself.

“Everyone I’ve told thinks it's amazing. I know I’ve even inspired other people to sign up! I work at a secondary school, and they were really supportive. In fact, a little boy at my school has recently been diagnosed with leukaemia, so it feels even more important.

“I’ve now written to the patient who received my stem cells, and I found out he’s a dad - knowing I’ve given him extra time with his two children is incredible. I was excited to hear he’s doing well, and I hope one day we might even be able to meet.”

You could be someone’s second chance at life, too. Join the register today - dkms.org.uk/register.