Local Cancer Patient Needs Your Help

San Antonio (July 17, 2009) – When Colton Martinez’s class took up a change collection for cancer patients, the seven-year-old donated every cent he could find. But he never thought his dad would be one of those patients he so selflessly donated to. Rob Martinez, Colton’s father, is fighting for his life and waiting for a very special donation, a gift that has yet to be given.

Thirty nine-year-old Rob Martinez is suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He waits for a marrow transplant, a possible cure for the disease.

Seventy percent of patients searching for a lifesaving donor turn to Be The Match Registry. Unfortunately, as a Hispanic, Martinez’s search for a marrow donor is a challenge due to his ethnic background. Because tissue types are inherited, patients are more likely to match someone of their same racial and ethnic background. Minorities represent less than 25 percent of the Registry, decreasing Martinez’s chance of finding a matching donor.

According to his family, Martinez's physician told him he needs a marrow transplant within seven weeks or he will need alternative treatment.

Rob MartinezThe Martinez family is asking everyone who is eligible, especially the Hispanic community, to sign-up with Be The Match Registry. You never know if you could be someone’s lifesaving match.

Registering is easy: fill out paperwork and swab your cheek. Registrants must be between 18 and 60 years old. Visit www.bethematch.org or stop by an area marrow registration drive to register.

###


Media Resources


Interviews: Robert Martinez, leukemia patient, Becky Martinez, mother of Robert   

Images: Robert Martinez and family

Web sites: www.southtexasblood.org                                                          www.bethematch.org