Pakistan-descent Physicians Society Hosted a drive in Chicago for stem cell donors & Bone Marrow Donation Campaign.

On Sunday, March 31st, 2019 at Islamic Foundation North, Libertyville hosted a Drive in partnership with Pakistan Descent Physician society to awareness for stem cell and Bone Marrow Donation in South Asian Community.

The purpose of the drive was to register as a volunteer for the chance to save a life of someone battling leukemia, lymphoma and cancer.

During an interview with Dr. Muhammad Waseem Kagzi said "We are here today with several Doctors and Volunteer to register and making awareness about stem cell and Bone Marrow Patients in need of bone marrow transplants must find a matching donor outside of their family. There are two ways you can save someone's life. You can donate and help that person get a second chance at life. The patient's doctor will select the best suitable method that promises the best outcome for the patient."

Dr. Noman Haider a Pakistan Physician also there on the drive side "Registry requires a sample of cells, usually collected by swabbing the inside of your cheek. We use this sample to compare specific protein markers, known as human leukocyte antigens (HLA) with HLA markers of patients who need a bone marrow transplant. When a registry member matches a patient. Doctor asks donors to choose two ways to donate peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) or bone marrow. The mostly doctor chooses the donation method that's best for the patient."

Dr. Amera Manzoor Rahman, President of Pakistan Descent Physician society said, "This year we are doing many projects we are collecting stem cell donation. We also are trying to save lives of 24-year-old girl Lina in California. I want all the community to join us for a good cause. If anyone is having question we are happy to answer."

Several youth volunteers were there on the drive to encourage registering for a great cause and save the life of someone battling leukemia, lymphoma, or another blood cancer. The volunteer also encourage to register on PPS and Samarinfo.org.

The Pakistan Physicians Society (PPS) of Illinois is a part and local chapter of the Association of Pakistani Physicians of North America (APPNA). APPNA is one of the largest ethnic medical societies in North America.

At the end of the event Dr. Amera Manzoor Rahman thanks all attendees and the PPS team for help and support.