Donor for George: A Call for Bone Marrow Test Volunteers - 6 June

George Roos, a 25-year-old from Frankfort, has recently been hospitalised with an undiagnosed illness. Doctors aren’t quite sure what’s going on yet, but what they do know is that George’s blood work has come back with some worrying results, his white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets are all critically low.

He’s currently in hospital in Pretoria, and while tests continue, one thing is certain: George needs a bone marrow transplant, urgently.

The Ask: It’s Easier Than You Think

George’s friends and family are asking the public to come forward and get tested as potential bone marrow donors. The process isn’t scary, expensive, or even time-consuming. If you’re between the ages of 16 and 45 and don’t have an autoimmune disease, you’re eligible to take the test.

Testing involves nothing more than a simple mouth swab. No needles, no drama. And if you’re a match? You won’t even need to donate actual bone marrow, the cells can be harvested from a blood donation. No one’s asking you to lie on an operating table. Just roll up your sleeve.

For those aged 16 to 18, you’ll just need a signed letter of consent from a parent or guardian.

Event Details: How to Get Involved

If you’d like to be tested, pop in at the following event:

• Where: Roots Venue, MC Roode Drive, Potchefstroom

• When: Friday, 6 June 2025

• Time: 9:00 AM – 02:00 PM

• No need to book, and there’s no charge. Just bring yourself, your ID, and maybe a mate or two.

Contact for More Info

For any questions or if you just want to double-check the details, feel free to contact:

• Jollien Engelbrecht: 072 126 4409

• Ellarie Du Plessis: 060 768 7243

It’s a small gesture with the potential to save a life. So if you’ve got a bit of time spit to consider heading over and helping George get that fighting chance.