Donor Kindness Makes Sense
Actress and DKMS Ambassador Priya Davdra is working with DKMS UK this September to raise awareness and encourage everyone to sign up as a stem cell donor.
Donor Kindness Makes Sense
Occupation: Priya is a British actress, known for portraying the role of Iqra Ahmed on the BBC soap opera EastEnders from 2019 to 2022.
Hopes for 2023, current hopes: I would like to see a significant rise in stem cell donors on the DKMS register this year, especially from the South Asian community. This will ultimately help save thousands of lives.
What amusing or interesting phrase do you think the initials DKMS could stand for in English?: Donor Kindness Makes Sense
What does DKMS mean to you?
DKMS means hope. For many people, the only cure lies in a stranger’s hands, someone they haven’t met, someone who has gone out of their way to donate. For me, this charity enables people to come together and make a significant impact.
What is your relationship to DKMS?
DKMS' amazing work was highlighted to me some time ago and I was instantly drawn to working with the team to make an active difference in people's lives.
Whether that involves fundraising events, campaigns, working closely with the families that are suffering, it’s about making positive change and raising awareness.
In 2021 I took on the massive challenge of the London Marathon! It was a great opportunity to raise awareness and funds for DKMS. Overall, I raised over £1,300 to help them register more potential lifesavers.
Have you, your close family or friends had experience of blood cancer?
I know of friends and family members that have suffered from this condition and unfortunately were not able to find a stem cell match. Grieving with the families made me realise how things could have been so different, which spurs me to continue to campaign.
Ideas for encouraging more stem cell donors
I think it’s all about learning and taking action. Helping everyone to learn what the disease is, how it’s treated and how easy and simple it is for people to take action and become a donor. I
- Stem cell and bone marrow transplant (NHS website) - five main stages of the transplant process.
- Donation Explained - our step-by-step guide to registering as a stem cell donor.
- What is blood cancer? - overviews of stem cells, types of blood cancers and blood disorders, and their treatment.
