Has anyone out there ever been a bone marrow donor? I have a cousin with acute mylegenous leukemia who needs a transplant. I am interested to know the details such as what the procedure involves and what is the recovery time for a donor. My health is pretty good, but I have two small children and my cousin lives out of state. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. bk

In terms of recovery, it was fairly smooth (although I didn't have kids at the time). I had to stay in Washington, DC, (where my brother was being treated) about 4 days. His medical insurance company paid for my associated medical and travel expenses.

I do recall feeling tired, especially the first few days, and mildly so for about 2 weeks afterward. The worst was the spinal headaches that I developed (happens only in a very small percentage of cases receiving spinal anesthesia). The headaches went away immediately following a very quick doctors's office procedure.

No lasting scars at the harvest site. All in all I felt honored to have the opportunity and would do it again in a heartbeat! Donna