09/2026
You could be the match.
This Blood Cancer Awareness Month, help more patients get closer to the match they’re waiting for. Get swabbed at a September event — or join our free September 24 conversation to learn why representation matters and how you can take action.
Avery & his mom, Michelle Jones
Avery found his match.
Avery Jones is 11 years old, a stem cell transplant recipient and a SickKids Ambassador.
His sister was his match. Not every patient is that fortunate.
For many people with blood cancer and other serious illnesses, finding a matching stem cell donor means relying on someone outside their family.
That’s why who is on the registry matters.
A stem cell match is about more than blood type.
Matching depends on inherited genetic markers. Patients are often more likely to find a well-matched donor among people who share similar ancestry.
That makes diversity on the stem cell registry critical.
2.29%
of Canada’s stem cell registrants were identified as Black in the September 2026 registry composition data.
A more diverse registry means more possibilities for patients searching for a match.
Find the Donor Drive 4 Dorothy team at these Ontario events. Each one is a chance to ask questions, learn how matching works, and — where swabbing is offered — take the next step with Canadian Blood Services.
AfroCan isn’t just an event—it’s a movement that celebrates the rich heritage of African and Caribbean cultures through music, food, art, and connection.
BFUTR is Canada’s premier tech summit connecting diverse talent, enterprise leaders, and investors shaping the future of AI and innovation.
The Hope & Inspiration Fundraising Gala is a powerful evening of hope, generosity and community—uniting supporters to raise vital funds, stand with patients and help give more families the chance of a life-saving stem cell match.
Official donor registration, eligibility screening and donor packages are managed by Canadian Blood Services.
Learn about the stem cell registryVisit a participating Match Made in September event and learn what joining the stem cell registry involves.
If you are eligible and choose to join, a simple cheek swab helps begin the registry process.
Canadian Blood Services will contact you if you are ever identified as a potential match.
Attending a swab event does not guarantee you will be called to donate. You may remain on the registry until you are identified as a potential match. Final eligibility language should follow current Canadian Blood Services guidance.
Get the facts. Hear the stories. Know why it matters.
45-minute panel conversation · 15-minute live Q&A
Can’t make it live? Register anyway and we’ll send the replay to registered attendees.
What representation looks like in Canada’s blood and stem cell donation system — what has changed and what is still missing.
Hear AJ and his mother Michelle share what finding a stem cell match meant for their family.
Understand how registry registration works, what happens after you join and how to help even if you are not eligible to donate.
Avery & his mom, Michelle Jones
Avery “AJ” Jones + Michelle Jones
AJ and Michelle share what it means for a family to search for — and find — a stem cell match.
AJ is an 11-year-old stem cell transplant recipient and SickKids Ambassador. Michelle is AJ’s mother.
Co-founder & Chair
Donor Drive 4 Dorothy
Blood cancer survivor, AI strategist, speaker and advocate for Black stem cell donors.
Associate Director of Donation Policy · Community Hematologist
Canadian Blood Services
Hematologist and Assistant Professor focused on donor and population health.
Medical Doctor · Community Health Advocate
Founder & Executive Director, Know Your Blood
Physician and advocate making blood health knowledge practical and accessible.
Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Canadian Blood Services
Equity and inclusion leader advancing belonging across healthcare and public service.
Vice President, Information Technology
Canadian Blood Services
Technology leader helping build a more inclusive and responsive blood system.
This conversation is for you if you:
Anyone. The session is free and open to the public.
No. You can attend to learn, support someone affected by blood cancer or help share accurate information in your community.
No. Webinar registration and joining the Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry are separate actions. The webinar will explain how registry registration works.
Yes. The session includes 15 minutes of live audience Q&A.
Online. The event platform and joining link will be sent to registered attendees.
Register anyway. A replay will be sent to registered attendees.
Visit a participating Match Made in September swab event or use the official Canadian Blood Services registry information. Eligibility guidance is always provided by Canadian Blood Services.
Questions about eligibility or medical procedure are answered by Canadian Blood Services.
One month. Two ways to take action. One opportunity to help more patients get closer to the match they’re waiting for.