WHATSOC? Southampton Marrow!

In another of our series of WHATSOCs, the Soton Tab caught up with President Lizzie Jones from Southampton Marrow. We discussed the work the society does to get students involved in donating time and other things in order to help those with life-threatening diseases.

Lovely Lizzie (on the right of course!)

So, what is Southampton Marrow?

We are Southampton Marrow, one of 40 student groups up and down the UK, helping Anthony Nolan save the lives of people with blood cancer such as Leukaemia and Lymphoma. Being students means we can help in a way others can’t. The best donors are young people and nationally we recruit 10,000 of them each year, making up a quarter of all people who donate bone marrow and potentially save lives.

How can people get involved with the society?

You can sign onto the bone marrow register by seeing us at one of our clinics on campus or in the city, or volunteer with us by attending a short, fun training session.

Marrow were at the Bunfight

What events are you running in the near future?

On the 21st we will be at the careers fair and 25th an ASDA bagpack to fundraise. In November we will be attending a local college to recruit young donors and spread the word and on the 6th December we are the chosen charity for Fashion Soc’s Fashion Show!

What’s the best thing you’ve done as part of Marrow Society?

My favourite part is each and every time I talk to someone about the ability they have to potentially save the life of someone with a type of blood cancer and seeing their realisation of this opportunity. The idea that anyone can be a lifesaver is exciting!

One of the campaigns that Southampton Marrow run

Is donating easy to do?

90% of the time donation is relatively similar to giving blood and takes around 4-5 hours, however 10% of the time a minor operation is required during which the cells are taken from the hip under general anaesthetic. For more info please click here.

Jesters or Sobar?

Jesters every single time. I haven’t been to Sobar in two years!

Want to know more?  ‘Like’ the Southampton Marrow Facebook page to join their mailing list and find out more!