I wanted to join the list more than a decade ago but was somewhat hesitant. My buddy (he and I both donate blood) said he'd go too. We attended a background meeting, registered, and they took a blood sample. Seven or eight years later, my buddy got *the* call. A few further tests to confirm a full match and he was selected. Right up to the point where you make the appointment to go in for harvesting, you can back out. But once you agree, they start destroying any remaining marrow cells in the recipient. His marrow was harvested and flown to the recipient's hospital for transplanting.

After a year, if both parties want, they are put into contact with each other. My buddy has met (several times) with the recipient's family. The meetings, not surprisingly, are somewhat charged with emotion. He is still somewhat reticent about talking about it. His attitude boils down to "it was an opportunity to help; of course I did it; wouldn't anyone?"

I am more than a little surprised that there is a registration fee in the US (perhaps you can write it off in your tax return). Even so ... it's a small price to pay.

Me? I never got called and have passed the age where they will use me as a donor (60). So, if you're worried about making the donation, take a friend -- maybe your friend will be the one who gets the call.