Fifteen recruits who are just in their second day of training for a 12-week regimen to become law enforcement officers at the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Training Academy in Plain Dealing did something today that could save someone’s life – they registered with Be The Match where they could be potential marrow and stem cell donors.
Brian Allison, representative from Be The Match, talked with the recruits Monday morning to educate them about the need to register.
“Most people aren’t aware that Be The Match exists,” Brian explains, “until someone they love needs a transplant to save their life.”
Bossier Sheriff’s Office has seen firsthand how this program benefits patients battling blood cancers after two of their deputies needed a stem cell transplant in their battle with cancer. Reserve Deputy Gregg Shy recently returned to patrol after receiving his life-saving stem cell transplant to cure him from leukemia.
“One of these cadets who registered today may someday get a phone call telling them that they are the match to save someone’s life, just like Gregg,” said Brian.
“We have been amazed at the support of Brian and Be The Match, as well as the folks at LifeShare Blood Centers,” said Bossier Sheriff Julian Whittington. “They have been outstanding in their support for our deputies battling cancer and leukemia, and we are glad to partner with them to be able to help someone else.”
Those who register for Be The Match should be between the ages of 18 & 44. To find out more, go to BeTheMatch.org.
