Army veteran meets stem cell donor after eight years

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 17:32 · Archive

Craig Sinclair, a British Army veteran, met his stem cell donor Stephen for the first time eight years after receiving a transplant that saved his life from leukaemia.

Craig Sinclair from Aldershot, a British Army veteran, met his stem cell donor Stephen for the first time eight years after receiving a transplant that saved his life from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Craig was diagnosed with the aggressive blood cancer in May 2018. He said that being in the armed services meant 'all the signs and symptoms of being unwell were hidden because of being so physically active'. After being transferred from Frimley Park Hospital to St George's Hospital, he underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a stem cell transplant.

Testing revealed that his sister was not a match, so an unrelated donor was found through the Anthony Nolan register. In 2026, after focusing on recovery during the pandemic, Craig received an email from St George's Hospital about connecting with his anonymous donor. Although he was nervous, Craig met Stephen for the first time.

Craig said: 'Once we met, everything felt easy and natural. We had lunch together and discovered how similar we are. Our families were there too, which made the afternoon more relaxed.'

How it is being reported

• Army veteran meets stem cell donor who gave him a second chance at lifeCraig was diagnosed in May 2018 with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer.Basingstoke Gazette · 24 Oct, 17:00
• Army veteran meets stem cell donor who gave him ‘a second chance in life’Craig was diagnosed in May 2018 with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer.Romsey Advertiser · 24 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Craig Sinclair · Stephen · Aldershot · St George's Hospital · Anthony Nolan · Frimley Park Hospital

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