Tyler Genneken, of Greenwood, was diagnosed with leukemia three years ago and seemed to be rounding the corner to resuming the normal life of a teenage boy. Tragically, he relapsed this summer and has spent the last few months fighting for his life. His only chance at survival is a bone marrow transplant. No one in his family is a match and there is no match for Tyler in the Be the Match Registry, formerly known as the National Marrow Registry.

Seventy percent of people who need a bone marrow transplant will not find a match in their family and will need to turn to the national registry. Less than four-out-of-10 people who need a bone marrow transplant ever receive one. Building the number and diversity of donors in the registry is essential to saving thousands of lives for decades to come.

Tyler, his family and those associated with this event want there to be meaning that comes from his struggle and the struggle of so many others for whom a bone marrow match is never found. People can sign up for the registry with a simple, painless cheek swab and by completing a short form.

Help us respond to Tyler’s call. Register to save lives during the Tyler Genneken / Riley Children Be the Match Bone Marrow Drive. Visit www.RileyKids.org/fortyler to learn more.

You can help us bring hope to every family. The total cost to add a new member to the registry is about $100. Be the Match registry still needs contributions from individuals and organizations to help create the opportunity for more people to join the registry.

Riley Children's Foundation is pleased to direct your gift to help add more members to the registry. Make life-saving transplants a reality for all patients. Donate now.