Recently, we were informed that we as a grassroot organization, that receives no federal funding, would have to cover the cost of signing up bone marrow donors. Considering, we established NJ Bill A2168/S2038 - Jaden's Law, we have increased awareness about bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donation within various ethnic communities through out America and the world with the help of various celebrities and major networks.
In 2010, we were informed that the only way we could become a recruitment group for BE THE MATCH we would have to register 1500 donors for the year as a volunteer recruitment group for three years. Even though, we established legislation including the NMDP. We were emailed paperwork, that was different from what our boardmember Akiim DeShay found on their website. In addition in 2010, through various groups we were able to do so, however, we were informed that did not count. In addition, we worked with groups that were compensated for our efforts, meaning BE THE MATCH recruitment groups are paid per donor, which was unknown at the time, but we later found out.
In early 2011, after our appearance on BET we received thousands of calls from potenital donors, BE THE MATCH recruiters, emails and post that our appearance helped them with registering or signing up donors to register. However, we later found out our organization would not receive any credit for doing so, because we were NOT a recognized recruitment group for BE THE MATCH. Therefore, we decided to work with LINK TO LIFE NETWORK, INC (The only African-American Recruitment group for BE THE MATCH). While we thought this would be a perfect partnership and assist in increasing awareness within the African-American and various ethnic communities, unfortunately found out later, it was not in the eyes of BE THE MATCH. This partnership would consist of two minority underrepresented groups coming together and would mean the ability to recruit more ethnic donors, in addition to, increasing the available donors for various ethnic patients in need. Rationally, this would be something good, unfortunately, the result was LTLN funding was cut, which led to only allowing Preserve Our Legacy the ability to register 100 donors for free, anything over 100 we would have to pay $100 per donor, no matter if they are from the priority underrepresented Ethnic groups or Caucasian. However, based on the goal imposed by BE THE MATCH, which we are required to register 1500 people a year to become recognized by BE THE MATCH. While we understand that the economy has made it hard for not-for-profits, however, there are four recruitment groups based in New York State including LTLN, Inc. and LTLN receives the least amount of funding and recruitment goals of the four. Some groups are allowed funding and the ability to recruit 40,000 individuals in one year, while LTLN receives less than 1000 for the year. Even though they are the ONLY African-American recruitment group. New Jersey bill A2168/S2038, Jaden's Law, is historically the only legislation that speaks about educating individuals about bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC). Therefore, we are confused why we could not receive additional funding and increased recrutiment goals to assist in increasing the numbers of the underrepresented. The federal funding states these minority groups should be made priority. Here is part of the legislation H.R. 2520:
(e) Bone Marrow Recruitment; Priorities; Information and Education-
(1) RECRUITMENT; PRIORITIES- The Program shall carry out activities for the recruitment of bone marrow donors. Such recruitment program shall identify populations that are underrepresented among potential donors enrolled with the Program. In the case of populations that are identified under the preceding sentence:
(A) The Program shall give priority to carrying out activities under this part to increase representation for such populations in order to enable a member of such a population, to the extent practicable, to have a probability of finding a suitable unrelated donor that is comparable to the probability that an individual who is not a member of an underrepresented population would have.
(B) The Program shall consider racial and ethnic minority groups (including persons of mixed ancestry) to be populations that have been identified for purposes of this paragraph, and shall carry out subparagraph (A) with respect to such populations.
Therefore, for 2012 if we want to become a recruitment group for BE THE MATCH, we will have to cover 1400 individuals that we register in the amount of $140,000. Unfortunately, due to this new financial burden imposed to us, we will not be able or it will be difficult to register bone marrow donors!
Therefore, we are asking for financial support from our community to help cover these expenses as well as speaking to your local legislator, congress person, city council person or political leader to help us!!
If you are interested in assisting or interviews, please contact me shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org or visit our website: www.preserveourlegacy.org.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012 - NEW ACTIONS...BONE MARROW DONORS COMPENSATED
HAPPY NEW YEARS FROM THE PRESERVE OUR LEGACY FAMILY!
I hope everyone obtained what they wanted for the holidays. I wanted to wait until after the holidays to discuss what has been an extreme topic from numerous of individuals that know the work that is done by our company. In December, the 9th circuit panel of three judges voted unanimously to overturn the ruling of the NOTA of bone marrow donors not being compensated.
According to the 9th circuit panel, due to new medical techniques, now,there is an essentially risk-free technique — called apheresis — for obtaining the stem cells not from hip bones but from the arms — the bloodstreams — of donors as they rest for six or so hours in a recliner (retrieved from http://www.newsmax.com/GeorgeWill/Bone-Marrow-Donors-Compensated/2011/12/30/id/422579).
From our perspective and our relationship with Kumud Majumder, we, as an organization, believe that compensation, will definitely increase the level of survival for patients in need. However, many must understand the odds of being a match are still very slim due to the limited number of donors from various ethnic communities. Presently, five ethnic groups, Hispanic, African-Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders, American Indians are comprised between 28-31% of the National Registry for bone marrow & Umbilical cord blood donation, while Caucasians are between 61 to over 70% of the registry for bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donors. These staggering percentages have been in the same variation for over 20 years (since 1991 joining all groups together for National Efforts). Those from various ethnic diverse groups have increased the least, this is why my husband and I started Preserve Our Legacy to try to make a difference and increasing awareness in such ethnic communities and establish Jaden's Law throughout America.
This new ruling would possibly encourage more individuals to sign up, in hopes of being compensated. Although it is not a direct cash payment, it can be in a form of scholarships, housing allowances, or contributions to charities chosen by donors. The program would initially target potential minority and mixed-race donors who are likely to have marrow cell types that are the most difficult to match(retrieved from http://www.newsmax.com/GeorgeWill/Bone-Marrow-Donors-Compensated/2011/12/30/id/422579). Some believe this would be a wrong motive, however, in the possibility to save anothers life, what other option can be applied. Many are familiar with Jaden's story. In 2006, there was only 4% available for African-Americans. Imagine if this ruling pertaining to NOTA was established, maybe Jaden would be here today, along with the thousands that have lost their lives.
We just want people to be aware that you still have to be a genetic match in order to be a donor. The more ethnic people that register the better the odds of someone finding a match.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. has a lot on the horizon for 2012! Branching the Preserve Our Legacy Umbilical Cord Blood program to different states, establishing Jaden's Law in other states, and MUCH MORE to come. For more information about us: www.preserveourlegacy.org
I hope everyone obtained what they wanted for the holidays. I wanted to wait until after the holidays to discuss what has been an extreme topic from numerous of individuals that know the work that is done by our company. In December, the 9th circuit panel of three judges voted unanimously to overturn the ruling of the NOTA of bone marrow donors not being compensated.
According to the 9th circuit panel, due to new medical techniques, now,there is an essentially risk-free technique — called apheresis — for obtaining the stem cells not from hip bones but from the arms — the bloodstreams — of donors as they rest for six or so hours in a recliner (retrieved from http://www.newsmax.com/GeorgeWill/Bone-Marrow-Donors-Compensated/2011/12/30/id/422579).
From our perspective and our relationship with Kumud Majumder, we, as an organization, believe that compensation, will definitely increase the level of survival for patients in need. However, many must understand the odds of being a match are still very slim due to the limited number of donors from various ethnic communities. Presently, five ethnic groups, Hispanic, African-Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders, American Indians are comprised between 28-31% of the National Registry for bone marrow & Umbilical cord blood donation, while Caucasians are between 61 to over 70% of the registry for bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donors. These staggering percentages have been in the same variation for over 20 years (since 1991 joining all groups together for National Efforts). Those from various ethnic diverse groups have increased the least, this is why my husband and I started Preserve Our Legacy to try to make a difference and increasing awareness in such ethnic communities and establish Jaden's Law throughout America.
This new ruling would possibly encourage more individuals to sign up, in hopes of being compensated. Although it is not a direct cash payment, it can be in a form of scholarships, housing allowances, or contributions to charities chosen by donors. The program would initially target potential minority and mixed-race donors who are likely to have marrow cell types that are the most difficult to match(retrieved from http://www.newsmax.com/GeorgeWill/Bone-Marrow-Donors-Compensated/2011/12/30/id/422579). Some believe this would be a wrong motive, however, in the possibility to save anothers life, what other option can be applied. Many are familiar with Jaden's story. In 2006, there was only 4% available for African-Americans. Imagine if this ruling pertaining to NOTA was established, maybe Jaden would be here today, along with the thousands that have lost their lives.
We just want people to be aware that you still have to be a genetic match in order to be a donor. The more ethnic people that register the better the odds of someone finding a match.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. has a lot on the horizon for 2012! Branching the Preserve Our Legacy Umbilical Cord Blood program to different states, establishing Jaden's Law in other states, and MUCH MORE to come. For more information about us: www.preserveourlegacy.org
Saturday, November 5, 2011
PRESERVE OUR LEGACY, INC. TO HOST "PRESERVE SEUN'S DREAM" FUNDRAISER ON NOVEMBER 16, 2011
New York, NY – Life provides individuals with the opportunity to fulfill their desired dreams. However, if you are diagnosed with a disease that requires a bone marrow or umbilical cord blood transplant then all your dreams can be brought to a halt. The only focus at that point is survival. The situation is even more dire if you are from an ethnic group that is underrepresented on the bone marrow registry. But, for one individual that went through such a horrific situation he made a choice to focus on his dream. Seun Adebiyi made sure he thought of staying alive to fulfill his childhood dream of representing Nigeria at the Olympics. On November 16, 2011, Preserve Our Legacy will host their 2nd Annual Fundraiser themed “Preserve Seun’s Dream” at Chocolat Restaurant located at 2217-23 Frederick Douglass Blvd., NY, NY 10026 from 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm. This event is sponsored by Harlem Native Corwin J. Breeden.
Seun Adebiyi in 2009, after graduating from Yale Law and in the midst of training for the 2014 Olympics, was diagnosed with two aggressive cancers – stem cell leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma. While battling this disease and going through treatment. Seun stayed focused on his goal of participating in the next Winter Olympics. In January 2010, he received an umbilical cord blood donation that saved his life. He is now focused on raising awareness about umbilical cord blood donations, while continuing to train for 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia. When asked about his goals, he replied “I want to help someone else receive a second chance at life, and the Olympics are the ideal platform to promote awareness, “says Seun Adebiyi, Olympic hopeful.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit, whose mission is to educate individuals, especially those from various ethnic groups, about the benefits of stem cells through treatment options provided via peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC), bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donations. The organization also spearheaded Jaden’s Law to increase awareness about PBSC and bone marrow donation within various ethnic communities. Preserve Our Legacy launched the first educational program, P.O.L. Umbilical Cord Blood Program at Harlem Hospital in December 2010. Since Jaden’s death, Preserve Our Legacy has been advocating to increase awareness about the need of various ethnic donors, in addition to, having those that register step up when called upon to help a patient. “We are happy to team up with Seun to help him fulfill his Olympic Dream. He was our primary supporter with our program at Harlem Hospital when we started. Our fundraising goal is to help him with some of his expenses to achieve his dream and we will do just that, while educating ethnic individuals throughout the world about bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donation,” says Brett Melius, Co-Founder of Preserve Our Legacy, Inc.
The proceeds will be used to recruit bone marrow donors and support Preserve Our Legacy’s innovative cord blood program. Preserve Our Legacy will also assist Seun with his Skeleton training and equipment as he seeks to use his Olympic quest to raise awareness about bone marrow and cord blood donations.
Tickets are $100.00, you can purchase your tickets online at
P.O.L. “Preserve Seun’s Dream” Fundraiser
Location: Choclat Restaurant 2217 Frederick Douglass Blvd (120th & 8th Ave)
Date: November 16, 2011 Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
For more info contact Preserve Our Legacy : 877-778-3623
Eleanor Griffin, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. ext 720 or Eleanor.griffin@preserveourlegacy.org, Shana Melius, ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org or Brett Melius, ext 703 or brett.melius@preserveourlegacy.org
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Seun Adebiyi in 2009, after graduating from Yale Law and in the midst of training for the 2014 Olympics, was diagnosed with two aggressive cancers – stem cell leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma. While battling this disease and going through treatment. Seun stayed focused on his goal of participating in the next Winter Olympics. In January 2010, he received an umbilical cord blood donation that saved his life. He is now focused on raising awareness about umbilical cord blood donations, while continuing to train for 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia. When asked about his goals, he replied “I want to help someone else receive a second chance at life, and the Olympics are the ideal platform to promote awareness, “says Seun Adebiyi, Olympic hopeful.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit, whose mission is to educate individuals, especially those from various ethnic groups, about the benefits of stem cells through treatment options provided via peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC), bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donations. The organization also spearheaded Jaden’s Law to increase awareness about PBSC and bone marrow donation within various ethnic communities. Preserve Our Legacy launched the first educational program, P.O.L. Umbilical Cord Blood Program at Harlem Hospital in December 2010. Since Jaden’s death, Preserve Our Legacy has been advocating to increase awareness about the need of various ethnic donors, in addition to, having those that register step up when called upon to help a patient. “We are happy to team up with Seun to help him fulfill his Olympic Dream. He was our primary supporter with our program at Harlem Hospital when we started. Our fundraising goal is to help him with some of his expenses to achieve his dream and we will do just that, while educating ethnic individuals throughout the world about bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donation,” says Brett Melius, Co-Founder of Preserve Our Legacy, Inc.
The proceeds will be used to recruit bone marrow donors and support Preserve Our Legacy’s innovative cord blood program. Preserve Our Legacy will also assist Seun with his Skeleton training and equipment as he seeks to use his Olympic quest to raise awareness about bone marrow and cord blood donations.
Tickets are $100.00, you can purchase your tickets online at
P.O.L. “Preserve Seun’s Dream” Fundraiser
Location: Choclat Restaurant 2217 Frederick Douglass Blvd (120th & 8th Ave)
Date: November 16, 2011 Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
For more info contact Preserve Our Legacy : 877-778-3623
Eleanor Griffin, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. ext 720 or Eleanor.griffin@preserveourlegacy.org, Shana Melius, ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org or Brett Melius, ext 703 or brett.melius@preserveourlegacy.org
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Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Preserve Our Legacy to host 2nd Annual Cord Blood and Bone Marrow Awarenes Week in November
Save the Date
New York, NY –In 2010, Preserve Our Legacy hosted its first week of awareness campaign for their 10-year old client LJ Jones, who was in need of a bone marrow transplant. This year, Preserve Our Legacy partnered with Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright, the YMCA of Greater New York, Metropolitan College of New York, The Friends of Harlem Hospital, Harlem Hospital and 1199 SEIU to host their second annual week of bone marrow and umbilical cord blood awareness to help find a donors for various ethnic patients in need starting November 14-19, 2011.
Preserve Our Legacy, the organization that spearheaded Jaden’s Law, and Assemblyman Wright will be joined this year by Link to Life Network, Inc., the only African-American recruitment group for Be The Match, The Friends of Harlem Hospital, The YMCA of Greater New York, Metropolitan College of New York and 1199 SEIU will host six donor drives to applaud prospective bone marrow donors for a quick registration and cheek swab. This year, Preserve Our Legacy will also offer pregnant women the opportunity to register as umbilical cord blood donors for the Preserve Our Legacy Umbilical Cord Blood Program. These drives will be hosted at various YMCA locations in Bronx, Harlem, Queens, Brooklyn, 1199 SEIU and MCNY.
“Last year with the help of Assemblyman Keith Wright, The YMCA of Greater New York and MCNY our awareness campaign was a success. I am delighted that they are our partners this year and we are honored to add The Friends of Harlem, Harlem Hospital and 1199 SEIU this year, in addition to, various locations throughout America. Our goal for this week of awareness will be to help at least one patient find a match,” said Preserve Our Legacy Founder and President Brett Melius.
Earlier this year, Shana Melius’ appeared on BET’s 106 & Park and registered hosts Terrence and Rosci as bone marrow donors. Preserve Our Legacy also received a resolution from Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright and Governor Cuomo naming May 3, 2011 officially Bone Marrow and Umbilical Cord Blood day for New York State, recognizing Preserve Our Legacy’s efforts with increase awareness within various ethnic communities.
Registering as a bone marrow donor is a safe, yet easy process and painless. The entire registration process is about eight (8) minutes. Registering as an umbilical cord blood donor is for pregnant women and completed before delivery of the baby. The collection is completed after baby is born.
Celebrities and professional athletes will also team up in support of Preserve Our Legacy awareness week. More information will be provided at a later date.
Visit http://www.preserveourlegacy.org to learn more about additional drive locations during this week.
Contact:
Shana Melius for P.O.L., 877-778-3623 x702, shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org.
Shyra Johnson for P.O.L., 877-778-3623 x718, shyra.johnson@preserveourlegacy.org.
Ben Rosen for Assemblyman Wright, 518-455-4793, rosenb@assembly.state.ny.us.
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New York, NY –In 2010, Preserve Our Legacy hosted its first week of awareness campaign for their 10-year old client LJ Jones, who was in need of a bone marrow transplant. This year, Preserve Our Legacy partnered with Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright, the YMCA of Greater New York, Metropolitan College of New York, The Friends of Harlem Hospital, Harlem Hospital and 1199 SEIU to host their second annual week of bone marrow and umbilical cord blood awareness to help find a donors for various ethnic patients in need starting November 14-19, 2011.
Preserve Our Legacy, the organization that spearheaded Jaden’s Law, and Assemblyman Wright will be joined this year by Link to Life Network, Inc., the only African-American recruitment group for Be The Match, The Friends of Harlem Hospital, The YMCA of Greater New York, Metropolitan College of New York and 1199 SEIU will host six donor drives to applaud prospective bone marrow donors for a quick registration and cheek swab. This year, Preserve Our Legacy will also offer pregnant women the opportunity to register as umbilical cord blood donors for the Preserve Our Legacy Umbilical Cord Blood Program. These drives will be hosted at various YMCA locations in Bronx, Harlem, Queens, Brooklyn, 1199 SEIU and MCNY.
“Last year with the help of Assemblyman Keith Wright, The YMCA of Greater New York and MCNY our awareness campaign was a success. I am delighted that they are our partners this year and we are honored to add The Friends of Harlem, Harlem Hospital and 1199 SEIU this year, in addition to, various locations throughout America. Our goal for this week of awareness will be to help at least one patient find a match,” said Preserve Our Legacy Founder and President Brett Melius.
Earlier this year, Shana Melius’ appeared on BET’s 106 & Park and registered hosts Terrence and Rosci as bone marrow donors. Preserve Our Legacy also received a resolution from Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright and Governor Cuomo naming May 3, 2011 officially Bone Marrow and Umbilical Cord Blood day for New York State, recognizing Preserve Our Legacy’s efforts with increase awareness within various ethnic communities.
Registering as a bone marrow donor is a safe, yet easy process and painless. The entire registration process is about eight (8) minutes. Registering as an umbilical cord blood donor is for pregnant women and completed before delivery of the baby. The collection is completed after baby is born.
Celebrities and professional athletes will also team up in support of Preserve Our Legacy awareness week. More information will be provided at a later date.
Visit http://www.preserveourlegacy.org to learn more about additional drive locations during this week.
Contact:
Shana Melius for P.O.L., 877-778-3623 x702, shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org.
Shyra Johnson for P.O.L., 877-778-3623 x718, shyra.johnson@preserveourlegacy.org.
Ben Rosen for Assemblyman Wright, 518-455-4793, rosenb@assembly.state.ny.us.
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Tuesday, August 9, 2011
PRESERVE OUR LEGACY PARTNERS WITH LINK TO LIFE NETWORK TO EDUCATE AND INCREASE AWARENESS ABOUT BONE MARROW DONATION
Historical Partnership to increase awareness
New York, NY – Individuals with an ethnic background are at a disadvantage when it comes to finding a bone marrow match on the National Registry. According to the U.S. Census report, there are 311,899, 603 people in the United States and out of population, only 9 million people are registered on the National BE THE MATCH Registry as bone marrow donors. According to the C.W. Bill Young Transplantation website, in 2010, out of 9 million registered volunteers, only 28% (approximately 2.5 million volunteer donors) are represented by individuals from ethnic backgrounds. However, there is a new historical partnership that will embark on increasing the numbers of ethnic volunteer donors – that is Preserve Our Legacy and Link to Life Network, Inc.
Link to Life Network, Inc. (LTLN), is a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit organization, which was formed in 1992 to assist the NMDP in its efforts to register minority bone marrow donors. LTLN is the “only” African American official recruitment group of the National Marrow Donor Program/BE THE MATCH registry. Their mission is to increase the opportunity for minorities with life threatening diseases to obtain bone marrow transplants by increasing public awareness of the need for minority potential bone marrow registrants.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. (POL) is a 501 (c)(3), not-for-profit organization that was started after the devastating loss of a friend’s son named Jaden Hilton. The mission of the organization is to educate (edu-tain) individuals and create awareness about the benefits of stem cells and treatment options they provide, through peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC), bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donation. In efforts to increase awareness, POL founders fought and co-wrote A2168/S2038 in New Jersey. This historical legislation was established when NJ Governor Christie signed their legislation into law on August 25, 2010. The organization also received a resolution from New York Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright naming May 3, “Bone Marrow and Umbilical Cord Blood Day” officially for New York State.
These organizations have joined forces to increase awareness within the ethnic community about the benefits of becoming a registered volunteer to help save a life. Both organizations have a calendar full of events that will be announced in the near future.
For more information about Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. log onto to or contact 877.778.3623: Shana Melius, ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org, for more information about Link to Life Network, Inc. log onto or contact 917 593-4174 or michaelmarrowman@aol.com. For more information about C.W. Bill Young Transplantation Program Registry Data log on to: http://bloodcell.transplant.hrsa.gov/RESEARCH/Registry_Data/index.html
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Friday, April 15, 2011
PRESERVE OUR LEGACY & ASSEMBLYMAN KEITH WRIGHT HOLD FIRST ANNUAL BONE MARROW & UMBILICAL CORD BLOOD TRANSPLANT DAY IN NEW YORK STATE
Calls on New Yorkers to help with awareness campaign for Jaden’s Law A.4294 & goal to register 25K minority bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donors for 2011
New York, NY – There are thousands of patients struggling to find a donor on the National Registry when faced with the dilemma of needing a peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC), bone marrow or umbilical cord blood transplants. However, Preserve Our Legacy has partnered with Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright to galvanize the support of New Yorkers to help those minority patients in need as well as awareness for New York Assembly Bill 4294 titled Jaden’s Law with the first annual bone marrow and umbilical cord blood day of Advocacy in Albany on May 3, 2011.
Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright re-introduced Jaden’s Law, A.4294, in January 2011. Jaden’s Law New York, requires that commissioner of the Department of Health to prepare an online brochure based on information derived from the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), which may be downloaded by physicians and designed to inform patients of the option to become bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) donors by registering with the NMDP. The legislation also includes bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) donations to the New York State donate life registry as well as facilitates registration through voter registration and forms an driver license applications.
The current National Registry contains a registry of millions. For a successful transplant, the tissue type of a bone marrow donor or a cord blood unit needs to match the patient's as closely as possible. Tissue types are inherited, so patients are more likely to match someone who shares their racial or ethnic heritage. Therefore, it remains difficult to match many patients, especially those from racially and ethnically diverse communities. Like bone marrow, cord blood is rich in the blood-forming cells that can be used in transplants for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and many other life-threatening diseases. These cells are not embryonic stem cells but contain life-saving qualities. There is a tremendous need for more people to join the registry and expectant parents to donate umbilical cord blood. “This legislation will help more people receive a transplant and more families will have a future filled with hope”, says Jeanine Johnson, Esq., Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit that was started by Robert and Shana Melius, after the devastating loss of a 3-year old African-American boy named Jaden Hilton. The Melius’ made it their life’s mission to educate individuals, especially various ethnic groups, about the benefits of adults stem cells through treatment options available through just an act to help “save a life” through donation. Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. has partnered with Harlem Hospital, celebrities, political figures and various minority groups to create the awareness within the minority community.
For A4294 Jaden’s Law information log onto to: http://www.preserveourlegacy.org
For more event or PR information contact Shana, Compliance contact Tiffani:
Shana Melius, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877-778-3623 ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org, Tiffani Hilton, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877.778.3623 ext. 704 or tiffani.hilton@preserveourlegacy.org
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New York, NY – There are thousands of patients struggling to find a donor on the National Registry when faced with the dilemma of needing a peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC), bone marrow or umbilical cord blood transplants. However, Preserve Our Legacy has partnered with Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright to galvanize the support of New Yorkers to help those minority patients in need as well as awareness for New York Assembly Bill 4294 titled Jaden’s Law with the first annual bone marrow and umbilical cord blood day of Advocacy in Albany on May 3, 2011.
Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright re-introduced Jaden’s Law, A.4294, in January 2011. Jaden’s Law New York, requires that commissioner of the Department of Health to prepare an online brochure based on information derived from the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), which may be downloaded by physicians and designed to inform patients of the option to become bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) donors by registering with the NMDP. The legislation also includes bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) donations to the New York State donate life registry as well as facilitates registration through voter registration and forms an driver license applications.
The current National Registry contains a registry of millions. For a successful transplant, the tissue type of a bone marrow donor or a cord blood unit needs to match the patient's as closely as possible. Tissue types are inherited, so patients are more likely to match someone who shares their racial or ethnic heritage. Therefore, it remains difficult to match many patients, especially those from racially and ethnically diverse communities. Like bone marrow, cord blood is rich in the blood-forming cells that can be used in transplants for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and many other life-threatening diseases. These cells are not embryonic stem cells but contain life-saving qualities. There is a tremendous need for more people to join the registry and expectant parents to donate umbilical cord blood. “This legislation will help more people receive a transplant and more families will have a future filled with hope”, says Jeanine Johnson, Esq., Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Keith L.T. Wright.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit that was started by Robert and Shana Melius, after the devastating loss of a 3-year old African-American boy named Jaden Hilton. The Melius’ made it their life’s mission to educate individuals, especially various ethnic groups, about the benefits of adults stem cells through treatment options available through just an act to help “save a life” through donation. Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. has partnered with Harlem Hospital, celebrities, political figures and various minority groups to create the awareness within the minority community.
For A4294 Jaden’s Law information log onto to: http://www.preserveourlegacy.org
For more event or PR information contact Shana, Compliance contact Tiffani:
Shana Melius, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877-778-3623 ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org, Tiffani Hilton, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877.778.3623 ext. 704 or tiffani.hilton@preserveourlegacy.org
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Saturday, April 2, 2011
FORMER BET REALITY STAR LANDON DAIS DEDICATES 30TH BIRTHDAY TO HELP RAISE FUNDS AND REGISTER DONORS FOR PRESERVE OUR LEGACY, INC
For Immediate Release
March 31, 2011
As Finance Committee Co-Chair, Dais provides support to help register minorities For goal of 25,000 for 2011 on April 5, 2011 at Harlem Lanes
New York, NY – It was announced today Former BET Reality show cast member of Harlem Heights and recently elected Co-Chair of Preserve Our Legacy Finance Committee, Landon Dais will dedicate his 30th birthday to help raise funds and register minority donors on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at Harlem Lanes, which is located at 2116 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd, #3, New York, NY 10027 from 6:30pm-8:30pm.
Landon Dais is the founder of Landon Dais Associates, a political strategy and community relations firm located in New York City. In this role, he oversees all business development, and strategic direction of the company. Landon is firm believer in giving back to the community and has been extremely active in his hometown, Harlem, New York. His commitment to the Harlem community was captured on the BET Docushow “Harlem Heights”. The show also chronicled his candidacy for City Council, his community service initiatives and his tenure as President of the Uptown Democratic Club. Landon is active on boards and non-profit committees and participates in many community and youth oriented programs across the country. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Co-Chair of the Finance Committee on the Board of Directors for Preserve Our Legacy.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit that spearheaded Jaden’s Law and educating individuals, especially minorities, about the benefits of stem cells and treatment options they provide through peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC), bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donation. Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. also partnered with Harlem Hospital in December 2010 to launch the Preserve Our Legacy Umbilical Cord Blood Program, which provides minority pregnant woman the option to donate their umbilical cord blood to assist in increasing the numbers for minorities within the National Registry. The organization recently announced their goal of registering 25,000 minority donors for 2011. These donors would provide thousands of minority patients that are in need, the “fighting” chance to live, especially, 10-year old LJ, 5-year old Nyiah, 13-year old Shakobe, 11-year old Isaiah and various other minority patients throughout America.
Since Jaden’s death, Preserve Our Legacy has been advocating to increase awareness about the need of minority donors, in addition to, having those that register to step up when called to help a patient. This event, which takes place during their 45-day awareness campaign, will assist in spreading the word about the need of minority donors. “Instead of having a big celebrity for my 30th birthday, I would rather organize a fundraiser for P.O.L. that will assist in saving the lives of young children, so they can reach their 30th birthday and beyond.” says, Landon Dais, Preserve Our Legacy Board member.
For event information log onto to: http://www.preserveourlegacy.org
For ticket information log onto: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1437996085
For more event or PR information contact, Shana, For PR contact Lexi, For donation contact Tiffani:
Shana Melius, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877-778-3623 ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org
Lexi Chow, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877.778.3623 ext 719 or lexi.chow@preservourlegacy.org
Tiffani Hilton, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877.778.3623 ext 704 or tiffani.hilton@preserveourlegacy.org
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March 31, 2011
As Finance Committee Co-Chair, Dais provides support to help register minorities For goal of 25,000 for 2011 on April 5, 2011 at Harlem Lanes
New York, NY – It was announced today Former BET Reality show cast member of Harlem Heights and recently elected Co-Chair of Preserve Our Legacy Finance Committee, Landon Dais will dedicate his 30th birthday to help raise funds and register minority donors on Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at Harlem Lanes, which is located at 2116 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd, #3, New York, NY 10027 from 6:30pm-8:30pm.
Landon Dais is the founder of Landon Dais Associates, a political strategy and community relations firm located in New York City. In this role, he oversees all business development, and strategic direction of the company. Landon is firm believer in giving back to the community and has been extremely active in his hometown, Harlem, New York. His commitment to the Harlem community was captured on the BET Docushow “Harlem Heights”. The show also chronicled his candidacy for City Council, his community service initiatives and his tenure as President of the Uptown Democratic Club. Landon is active on boards and non-profit committees and participates in many community and youth oriented programs across the country. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Co-Chair of the Finance Committee on the Board of Directors for Preserve Our Legacy.
Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit that spearheaded Jaden’s Law and educating individuals, especially minorities, about the benefits of stem cells and treatment options they provide through peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC), bone marrow and umbilical cord blood donation. Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. also partnered with Harlem Hospital in December 2010 to launch the Preserve Our Legacy Umbilical Cord Blood Program, which provides minority pregnant woman the option to donate their umbilical cord blood to assist in increasing the numbers for minorities within the National Registry. The organization recently announced their goal of registering 25,000 minority donors for 2011. These donors would provide thousands of minority patients that are in need, the “fighting” chance to live, especially, 10-year old LJ, 5-year old Nyiah, 13-year old Shakobe, 11-year old Isaiah and various other minority patients throughout America.
Since Jaden’s death, Preserve Our Legacy has been advocating to increase awareness about the need of minority donors, in addition to, having those that register to step up when called to help a patient. This event, which takes place during their 45-day awareness campaign, will assist in spreading the word about the need of minority donors. “Instead of having a big celebrity for my 30th birthday, I would rather organize a fundraiser for P.O.L. that will assist in saving the lives of young children, so they can reach their 30th birthday and beyond.” says, Landon Dais, Preserve Our Legacy Board member.
For event information log onto to: http://www.preserveourlegacy.org
For ticket information log onto: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1437996085
For more event or PR information contact, Shana, For PR contact Lexi, For donation contact Tiffani:
Shana Melius, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877-778-3623 ext 702 or shana.melius@preserveourlegacy.org
Lexi Chow, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877.778.3623 ext 719 or lexi.chow@preservourlegacy.org
Tiffani Hilton, Preserve Our Legacy, Inc. 877.778.3623 ext 704 or tiffani.hilton@preserveourlegacy.org
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