72nd donor: "Most of our fears live in our heads"

In the Register of Pirogov University the 72nd donation of hematopoietic stem cells took place. The donor was Yulia Zalogina, an employee of the Department for Ensuring the Activities of Moscow Magistrates.

She was inspired to become a donor by her brother back in 2022, before that Julia had not even donated blood. This spring, she was informed that she needed a transplant for her baby. She immediately agreed and turned to her superiors for approval.

"The judge reacted skeptically at first, asking why I needed it. But when I said that it was about a child, and that I was a mother myself, there were no more questions," recalls Julia.

My husband was worried, but supported Julia: "He said: "I would go too." My family are doctors, they supported me right away. My colleagues are proud of me too. My daughter was worried at first that I wouldn't be home, but then she was happy for me. Even the new supervisor, whom I've only worked with for a day, treated me with respect and support."

The most inconveniences during all the procedures were caused by Julia having to sit without moving for a long time. It was not easy for a woman accustomed to activity. After the stimulation, pain appeared in the bones and chest, but painkillers helped. The donation itself took only four hours.

Having fulfilled her duty, Julia appeals to everyone who wants to become a donor, but cannot decide.: "Don't be afraid and put aside your doubts. Most of our fears live in our heads. It's easy to get scared if you read forums and unverified sources. But in reality, everything is much simpler: the main thing is to listen to doctors and trust the verified information."

Thank you, Julia, for her courage and kindness! Every donation is a hope for life.