81st donor: "Joining the Registry is a natural step"

In September 2025, in the Registry of Bone Marrow Donors at Pirogov University the 81st donation took place. The donor was Margarita Ilyina, an oil and gas engineer who moved to Moscow from Novorossiysk.

Margarita found out about the Registry when she was looking for information about blood donation. Although it was not possible to become a blood donor then, she saw the opportunity to donate blood for typing and immediately took advantage of it.

"When you realize that something like this can affect your loved ones, joining the Registry is perceived as a natural step," says Margarita, whose decision was influenced by personal experience.: A friend's brother once needed a bone marrow donor. 

In the spring of 2025, she received a call informing her of the coincidence. "I agreed right away. If you can help, you need to help," she recalls.

The preparation and donation itself went smoothly. The doctors explained in detail all the steps in advance, including the possible side effects of the stimulation. The procedure itself took about three and a half hours. "I thought it would be more difficult. But in fact, everything went smoothly, the doctors were there and constantly monitored my condition," says Margarita.

She felt great support at work: the management provided a remote format and extended her vacation. Colleagues were actively interested in the process, and Margarita willingly told them about the donation.

"Everyone reacted with understanding. Many people asked questions, and I explained that bone marrow donation is not a big deal. Perhaps some of them will also decide to join now," says Margarita.

We would like to express our gratitude to Margarita for the hope and the chance for a new life for the recipient!

Find out where and how to join in the Federal Register.