Support legislation to protect bone marrow donors

A new effort is underway to remove a barrier in bone marrow and stem cell donations. When a donor is matched to a patient,, it’s unacceptable that their jobs be put at risk for taking leave for the process.

Congress must approve the Life Saving Leave Act (H.R. 7770,) which allows bone marrow and blood stem cell donors to take up to 40 hours of leave from work to save a life while protecting their jobs. It is unpaid time off, so there would be no additional cost for employers. This is a common-sense and fiscally responsible way to save lives. I ask Congresswoman Ashley Hinson to save the lives of more Iowans by co-sponsoring this bill.

Two of my daughters were matched to patients and successfully donated bone marrow and blood stem cells, saving two lives with their selfless decisions. Last month my 25-year-old grandson was matched and donated his bone marrow as well!

When passed, the Life Saving Leave Act will allow donors like my daughters and grandson the peace of mind that taking time off from work will not jeopardize their employment. The Life Saving Leave Act will remove one more hurdle for patients whose survival depends on these donors. It would be unimaginable to have to choose between saving a life or keeping your job to support your own family. No one should have to make that kind of decision. Lets remove that burden and pass the Life Saving Leave Act.

Mary Dickinson

Cedar Rapids