#USA #New York #Labcorp #Hero Gum #DOUBLEMINT

Revolutionizing Marrow Registration with Hero Gum

The Gift of Life Marrow Registry has launched an exciting new initiative that combines fun and purpose. Hero Gum, in partnership with Labcorp and DOUBLEMINT®, aims to revolutionize the way individuals join the stem cell registry. This innovative approach turns a simple act, like chewing gum, into a life-saving opportunity for those in need.

The Initiative

On August 1, 2025, at the New York Mets' game against the San Francisco Giants, the Gift of Life team will introduce Hero Gum to fans. This unique donor registration kit pairs a stick of chewed gum with a scientifically proven method for DNA collection, making it easier and more enjoyable to join the marrow registry.

By chewing a piece of Hero Gum for just five minutes, potential donors can provide a viable sample for Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) typing. This step is crucial in determining compatibility for stem cell or bone marrow transplants, which are necessary for patients battling conditions like leukemia or lymphoma. It's a quick, accessible, and engaging way to participate in a life-saving cause.

A Clear Need for Donors

Currently, every three minutes, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with blood cancer, which leads to a staggering demand for stem cell transplants—around 20,000 Americans each year. Unfortunately, only 30% of patients find a match within their families. The overwhelming majority, 70%, must rely on the generosity of strangers listed in donor registries.

Marti Freund, COO of Gift of Life, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “For decades, we've aimed to make joining the registry more accessible, and Hero Gum is one of our most creative approaches yet. By transforming something as familiar as chewing gum into a potential life-saving action, we're engaging younger communities and broadening our donor base diversity.”

Scientific Backing

Labcorp has played a critical role in validating this initiative. According to Dr. Brian Caveney, Labcorp's Chief Medical Officer, DNA-rich cheek cells can reliably be collected from chewed gum and analyzed to identify important HLA tissue markers. The better the match, the higher the chance of a successful transplant and full recovery for patients.

Distribution and Availability

Hero Gum kits are designed for easy distribution at high-traffic events, college campuses, and community centers across the country. Alongside the live sports activation, these kits will be available through Gift of Life's website, starting July 23, 2025. This broad reach aims to lower barriers and engage a more diverse audience, highlighting the importance of every potential donor in the fight against blood cancers.

Conclusion

With the launch of Hero Gum, Gift of Life, Labcorp, and DOUBLEMINT® are reimagining how individuals can impact lives through marrow donation. This simple yet effective campaign not only spreads awareness about the need for donors but also encourages people to act through a familiar, enjoyable experience. By taking a few moments to chew gum, individuals can transform their everyday actions into significant contributions, potentially saving lives in the process. Together, we can turn the tide on blood cancers and inspire a new generation of donors ready to make a difference.

For more detailed information about the Hero Gum initiative, please visit Gift of Life.