Almost 9,000 people joined the stem cell donor register last week after an appeal went out through the family of a sick child.
Daniel Greer was diagnosed with leukaemia three weeks ago, and the disease is now spreading rapidly and aggressively. The 14-year-old's only chance of beating the disease is through a bone marrow transplant.
Paul Greer told Belfast Live of the pride he and his wife have for their son, who is fighting the disease with true inspiration. Doctors have told the Newry family that his diagnosis is fatal unless they can find an appropriate bone marrow donor.
Read more: 'Help us save our son': Parents' plea as child battles leukaemia
After issuing an appeal and awareness drive through the Northern Ireland media, DKMS has revealed that 8,826 people in the region registered with them in the last week to begin the process of becoming a donor. The organisation usually records around 5-10 new registrations in Northern Ireland per week.
Paul said they have been overwhelmed by the support of family, friends and strangers who read about Daniel's experience online, and have joined the resister.
He added: "We have had so many messages for Daniel, get well cards in the post and presents left at the door for him.
"It is phenomenal, the goodness that is in people and the offers of help from people from all over. Not only will this raise awareness of leukaemia, but the more people we can get registered with DKMS the better.
"The procedure is so simple and doesn't cost a thing. It will literally take seconds to put your name and contact details on the DKMS website and they'll send out an envelope with a swab and a test tube - you swab inside your mouth and pop it back into the free envelope.
"That then is the initial steps to potentially, not only saving our Daniel's life, but the lives of other's across the world.
"It could help others who are maybe sitting at the side of a hospital bed with their sick child knowing that the clock is ticking."
Please follow this link for information on how to register with DKMS and here for the NI Blood Transfusion Service.
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