Japan’s Bone Marrow Bank Inquiries Spike With Ikee Announcement

In response to the shocking news that Japanese swimming superstar and potential multiple Tokyo 2020 medal contender Rikako Ikee has been diagnosed with leukemia, Japan’s Marrow Donor Program says it has been inundated with donation inquiries.

Per The Japan Timesthe program stated yesterday, “We increased the capacity in a hurry.” The average daily number of requests for information via the Donor Program’s website previously stood at 5.6 pre-Ikee announcement, but has since risen to 270.

Although leukemia is primarily treated with anti-cancer agents, in some case, patients need transplants of stem cells that live in bone marrow. With approximately 3,000 patients in Japan registered and waiting for bone marrow donors, the program says the situation can still be greatly improved, as the proportion of patients who find matching donors and receive transplants stands at only 60 percent.

“We hope to gain cooperation from more and more people.”

Information on the equivalent national blood marrow donor program in the United States can be found here.

A day after revealing her diagnosis, Ikee took to social media to thank fans and fellow athletes for their words of encouragement and support.

“Thank you for a lot of messages since yesterday. It also makes me feel a little strange to see myself in the news. I will update everyone on the situation. I received messages from many people, such as, “I registered my bone marrow bank”, “I transfused, donated blood”. Not only for me but also for those who have a hard time in the same way, I really hope for you.

“God does not give us anything we cannot overcome. Of course, swimming life is important for me. However, I want to fight while supporting the people around me now, aiming for complete recovery, not being impatient.

“For a while, I may not be able to show everyone a cheerful figure. And for a while, I will also be on the sidelines cheering just like everyone else. . Thank you again for your message and cooperation from the bottom of my heart. I will definitely come back.”

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SUM Ting Wong
5 years ago

The young stars are Ikee Ruck & Titmus. This has virtually taken a big hit in interest in the 100 200 free 100 fly & Japan’s relay teams chances . Tokyo just won’t be the same .

Diet Coke Obsession
5 years ago

I am very very impressed with her very very mature attitude in such time like this. Only 18, a high school senior, who is at the top of her sports in the country and highly ranked in the world with some junior world record times. I know she ( snd ptobably her family) has sacrificed so much for her goals for Tokyo 2029 held in her native city.

Dee
5 years ago

With no exaggeration, Rikako’s diagnosis will save countless lives in Japan. Look and you’ll find some good even in the most tragic circumstances.

About Retta Race

Retta Race

Former Masters swimmer and coach Loretta (Retta) thrives on a non-stop but productive schedule. Nowadays, that includes having just earned her MBA while working full-time in IT while owning French 75 Boutique while also providing swimming insight for BBC.

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