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In a poignant tale of hope and resilience, Sian Chathyoka, a 56-year-old mother from Swansea, faces a critical battle against myelofibrosis, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. With the daunting news that only one compatible stem cell donor exists globally, Sian is using her experience to highlight the urgent need for increased awareness and participation in stem cell donation programmes.
The Diagnosis and Its Impact
Sian, a former social worker and devoted mother of two, enjoyed an active lifestyle that included cold water swimming and managing her family campsite. Her world turned upside down when she began experiencing severe fatigue, which left her struggling to perform daily tasks.
“I’ve just been lying in bed because I’ve had no energy,” Sian confessed. Concerned about her sudden weight loss of 5lbs (2.3kg), she sought medical advice. Blood tests, followed by CT and MRI scans, revealed an enlarged spleen, leading to her diagnosis of myelofibrosis in September 2025.
“I couldn’t stop crying,” she recounted. “My condition is very rare—I’m the only myelofibrosis patient in Swansea and Cardiff. I’ve been told my disease is aggressive as well.” Despite the fear and uncertainty, Sian remains determined to focus on the positives.
The Search for a Donor
After her diagnosis, Sian underwent treatment aimed at reducing her spleen size, alongside weekly blood and platelet transfusions. The news of a matching donor brought a wave of relief: “I felt lucky and grateful that there is the possibility of a cure through a stem cell transplant.” However, she was taken aback by the general lack of knowledge surrounding stem cell donation.
“Many of my friends had no idea about it,” Sian shared. Her mission now extends beyond her personal battle; she is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of joining the stem cell register. “Health is wealth, and it is a luxury to be grateful for,” she emphasised.
Understanding Stem Cell Donation
Stem cells are unique cells capable of transforming into various types of blood cells, essential for treating a range of conditions, including cancers and genetic disorders. The NHS states that while most stem cells can be donated through blood donation at specialised centres, about 10% of cases require extraction from bone marrow via a hospital procedure.
The Anthony Nolan and NHS Stem Cell Registry, which includes organisations like DKMS UK and NHS Blood and Transplant, boasts over 2.3 million registered potential donors. Yet, the NHS estimates that each year, around 30,000 new stem cell donors are needed in the UK to keep pace with demand.
Sian’s Call to Action
Now, Sian is working closely with Anthony Nolan to encourage more individuals to consider signing up as donors. “Just signing up to the register, you can literally save a life. I feel really emotional because that’s as powerful as it is,” she expressed, highlighting the straightforward process of becoming a donor.
Rowena Bentley from Anthony Nolan affirmed the significance of Sian’s story in fostering vital awareness about stem cell donation. “Becoming lifesaver ready is easy,” Bentley noted, underscoring the simplicity of the registration process.
Why it Matters
Sian Chathyoka’s journey is a stark reminder of the critical need for stem cell donors and the profound impact a single individual can have on another’s life. Her advocacy not only shines a light on the challenges faced by patients with rare blood cancers but also serves as a rallying cry for society to respond to the urgent need for more registered donors. By sharing her story, Sian is not just fighting for her life; she is inspiring others to act, potentially saving lives in the process.
