Margot & Vicki during her bone marrow transplant, 21 February 2014

“Stem cell / Bone marrow transplants themselves are surprisingly unremarkable events, which belies their vital significance.

The bone marrow itself looks very much like blood and the transplant process itself is no different from the way in which blood transfusions occur… Public awareness & understanding of bone marrow transplants is poor and the procedure itself is often widely misunderstood. So, one of the key reasons for publishing this video is to help dispel some of the myths. 

Margot slept through part of her bone marrow transplant, totally unaware of what was going on. There was no anaesthetic administered and you’ll note that it’s not an “operation”.

I wrote the above in this blog post on the first anniversary of Margot’s bone marrow transplant. Ever since her transplant on 21 February 2014, the date has become a moment in time when I tend to reflect on all that has happened, and also consider what lies ahead.

And in spite of the tragic negatives, the bad and sad, so much good & positivity has happened and been spread, thanks to you.

I’m addressing this post directly at you, because, whether you realise it or not, you ARE Team Margot, by virtue of your support & the actions you have taken. Your references to Margot’s story help spread the word.

It’s amazing because, as we have seen many times, simple conversations and actions can ultimately lead to life saving outcomes. 

We set up the charity, Team Margot Foundation 3 months after Margot died, in her name and to honour her legacy.   In context, my definition of ‘legacy’ is: a gift transmitted by a predecessor and this gift is one of life. Whilst you might not be eligible to donate your stem cells, blood or organs, that you have encouraged others to do so or have joined a register (regardless of whether you have actually donated), is your legacy in itself.

So, Margot’s legacy is your legacy too. 

Late last year the charity began working with Skylark Works on Team Margot’s impact philosophy and I’m pleased to share this with you in the attached images.

Subsequently, in conjunction with Oxford University, we launched an impact study, funded by the National Lottery which is currently underway. The impact study comprises a survey, interviews and collaboration with our “stakeholders”… you.

To everyone who has / is still taking part in this piece of work, THANK YOU SO MUCH AGAIN for your time & inputs, which will help the charity understand how it’s doing by listening to the people we work with and also those whose lives we are trying to save and improve.

Team Margot
Together, saving lives

Yaser

Husband to Vicki and father to Oscar (2007), Rufus (2008), Digby (2015), Humphrey (2017) & Margot (2012-2014)