Sign up to stem cell register

The MSP attended an event in the Scottish Parliament in support of the Anthony Nolan blood cancer charity which searches for lifesaving stem cell donors on behalf of patients in desperate need of a transplant.

The call came in response to Anthony Nolan’s new strategy for Scotland, which outlines ambitions to increase the numbers of potential stem cell donors and provide more support for patients.

People between 16 and 30 years of age who weigh at least 50kg and are in good health, can sign up to the stem cell donor register.

Ms Mackay said: “It’s fantastic to hear that 58,000 people in Scotland have signed up as potential stem cell donors. I’m delighted to say my staff member Alan Ferguson has just signed up to become a donor.

“The charity Anthony Nolan has set a target of recruiting another 10,000 people to the register in the next year, and it’s vital we meet that target to save the lives of more patients. I have no doubt that the people of Scotland will rise to the challenge.”