The Slow Newscast The match: My sister and her new DNA
Sep 16, 2025
Brett Ratner, an American stem cell donor, shares his powerful journey of connecting with Nadia, a sister battling leukemia. He discusses the challenges of joining the donor registry and the intense emotional landscape of the donation process. The podcast highlights how receiving new DNA can alter personal identity, the unique experience of meeting Nadia and her family, and the bond formed through altruism. Ratner reflects on the significance of hope and connection amidst the complexities of illness and recovery.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bruise That Began The Whole Story
- Nadia first noticed a large unexplained bruise that triggered medical checks and a cascade of tests.
- That bruise led to the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia and immediate hospital treatment including chemo.
Hospital Life And Chemotherapy Routine
- Nadia underwent bone marrow tests and intensive hospital care soon after the blood results.
- Eva and the family lived through hospital routines, chemotherapy and moments that felt like 'hotel rooms' or 'morgue rooms'.
Why Ethnicity Matters In Donor Matches
- Matching donors for stem cell transplants depends on HLA genes, not blood type, making ethnic diversity crucial.
- Millions of HLA combinations mean many patients face inequality finding suitable donors within current registries.