Remember George: Give the Gift of Life

In a 90-day campaign launched in April, the APWU, the Postal Service and the National Marrow Donor Program took part in a nationwide marrow-registry drive, both to support the program in general and in the hopes that a donor-match would be found for George Goetschel, a USPS clerk and union member who in 2008 had been diagnosed with cancer. Sadly, George’s health declined this fall; he passed away on Nov. 8.

This does not mean that the dozen “Let’s Do It For George” events hosted by APWU Local and State organizations were in vain. Hundreds of names were added to the donor registry, and NMDP organizers believe that publicity for marrow drives always leads to more events being staged and countless other donors stepping forward.

There are more than 200,000 APWU members, and any one of us could be a match — possibly the only match — for someone whose life depends on it. Although George lost his battle, there are thousands of others like him who need a marrow transplant.

The odds against finding a match are high: Just 3 out of 10 who need a marrow transplant can be expected to get the life-saving treatment they need. The more people who join the registry, the better chance these people have of finding a suitable donor. You could be the match for someone.

The NMDP registration process is easy and absolutely painless — in most cases, you simply provide a "cheek cell sample.". The NMDP typically charges a fee (at an average cost of $52) to cover the expense of tissue typing, but under the Postal Service’s “Delivering the Gift of Life” campaign, there is no cost to potential donors.

All postal employees, their spouses, and dependents between the ages of 18 and 60 who have not previously joined the NMDP Registry and who meet the medical eligibility guidelines can participate. Check out the FAQS at www.marrow.org to learn whether you are already registered with NMDP. to

Once you determine your eligibility, contact your designated USPS District Coordinator to show your interest. If your postal district is not listed, send an e-mail to marrowcampaign@usps.gov.

According to the marrow-donor program, more than 6,000 men, women, and children search the NMDP Registry each day. If it turns out that you are a suitable match for a patient, you may be asked to donate bone marrow or circulating blood cells. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, you can be a life-saver.

Please visit these links to learn more about the procedure, and the importance of keeping your commitment if you have a chance to be a match for someone. APWU-represented employees who turn out to be a match for someone in need will be eligible to receive up to seven days of paid administrative leave to cover qualification and donation.

“Do It for George”

A 35-year employee of the Postal Service, mail processor George Goetschel was a proud member of the Terre Haute (IN) Area APWU. He was also a U.S. Army veteran.

George is survived by his wife Nancy, and three children. During his courageous 14-month struggle, he credited prayer, his family and the friendship of his fellow parishioners, co-workers, and other people in the community with keeping him going. According to Nancy, George felt that he was blessed, and he was truly appreciative of everyone’s efforts to help him and his family.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to: The Goetschel Family, 2227 First Ave., Terre Haute, IN 47803.