An Emotional Patient-Donor Meeting| In 2004, Alex
was just 9 years old when she was diagnosed with severe aplastic
anemia. She needed an unrelated donor to have a potentially life saving
bone marrow transplant. In 1995 Darshana registered as a potential
donor to help save a friend, although she could not save her friend,
she was identified as match for Alex in 2004. She donated her marrow to
Alex in January. For the past 5 years they tried to reach each other
but somehow never connected. Recently, Alex found Darshana on Facebook
and asked her if she donated her marrow to someone called Alexandra.
Darshana responded to Alex right away and also called A3M to inform
that her recipient contacted her. We all were very happy for Darshana
and Alex and wanted to offer them the opportunity to meet each other in
person.
On October
18, 2009 that dream became a reality when Subha Ravindran of ABC 7,
invited Darshana, her two daughters and husband to the stage to meet
Alex and her family. As soon as Darshana saw Alex she started walking
towards her, they hugged eachther and broke into tears. It was a very
emotional experience for everyone in the room. |
 
Human Spirit Awards were presented to Bill Watanabe, Scott Momii and Laura Lee!
As the executive director of Little Tokyo Service Center, Bill was instrumental in establishing Asians for Miracle Marrow Matches. In 1991 Bill helped schedule donor registration drives in the search to find a donor for Sharon’s nephew, And more then than, he also invited a diverse group of about 25 people to LTSC, met with them every month, guiding the discussions toward an organized effort, so that ethnically diverse donors could join the national registry. Bills contribution to A3M and to the patients in need of donors is immeasurable. His nurturing encouragement, and his example continues to inspire people to participate in the effort to save lives. Bill was honored for his vision and support.
Scott Momii was introduced to A3M after helping the son of one of his friends, who needed a marrow transplant. He has been associated with A3M for well over a decade, contributing to its growth and development, to keep A3M moving forward with its mission.
Scott was among the original group of volunteers who rolled up their sleeves to put on the first A3M Starnight fundraiser in 1998. Scott was honored for his faithful and constant support, which has been long, wide, deep and heartfelt. He has inspired those whom he has introduced to A3M … to also be generous with their ongoing support.
Cerritos City Councilmember Laura Lee was elected to the Cerritos City Council in 2003, and was re-elected in 2007. She also served as mayor in 2007-2008. The Council member has been associated with A3M for the past several years. She is also a registered marrow donor. Her participation in press conferences has drawn attention to the urgent needs of patients in their searches for a chance to live. Whenever possible she has also involved local politicians, by conveying the importance of A3M’s work in the community and the potential city of Cerritos holds in assisting to increase the diverse data base of donors in the national registry. She is being honored today for her continued and unwavering support of A3M.
Chamsori: Freedom Sounds
Chamsori, or Freedom Sounds, is a Korean traditional drumming troupe from Koreatown, Los Angeles. An all-volunteer troupe, the members come from many different walks of life, including community organizers, teachers, social workers, doctors, and students. An energetic and passionate group of performers committed to learning and promoting traditional Korean folk art known as poongmul. Their energetic performance in the CCPA lobby and on the stage before the dinner in the Sierra room was a fitting opening.
Lea Salonga, the concert Inspired!
This year, Lea Salonga packed in the theatre for a sold-out show. Her electifying performance underscored her incredible talent and ability to maintain a devoted fan following. True to the title of her current tour, her set left the audience truly inspired!
Silent AuctionThis year's auction brought in much-needed funds for our Patient Support and Recruitment programs. Many thanks to all those who bid on and donated items, as well as the efforts of our dedicated volunteers. 
VIP's and other A3M Supporters
This year began with a lot of concern and speculation. Everyone in the community was struggling. Non-profit organizations had to make some tough decisions.
In our letter of request for sponsorship we said; often in the midst of difficulties, we rely on each other and have the power to lend a helping hand! And you did. We relied on you and you offered your support… for patients and their families. You help us to continue our mission of saving lives! You play a significant role in the lives of patients like Alex, who receive a second chance and are able to live a life full of possibilities and promise.
Many thanks to all our supporters, especially our platinum sponsors: 
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