Friedberger Josef Riebenbauer: Lifeguard for an Italian!

Friedberger Josef Riebenbauer: Lifeguard for an Italian!

An impressive history of humanity comes from Friedberg. Josef Riebenbauer, a committed citizen, donated stem cells for a man in Italy in mid -May this year. What is particularly noteworthy: Riebenbauer and the recipient share an identical genetic profile, which increases the chances of successful transplantation enormously. He describes the feeling of being able to help specifically as "indescribable" and encourages others to register as a stem cell donor. The association give for life - leukemiahilfe Austria supported this positive development since 1998.

The typing campaign, which led to Riebenbauer's donation, took place in Oberwart in 2020, and the goal was clear: for the leukemia, Lisa Schuh (today Jost) to find a genetic twin. Over 1,500 people were typed, the rubber was one of them. Unfortunately, the likelihood of finding a suitable donor is only 1 to 500,000 or less, which underlines the importance of such actions.

a call for registration

The numbers speak a clear language: In Austria, about 330,000 people have currently registered as a potential stem cell donor, which corresponds to a quota of 3.6% - an increase in the previous year. For comparison: Over 12% of the population are typed in Germany. Around 300 people in Austria are waiting for a stem cell donation every year, but no suitable donor can be found for about 10%, often due to a lack of registration.

The typing method is very simple and painless. Interested parties can either register on site or request a free typing set for at home. A cheek smear is sufficient to be included in the database. And the best thing about it? Registered donors remain in the database up to the age of 61 - so you can maybe save a life during this time.

The importance of HLA and the role of the association

Humane Leukocyte antigens (HLA) play a crucial role in the stem cell transplantation. The association Implemented donations - an impressive balance that shows how important such initiatives are. Riebenbauer will probably never meet the recipient in Italy, but through his donation he gives him a real chance of a future.