To save a life: bishop donates his bone marrow to a stranger

“Because of the life I have been given by God, I was able to give back and make a big difference in this person’s life.”

Inspiring: 

While they sometimes seem to be at opposite ends of the spectrum, generosity and thankfulness are more connected than they might initially appear. With a selfless act of kindness to a stranger, without expectation of repayment or recognition, a genuine spirit of giving is created. That spirit was genuinely present when [Corpus Christi] Bishop Michael Mulvey chose to participate in the Be the Match marrow registry. The registry connects patients searching for a cure with life-saving bone marrow donors.

“When I was assigned in Austin years ago, one of our very charitable and active parishioners was signing up people for Be the Match,” recalled Bishop Mulvey. “I appreciated her commitment and dedication to this cause, and after hearing more about the registry, I signed up.”

His decision to dedicate his bone marrow proved to be a moment that would resonate not only in his life but also, in the life he would save. As it happened, Bishop Mulvey was a perfect match for a woman with young children who had a form of blood cancer. After being contacted by Be the Match, arrangements were made for the bishop to go to San Antonio and undergo a peripheral stem cell donation, which saved the woman’s life.

According to Bishop Mulvey, going through this procedure to help another person was a humbling experience. “Knowing that because of the life I have been given by God – I was able to give back and make a big difference in this person’s life, in the life of her children and her family is something I have thought of quite often,” he said.

Although Bishop Mulvey has never met the recipient, he is very conscious of that person and gives thanks to God for being able to help.

Bishop Mulvey’s story is one that exemplifies the importance of giving. It underscores the constant need for individuals to learn more about Be the Match, so a more diverse group of people can be available on the registry.

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