Community Rallies Behind Longtime City Engineer Facing Leukemia Diagnosis
The city of Newton, Kansas, is coming together to support Mike Headings, a dedicated city engineer who has served the community for over 26 years. Recently diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of leukemia, Headings is now in need of a stem cell transplant as his best chance for recovery. In response, the city has partnered with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) to find a matching donor.
A recent donor drive was held to raise awareness and encourage participation in the search for a compatible stem cell donor. Another event is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newton Rec Center, located at 415 N. Poplar. This opportunity allows community members to contribute to Headings’ fight against the disease.
Donating stem cells is a straightforward process that many people may not realize is simpler than they think. Erin McDaniel, communications director for the City of Newton, explained that the majority of donors can participate in a noninvasive, non-surgical procedure similar to donating plasma or platelets. “It’s very similar to donating plasma or platelets and a noninvasive, non-surgical donation process for the vast majority of donors,” she said. However, about 10% of donors may be asked to undergo a stem cell bone marrow transplant if they are found to be a match.
Registration for the donor drive is quick and easy, taking only a few minutes. It involves a painless cheek swab to collect DNA samples, which are then used to determine compatibility with patients in need. Healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 40 are eligible to register as potential donors.
For those who are unable to attend the in-person events, there are alternative options available. Individuals can request a free at-home test kit by texting “Hope4Mike” to 61474 or visiting my.nmdp.org. This convenient option ensures that even those with busy schedules can still play a role in helping Headings.
The community’s response to this cause has been overwhelming, with many residents expressing their support and willingness to help. The efforts of the city and local organizations highlight the importance of stem cell donations and the impact that one person’s decision to register can have on someone else’s life.
Stem cell transplants have become a critical treatment for various blood-related diseases, including leukemia. By increasing the pool of potential donors, the chances of finding a match for patients like Headings improve significantly. This initiative not only benefits Headings but also contributes to the broader effort of saving lives through stem cell donation.
As the next donor event approaches, the city of Newton continues to emphasize the importance of participation and education. Many people may not be aware of how simple it is to become a donor, and these drives aim to change that perception. Whether through in-person registration or at-home testing, every effort counts in the fight against serious illnesses.
The story of Mike Headings serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and compassion within communities. Through collective action and awareness, individuals can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As the city prepares for the upcoming donor event, the hope remains strong that a match will be found, giving Headings the best possible chance at recovery.
