In an inspiring display of unity and generosity, the University of Louisville Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) partnered with the Project Life Movement for the second consecutive year on October 18th, 2023. This collaboration aims to increase the pool of stem cell and bone marrow donors nationwide and, ultimately, save lives.
Taking place at the Student Activities Center and the Thorntons Academic Center of Excellence, students from the University of Louisville eagerly registered and underwent swabbing to be included in the nationwide registry. The SAAC has been a steadfast supporter of the Project Life Movement, adding over 200 students to the registry this year alone.
Reflecting on the fruitful partnership, Katie Fowler, the Campus Coordinator for Project Life Movement, expressed her gratitude for Louisville SAAC’s unwavering commitment and advocacy. She said, “Louisville SAAC has been an incredible group to partner with in our quest to build the stem cell registry. They have been amazing advocates for the work that we do, and we are grateful for their time and commitment.”
Hana Ryskova, President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, expressed her pride in joining forces with the Project Life Movement for another year. Ryskova stated, “We are very proud to partner with The Project Life Movement again this year. Our student-athletes are very committed to the cause and to this drive. We are very excited to help this cause and bring awareness to stem cell and bone marrow matching and donation.” The success of the initiative has been so remarkable that they have already planned to host another drive in the spring of 2024.
Ethan Meyer, the Vice President for Student-Athlete & Campus Engagement of the SAAC, shared his enthusiasm for the event. Meyer revealed, “Our goal was to get at least 50 students registered and swabbed during our drive, and we successfully hit our goal! The drive itself was an incredible experience, and it was great working with Katie!”
One of the student-athletes involved, Zach Cader of UofL’s cross country and track and field team, emphasized the simplicity and potential impact of the registration process. Cader mentioned, “The process was really simple, and it didn’t take too much time to register. It can have a major impact on someone that matches with you.”
For those seeking more information on Project Life or wish to schedule a registration drive, they can contact katie@projectlifemovement.org. The University of Louisville’s SAAC and the Project Life Movement’s partnership serve as a shining example of the power of collective action and the potential to make a positive impact on countless lives.
